The Amar Ekushey Boi Mela 2025 has taken on a new dimension this year, shaped by the impact of the July uprising.
Books centred on the movement have dominated the fair, drawing immense public interest. Writers, historians and analysts have published fresh perspectives on the uprising, making these titles one of the top attractions.
At the Prothoma stall, staffers speaking on condition of anonymity mentioned several new books on the uprising, including “Sheikh Hasinar Potonkal” by Dr Asif Nazrul, adviser for law, justice and parliamentary affairs.
Other notable titles, such as “July Gono Obbhuthhaner Shakkho”, “Chhatra-Janatar Obbhuthhan” and “Rashtro Sangskar” have also gained significant demand across all age groups.
Meanwhile, at the Agamee Prakashani stall, employees highlighted “Jokhon Bangabhabane Chilam”, a self-explanatory storybook by Brigadier (Retd) Shamsuddin Ahmed, former military secretary to the president, which had been restricted in previous years.
They also revealed that they are actively working on upcoming publications, including the novel “July Kaleidoscope” and analytical works such as “Fasibad O Bangladesh”, aiming to spotlight the evolving discussions on the uprising.
Another publisher, Procholon Prokason, said they initially printed only 300 copies of “Gonohotta o Bakshadhinota - 2024” of which 260 were sold within the first four days of the fair.
A staff member mentioned that the book has gained popularity across all generations.
It features photographs of martyrs of the uprising from 64 districts along with a detailed account of daily events from that period.
He added that even Information Adviser Md Nahid Islam and Sarjis Alam, two key figures of the July uprising, purchased the book on the first day of the fair and that it has high online demand on Rokomari.com.
They are now planning a reprint.
Visitor Mehrab Hossain said he visits the book fair every year, but this time feels different as he is specifically collecting books on the July uprising.
Meanwhile, one reader, Zainab Sultana, expressed her disappointment with author Zafar Iqbal, saying: "I was a huge fan of his, but after his role in the July movement, I am boycotting his books."
The fair has also seen the inclusion of books that were previously restricted, adding to the excitement among readers.
Additionally, a stall with mostly BNP-related books, Eti Prokashon, has been set up alongside other political publishers, reflecting a broader representation of ideas and viewpoints.
As in previous years, the official stall of the Liberation War of Bangladesh is also present on the Bangla Academy premises.
The stalls Tamralipi and Kingbodonty Publication have attracted massive crowds, as popular content creators Antik Mahmud and Mashfiq Enam Turjo have published books this year.
The fair features a dedicated stage for “Ami Lekhok Bolchi”, an evening program where authors engage in live discussions with readers.
Beyond purchasing books, visitors are also capturing moments with their favourite authors.
With significant changes, the Boi Mela is more than just a literary event this year—it stands out as one of the most dynamic editions in recent years, with the inclusion of July stories adding to its appeal.