CM Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates 49th International Kolkata Book Fair, Announces Permanent Landmark
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair on Thursday, marking a significant milestone for one of India's premier literary events. The fair, which runs until February 3, features participation from 20 countries, with Argentina serving as the focal theme country this year.
Global Participation and Record Sales
The event has attracted nations including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Spain, China, and Ukraine, showcasing their literary works in close proximity. Notably, China is participating after a 15-year hiatus, while Ukraine makes its debut appearance.
During her address, CM Banerjee emphasized the fair's cultural significance, stating, "This is the 49th Book Fair, meaning the countdown to the 50th has begun. You can say the Book Fair is our emotion, our culture, and especially it transforms into a world literature gathering. In India, the Kolkata International Book Fair is number one in the country."
She highlighted the fair's global popularity, drawing parallels with the Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany. "Last time, about 27 lakh people attended, and books worth approximately Rs 23 crore were sold. This time, we expect the figures to be even higher," she added optimistically.
Announcement of Permanent 'Boi-Chitro' Landmark
In response to a request from Tridip Kumar Chatterjee, General Secretary of the Publishers & Booksellers Guild, for a permanent landmark at the book fair grounds, CM Banerjee announced the 'Boi-Chitro' project. This ambitious initiative will feature a massive structure made of books and is slated to be unveiled during the fair's 50th anniversary celebrations.
"I have been conceptualizing this idea for 50 years but haven't had the time to complete it. It must be constructed with books. Rs 10 crore will be allocated to the Guild, but I require an official letter first," she explained, outlining the preliminary steps for the project.
Fair Details and Cultural Highlights
The fair spans 1,100 stalls and offers free entry to all visitors from 12 PM to 8 PM daily. CM Banerjee underscored the event's accessibility, noting, "There is no question of taking credit for this. It falls under our responsibility and duty because we don't use tax funds. It's entirely free."
She commended students from Techno India for their musical performance and extended a warm welcome to Argentine Ambassador to India, Mariano Agustin Caucino, who attended the inauguration. Argentine author Gustavo Canzobre highlighted the historical ties between Argentina and West Bengal, referencing Rabindranath Tagore's visit to Buenos Aires a century ago. "Argentina is the focal theme country for the first time, bridging 17,000 km with West Bengal through shared passions – football and Tagore's friendship," he remarked.
CM's Personal Reflections and Broader Messages
CM Banerjee expressed concerns about digital distractions but reaffirmed Bengal's enduring 'Renaissance spirit', driven by handwritten thought and intellectual curiosity. She also addressed personal financial matters, clarifying that her income stems solely from literary royalties, not government perks.
"My only income is royalty from my books. As a former MP serving seven terms, I could receive a pension of one lakh rupees per month, but for over 15 years, I haven't taken a single paisa from the government. Similarly, as Chief Minister, I don't draw a salary. I've returned crores of rupees to the government," she stated.
She further explained that she covers all expenses for her stays at circuit houses and hotels abroad from her pocket and donates proceeds from her art exhibitions to NGOs and charitable causes. "Even CBI investigations found no wrongdoing. I've never kept any money for myself; it all goes to help the poor," she asserted.
Conclusion and Invitation
Concluding her speech, CM Banerjee extended an invitation to the world to experience the book fair, emphasizing its universal appeal. "A book knows no geographical boundaries. It is everyone's life, pride, and respect, making a timeless contribution to education, culture, and literature," she said, encapsulating the event's spirit.
The 49th International Kolkata Book Fair promises to be a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and global connections, setting the stage for next year's landmark 50th edition with the upcoming 'Boi-Chitro' project.
