The first Friday of this year’s book fair was yesterday. As I stepped out of the metro rail, I was met with a long queue at the entrance, a testament to the excitement surrounding the event. With anticipation, I joined the line and, after a thirty-minute wait, finally entered the beloved fair. As part of my news coverage, I explored the entire venue, soaking in the lively atmosphere. The crowd was significant, and in front of Itadi Granthaprakash, I met Rudra, a college student carrying a bag full of books. When asked about his reading preferences, he said, “I enjoy novels and short stories the most and read them frequently.”

For publishers, this Friday was a long-awaited day, as weekends attract families and book lovers who get a break from their busy schedules. Their expectations were met with a bustling crowd, eager readers surrounding stalls and pavilions, and the joyous sight of people leaving with their favorite books. The seventh day of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair was truly vibrant. It was also the fair’s first Shishu Prohor (Children’s Hour), running from 11 AM to 1 PM. As soon as the gates opened, the atmosphere transformed, with young readers eagerly picking out books with their parents. The children’s section was filled with laughter, excitement, and the charm of kids insisting on their favorite books. Popular choices included cartoons, comics, drawing books, fairy tales, and other engaging reads.

During this special hour, I met Abdul Hai and Jannat, a couple from Noyanagar, Jatrabari, who brought their two daughters, Sumaiya and Mariya. They shared, “In this digital age, when kids are drawn to mobile screens, we make sure to put books in their hands. Everyone should encourage children to develop a love for reading.” When asked about their favorites, Sumaiya and Mariya excitedly said, “We love cartoon books and Thakurmar Jhuli.” Almost every child in the section carried books in their hands.

After the lively morning dedicated to children, the afternoon saw an influx of older readers. Publishers sensed early signs of success as book sales surged. The momentum continued into the evening, with readers filling stalls and pavilions. The enthusiasm among publishers was evident. Mashiur Rahman, owner of Srijoni Prokashoni, stated, “Friday was exactly what we hoped for.” Javed Iman of Muktodesh Prokashoni added, “If this sales trend continues, we anticipate a successful fair.” Similarly, Monirul Haque of Ananya Prokashoni expressed satisfaction, saying, “Sales exceeded expectations. Compared to previous first Fridays, this year’s crowd and sales were higher.” He remained optimistic about a more successful fair if conditions remained stable.

In the early evening, I visited the Puthi Prokash stall and met author Jamir Uddin Milon, who was signing copies of his motivational book Chinta Theke Joy. Discussing this year’s fair, he remarked, “With the fall of fascism, the book fair has transformed from an authoritarian-controlled event into a participatory one. It feels great.” On why his book resonated with readers, he explained, “People seek something new. Motivational books appeal to young readers in a way that few other genres do. My book addresses psychological struggles and solutions, which is why it’s catching attention.”

On the seventh day of the fair, 184 new books were released, bringing the total to 454 since the event began.

Meanwhile, Cultural Advisor Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, while visiting the China Book Stall at the fair’s Bangla Academy premises, commented that the government strongly opposes mob justice and is working to prevent such incidents. Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, also present, mentioned China’s ongoing efforts to support Bangladesh’s healthcare sector, including hospital construction. Additionally, both countries are collaborating to publish ten books jointly next year.

Among the cultural events, a children’s drawing competition was held at 8:30 AM in the Bangla Academy premises, inaugurated by Dr. Abdus Sattar of Dhaka University’s Oriental Art Department. The contest had 750 participants across different categories. A children’s recitation competition followed at 10 AM, with 433 young contestants. Judges included Dr. Tariq Manzoor, Professor Shaila Ahmed, and recitation artist Shafiqul Rahman Bahar.

At 4 PM, the main stage hosted a discussion titled Golam Morshed Pat in the Mirror of Cultural History, presented by Samjir Ahmed. Panelists included Swarochoish Sarkar and Gazi Md. Mahbub Morshed, with Morshed Shafiul Hasan presiding. The discussion highlighted Golam Morshed’s pioneering role in Bangladesh’s cultural history studies, emphasizing his ability to bring overlooked narratives into focus. His interdisciplinary approach and biographical historiography made his work exceptional in both literary and historical research.

At the July’s Story Stage, dedicated to remembering the martyrs of the 2024 July Uprising, anti-discrimination student movement leader Hasnat Abdullah spoke, with journalist Zubair Ibn Kamal hosting. Writers Iktija Ahsan and Mridul Mahbub discussed their latest works, while poets Ismat Ara and Muhammad Ismail recited poetry. The cultural segment featured performances by Ariful Hasan, Afroza Parveen, and Matir Sur Sangeet Parishad, with singers including GM Zakir Hossain, Tanjina Karim Swaralipi, Maksudur Rahman Mohit Khan, Champa Bonik, Murshida Nahid, and Shahnaz Rahman Swikriti.

The first Friday of the fair delivered on expectations, setting a positive tone for the days ahead.