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Pens over power: 49th International Kolkata Book Fair to bring Russia, Ukraine ‘together’; Argentina named theme nation

Starting Thursday, the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) will see the participation of several countries, including Germany, UK, France, Australia, Peru and Nepal.

2 min readKolkataJan 20, 2026 03:46 PM IST

The logo of the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair was unveiled in November. (Express/File photo)

As the four-year-old conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to draw worldwide attention, the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) is set to offer a rare, peaceful intersection for the two warring nations. From Thursday, the Salt Lake Central Park ground will witness a historic first: Ukraine making its debut at the world’s largest non-trade book fair, alongside regular participant Russia.

“Books are, after all, the world’s most genuine friend,” one of the event’s organisers said. The fair will host literature from 20 countries, inviting readers to explore Ukrainian art and culture for the very first time in the city.

This year’s theme country is Argentina, the land of football icons Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. Given Bengal’s legendary passion for the sport, the theme pavilion is being designed in a vibrant blue-and-white palette.

Two of the fair’s nine gates are being modelled after ancient Argentine architecture. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will inaugurate the event, likely in the presence of Mariano Caucino, Argentina’s Ambassador to India, and renowned literary figure Gustavo Canzobre.

However, like last time, there will be no Bangladesh pavilion, nor will there be one for America, which is usually a very popular pavilion at the Kolkata Book Fair. In 2011, the theme country was the US.

A host of other countries, including Germany, the UK, France, Australia, Peru, Nepal, and several Latin American nations will be present at the fair which will last till February 3. Australia, which was absent at the last fair, will be present this year. The fair ground is expected to be dominated by various hues of blue, with the national flags of Argentina, Russia and Ukraine prominently bearing the colour.

One of the organisers of the fair said, “We want all the countries to mingle at the book fair, increasing the exchange of books, culture, and pictures.”

49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF)

Date: January 22 – February 3, 2026

Theme country: Argentina

Debut participant: Ukraine

Notable absentees: Bangladesh, USA

Returning nation: Australia

Sweety Kumari

Sweety Kumari is a seasoned journalist reporting from West Bengal for The Indian Express. With over a decade of experience in the media industry and eight years specifically with The Indian Express, she demonstrates considerable Expertise and Authority across a diverse range of critical beats. Experience & Authority Current Role: Journalist, The Indian Express, reporting from West Bengal. Extensive Tenure: Over 10 years of experience in the media industry, with a long association (8 years) with The Indian Express, contributing to a high level of Trustworthiness. Diverse Coverage: Covers crucial beats including Crime, Defence, Health, and Politics, alongside writing on trending topics. Investigative Focus: Possesses a keen eye for investigative and human-interest stories, demonstrating depth and skill in impactful journalism. Beat Versatility: Has honed her craft across diverse beats, including aviation and reporting on various incidents, ensuring well-rounded and comprehensive reportage. Career Start: Began her journalistic journey as an Entertainment and lifestyle journalist with a news portal in Kolkata, providing a foundational understanding of media landscape and audience engagement. Education Advanced Education: Holds a PG in Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, equipping her with advanced media theory and skills. Undergraduate Education: Holds an Honours degree in Journalism from Jaipuria College. Multilingual Skill: Her fluency in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili enhances her reach and capability to connect with diverse sources and communities in the region, adding a layer of accessibility and authenticity to her reporting. Regional Roots: Originally from Bihar, she was brought up and educated in Kolkata (Kendriya Vidyalaya Salt Lake), giving her a deep, personal understanding of the cultural and political nuances of her reporting region. Sweety Kumari's combination of significant experience, specialization in key beats like Crime and Politics, and strong academic background makes her a trusted and authoritative contributor to The Indian Express. ... Read More

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