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Everything You Need to Know About Asia's Biggest Book Fair: Kolkata International Book Fair 2025

Get ready for a cultural journey at the Kolkata Book Fair 2025! A world of books from 1000 international stalls awaits with surprises and unforgettable experiences at every turn.

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Everything about  Kolkata International Book Fair

Are you planning to visit Boi Mela in Kolkata (the International Book Fair) this year? Then, you have to know exactly what to expect at one of Asia's largest and most exciting book fairs! And don’t worry if you’re visiting for the first time; we’ve got you covered! Bookmark this ultimate Kolkata International Boi Mela 2025 guide, and get ready to dive into a world of books, culture, and nostalgia.

What is the International Kolkata Book Fair (BOI Mela)?

If you’re a book lover, then the Kolkata International Book Fair (Boi Mela) is not just an event; it’s a celebration. It’s an annual literary extravaganza that brings together publishers, authors, and readers from across the globe. Held in the heart of Kolkata, the book fair is one of the largest of its kind in Asia and a massive attraction for bookworms of all ages. Since its inception in 1976, the fair has grown in leaps and bounds, evolving into a place where not just books but cultures and ideas meet. The event takes place at the Boimela Prangan in Salt Lake, Kolkata, and for 2025, it’s set to take place from January 28 to February 9. This year’s theme? Germany! For the first time, Germany is the theme country, so expect to explore its rich literary heritage through special exhibits and performances. But it’s not just the books that make the fair unforgettable. The Boi Mela is a perfect blend of the literary world with cultural activities, including lively discussions, book launches, musical performances, and the sweet aroma of delicious food wafting from the food court. Whether you're a long-time book lover or someone visiting for the first time, there's something here for everyone. 

Why is the Kolkata International Book Fair So Famous? 

Everything about  Kolkata International Book Fair

Boi Mela is an emotion for anyone who has lived in Kolkata, whether they are Bengali or not. Visiting the Boi Mela is a cultural loop, a journey that starts with a child’s excitement, holding their parent’s hand, and exploring towering bookstalls filled with vibrant covers for the first time. Then, as a teenager, you visit with friends, the hours passing by in a blur, and you experience the thrill of meeting your favourite author or singer for the first time. As an adult, you return to the fair, this time with your children, and relive those childhood memories, passing on the love of books and culture. It’s a thrill that only a true book lover would understand. That, my friend, is the power of the Kolkata International Book Fair. It’s not just a place for buying books; it’s a place where memories are made. The International Book Fair was previously held at the Maidan, a large urban per in Kolkata the fair moved in 2009 to the Milan Mela near Science City on EM Bypass, and now it is held at Boimela Prangan, Salt Lake, Kolkata, the fair more than just a market for books, it’s a cultural haven that brings together people from every corner of the world. From January 28 to February 9, 2025, book lovers can stroll through 1,000 stalls representing publishers from 20 countries. 

Boimela Prangan

Expect to meet famous authors, graphic novelists, and poets, including those from the theme country, Germany. Authors from the USA, Great Britain, France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, and Latin America, Bangladesh countries will be there too. But the book fair isn’t just about books – it’s a cultural festival. You’ll find folk singers like Baul singers performing, making it a delightful cultural experience. From literary discussions to book launches, the fair is brimming with events that will make your literary heart race.

Best stallls in boi mela 2025 2

And what’s more? The Little Magazine Pavilion and Children's Pavilion bring their own set of treasures. The Little Magazine Pavilion, dedicated to the avant-garde and independent publications, is the heartbeat of the fair for those who love niche literature. The Children's Pavilion, on the other hand, is a dream come true for young readers, offering a space filled with illustrated stories and kid-friendly books that will spark their imaginations. And let’s not forget about food! Whether you're a fan of Bengali sweets, street food, or international cuisine, the food cart area has something for everyone. You can grab a bite between book hunting and cultural activities, making sure your taste buds get as much attention as your literary appetite.

A Walk Through Nostalgia

boi mela 2025

With over 27 lakh visitors attending the fair last year, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the magic of the Kolkata Literature Festival. Whether you’re a book lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for an exciting way to spend your day, the Kolkata Book Fair has something for everyone. So, mark your calendars from January 28 to February 9, 2025, and make sure to visit Boimela Prangan in Salt Lake, Kolkata.

Where: Boimela Prangan, Salt Lake, Kolkata

Time: January 28 to February 9 2025, 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

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