The 35th edition of the New York International Bangla Book Fair, one of the largest celebrations of Bengali language, literature, and culture in the diaspora, is set to take place from May 22 to May 25 in New York City. The four-day event will be held at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, bringing together writers, publishers, literary enthusiasts, and cultural figures from around the world.
Organized by the Muktadhara Foundation, the book fair is described as far more than a commercial exhibition of books. It serves as an international cultural platform that embodies the identity, heritage, and traditions of Bengalis living abroad. For more than three decades, the event has created a strong bridge between writers and readers from both Bengals, while also inspiring younger generations to embrace Bengali language and culture.
According to the organizers, renowned economist and intellectual Professor Rehman Sobhan will attend as the chief guest. Popular author Imdadul Haq Milon will inaugurate the fair. Several distinguished guests are also expected, including Professor Dr. Rownok Jahan of Columbia University, acclaimed writer and cultural figure Faridur Reza Sagar, writer Lutfor Rahman Riton, and author Sadat Hossain, among others.
This year’s book fair is being chaired by eminent economist and researcher Professor Nazrul Islam, whose leadership is expected to further elevate the event’s organization and international standard. The overall coordination and execution of the fair are being managed by the Muktadhara Foundation, which has long been dedicated to promoting Bengali literature and cultural activities in the diaspora.
Organizers emphasize that the book fair has evolved into an annual cultural festival for Bengalis abroad, fostering literary engagement, introducing emerging writers, and creating a vibrant space for cultural exchange. They express confidence that this year’s edition will further expand and enrich this long-standing tradition.
On behalf of the organizing committee, Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed, Chairman of the New York Muktadhara Foundation, along with Convener Dr. Nazrul Islam, CEO of the Muktadhara Foundation Bishwajit Saha, Dr. Abdoon Noor, Rokeya Haider, Golam Faruk Bhuiyan, Rabbani Bhuiyan, Associate Convener Dr. Obaidullah Mamun, Murad Akash, and Dr. Fatema Ahmed, have extended a warm invitation to the Bengali diaspora, writers, publishers, and cultural enthusiasts to participate in this international gathering.
