The 2025 edition of the Chennai International book Fair (CIBF) recently concluded at the Nandambakkam Trade Centre, marking a significant milestone in the world of literature and translation. On the final day, the fair witnessed the signing of 1,125 Memorandums of understanding (MoUs) for translations, further cementing its reputation as a key platform for global literary exchange. Of the MoUs signed, 1,005 were for translating Tamil works into foreign languages, while 120 MoUs were signed to bring foreign literature into Tamil. This year’s event saw a notable increase in participation and activity compared to previous editions. In its inaugural edition, 24 countries took part, with 365 MoUs signed. By the second year, that number rose to 40 countries and 750 MoUs. Building on this momentum, the Directorate of School education set an ambitious goal of exceeding 1,000 MoUs in 2025, which was successfully achieved. The fair was supported with a government budget allocation of RS 3 crore.
We remember the historical connection between Tamil Nadu and Italy—a relationship that dates back over three centuries, when the Italian Constantine Joseph Beschi compiled the first Tamil lexicon. This enduring bond highlights a legacy of dialogue, mutual learning, and respect for our shared linguistic and cultural traditions
Elena Pasoli,
Director, Bologna Children’s Book Fair
On the final day, the event saw the participation of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, alongside special invitee Shashi Tharoor. During the closing ceremony, the Chief Minister released 30 translated books and 75 publications from the Tamil Nadu Textbook and educational Services Corporation (TNTB&ESC), further showcasing the state’s commitment to promoting literature and education. This year’s fair also saw a significant international presence, with over 60 countries participating, including Australia, Benin, Brunei, Bulgaria, Chile, Cyprus, Estonia, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kazakhstan, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Norway, Taiwan, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Togo, Ukraine, the USA, Uzbekistan, and Zimbabwe.
In addition to the bustling exhibition and book displays, the fair featured several engaging panel discussions that covered a wide range of literary topics. Notable sessions included discussions on ‘Thirukkural,’ the ‘universality of Periyar Thoughts,’ trends in publishing and translation of Dravidian literature, and ‘Taking Tamil to the World: Swadeshi Steam and Other Historical Tales.’ The event also explored ‘a Comparative etymological Dictionary of Tamil and Indo-European Languages,’ reflecting the fair’s broad intellectual reach. The Chennai International book Fair continues to grow as a vital cultural event, fostering cross-cultural literary dialogue and reinforcing Tamil Nadu’s position as a global hub for literature, education, and translation. With its expanded global participation and ambitious goals, the CIBF is set to remain a premier platform for literary professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.