CM Mamata Banerjee to inaugurate 49th International Kolkata Book Fair 2026 on 22nd Jan

The 49th edition of the International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) will be inaugurated on 22 January 2026 at 4:00 pm at the Boi-Mela Prangan, Salt Lake, by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Smt. Mamata Banerjee. The inaugural ceremony will be graced by Mr. Gustavo Canzobre, eminent author from Argentina, and H.E. Mr. Mariano Agustin Caucino, Ambassador of Argentina to India, as Special Guests of Honour, along with distinguished authors, dignitaries, and Hon’ble Ministers of the State Government.

Recognised as one of the largest book fairs in the world, the International Kolkata Book Fair 2026 will host over 1,000 participants, including national and international publishers, authors, and literary institutions. Approximately 20 countries from across the globe are expected to participate, reinforcing the fair’s strong global footprint.

Key highlights of IKBF 2026 include:

• Thematic Days:
  • Senior Citizens’ Day – ‘Chiro Tarun’ on 30 January 2026
  • Children’s Day on 1 February 2026

• Infrastructure & Design:
  The fairground will feature nine entry and exit gates, including two inspired by Argentine architecture. Gates will also be named in memory of noted personalities such as Prafulla Roy and Pratul Mukhopadhyay, while another gate will commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Sailaja Nanda Mukhopadhyay.
  The Little Magazine Pavilion will be named after poet Rahul Purakayastha, and the Mayukh Chowdhury Children’s Pavilion will mark his birth centenary.

• Cultural Tributes:
  The birth centenary of legendary cultural icons Salil Chowdhury and Bhupen Hazarika will be commemorated through cultural programmes and panel discussions on 26 and 27 January, respectively.

• Enhanced Connectivity:
  For the first time, the Book Fair venue will be directly connected by Metro services from Howrah to Karunamoyee and Central Park via Esplanade. Metro Railway authorities have increased service frequency, with the last metro operating until approximately 10:00 pm on all fair days. A dedicated booth within the fairground will allow visitors to purchase metro tickets via UPI.

• Digital Integration:
  An IKBF 2026 Android App, developed by Sister Nivedita University, will enable visitors to locate stalls using Google Maps. The fair will also maintain a strong virtual presence through its website and social media platforms. Sister Nivedita University is the Official Digital Partner.
  A digital ground map and participant list will be accessible via QR codes placed at all entry points.

• Visitor Services & Partnerships:
  • Peerless Hospitex Hospital and Research Centre Limited will serve as the Health Partner, providing medical assistance and ambulance services.
  • Meghbela Broadband is the Exclusive Broadband Partner.
  • State Bank of India is the Official Banker, offering full banking facilities, ATMs, and e-services at the venue.
  • HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company is the Official Insurer.
  • National Jute Board is the Green Partner of IKBF 2026.

• Engagement Initiatives:
  The popular daily lottery, “Buy Books and Win a Library”, will return, with winners receiving book gift coupons.

A major highlight of the fair will be the 12th edition of the Kolkata Literature Festival (KLF), scheduled for 24 and 25 January 2026 at the SBI Auditorium. Curated by Ms. Malavika Banerjee, KLF 2026 will bring together prominent voices from literature, culture, and thought leadership.

With its rich literary programming, enhanced visitor experience, and global participation, the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair 2026 is set to reaffirm Kolkata’s position as a global hub for literature, culture, and ideas.