The Amar Ekushey Boi Mela, one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated cultural events, will not be held this December as previously announced.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, in a notification issued on September 21, 2025, confirmed that the book fair has been postponed until after the upcoming national election. The decision came following recommendations from the Bangladesh Publishers & Booksellers Association (BAPUS) and other stakeholders.

Earlier, Bangla Academy had scheduled the 2026 edition of the fair to begin on December 17, 2025, adjusting the date due to the election and Ramadan. However, the new notification stated that, after further consultations with publishers and stakeholders, revised dates will be announced later.

Traditionally held in February to honor the spirit of the Language Movement, the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela remains a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s literary and cultural life.

MN/