Kolkata Book Fair Opens with Record-Breaking 2.5 Lakh Visitors on First Day
The 49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) kicked off with unprecedented enthusiasm as approximately 2.5 lakh visitors thronged the fairground on its opening day, setting a new benchmark for initial turnout according to organizers, the Publishers and Booksellers Guild.
Extended Holiday Weekend Boosts Attendance Prospects
This year's book fair enjoys a significant advantage with an extended four-day holiday weekend, including Friday for Saraswati Puja and Netaji Jayanti, followed by Saturday, Sunday, and Monday's Republic Day holiday. Guild officials are optimistic that this favorable timing, combined with direct metro connectivity from Howrah, will propel the fair to break all previous attendance records.
"If Friday's footfall is any indication, the book fair this time will break all previous records in terms of number of visitors," stated a guild official, highlighting the potential for historic turnout.
Vibrant Atmosphere with Diverse Crowd
The inaugural day, coinciding with Saraswati Puja, created a particularly festive atmosphere. Visitors ranged from school children and college students to elderly book enthusiasts, all converging at the fairground. The traditional celebrations added a unique cultural flavor, with many young couples visiting in traditional attire.
"Kolkata Book Fair is always special. It being Saraswati Puja today, several young couples—girls draped in red and yellow sarees and boys donning 'punjabi' dropped in. It was a different vibe," shared Arundhati Roy, a Salt Lake resident.
Previous Records and Current Expectations
Last year's edition attracted approximately 27 lakh visitors and achieved record book sales worth Rs 23 crore. With the current momentum and extended holiday period, organizers anticipate surpassing these figures significantly.
The fair continues through February 3, with another weekend ahead for book lovers to explore the extensive collection. Many visitors reported coming not just for book purchases but also to enjoy quality time with friends and family amidst the literary celebration.
Long queues formed at prominent publishing house stalls as the day progressed, demonstrating sustained interest throughout the opening hours. The combination of cultural significance, convenient access, and favorable timing creates ideal conditions for what could become the most successful Kolkata Book Fair in its 49-year history.
