A discussion meeting was held in New York on Saturday night (April 25, 2026) to ensure the successful organization of the “Bangabandhu International Book Fair 2026,” scheduled to take place on May 15,
16, and 17. The event was hosted at Eatzy Chinese Party Hall with the aim of promoting Bangla literature, culture, and the spirit of the Liberation War among the expatriate community.
The meeting was moderated by Gopal Sanyal and presided over by Nurun Nabi, president of the Ekattorer Prohori Foundation. It was attended by prominent members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, including cultural activists, journalists, organizers, and community leaders.
Among those present were recitation artist Mithun Ahmed, activist Syed Zakir Ahmed Rony, journalists Pinaki Talukdar and Md. Abdul Hamid, UN civil society representative Dr. M. Enamul Haque, presenter Swadhin Majumdar, recitation artists Munmun Saha, Farhana Ilias Tuli, and Zinat Nabi, cultural figure Professor Husne Ara, and singer Tahmina Shahid, among many others.
Speakers at the meeting emphasized that the “Bangabandhu International Book Fair” is not just a book fair—it is a powerful platform to introduce Bangla language, literature, history, and the spirit of the Liberation War to the new generation living abroad. The fair will feature books by renowned authors from Bangladesh as well as publications by expatriate writers, alongside special arrangements for children and youth, cultural performances, poetry recitations, panel discussions, and opportunities for direct interaction between authors and readers.
Organizers also announced several innovative initiatives for this year’s fair, including modern stall management, a digital book corner, new book launches, exhibitions on the Liberation War, and creative workshops for children—steps expected to add a new dimension to Bangla book fairs abroad.
In his remarks, Gopal Sanyal highlighted the significance of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, stating that “Bangabandhu represents our flag, our map, and our independence. He is deeply intertwined with the identity of the Bangla language and the Bengali people.” He also praised the initiative of the Combined Pohela Boishakh and Mangal Shobhajatra Celebration Council,
noting that carrying Bangabandhu’s portrait at the forefront of New Year processions abroad sets a unique example.
Speakers expressed deep respect and appreciation for such cultural initiatives, stating that they instill pride among expatriates and help preserve national heritage.
Some participants also touched on contemporary political issues, calling for action under international law against interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus over allegations related to constitutional violations and the destruction of the Liberation War Museum.
The meeting concluded with a collective call for full support from the expatriate Bangladeshi community to make the “Bangabandhu International Book Fair 2026” a success and to transform it into a vibrant gathering celebrating Bangla literature and culture abroad.
