The 48th International Kolkata Book Fair will take place from January 28 to February 9, 2025, with Germany as the focal theme country, showcasing its cultural and literary heritage.
Guild president Tridib Chatterjee noted that the fair, first held in 1976, was inspired by the Frankfurt Book Fair, where many founding members regularly attended. Over time, Frankfurt’s representatives have visited Kolkata, strengthening cultural ties.
The guild’s general secretary Sudhangshu Dey, highlighted their participation in the Frankfurt fair, particularly in 1984 and 2006, when India was the theme country.
Astrid Wege of the Goethe Institute and Simon Kleinpass, Vice Consul of Germany in Kolkata, expressed pride in Germany’s role as the focal country, aiming to strengthen cultural ties.
The fair will be inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Central Park, Salt Lake, with countries like the UK, USA, France, Italy, Spain and several Latin American nations participating, along with many Indian states as well.
