The book fair, organised by the Bangla Academy and the Bangladesh Book Publishers and Sellers' Association, marking the Language Movement, run during the month of February. The fair was named Amar Ekushey Granthamela in 1984.

Ekushey Book Fair had something new to offer everyday with a number of eminent poets, writers, novelists, dramatists, actors and actress, artistes, painters as well as other distinguished personalities gathering at the venue making it a focal point for everyone-- young and old.

The visitors were seen browsing through the stalls of their choices at the fair. The fair was divided into four zones-- commercial publishing houses, children's books, publications of socio-cultural organisations, NGOs and other organisations. Only books written, edited or translated by Bangladeshi writers were included in the stalls.

A number of innovative programmes included discussions and cultural programmes focusing on the literary personalities of the 20th century at the main stage every day. The academy set up a writers' corner.

A survey of different stalls reveal that Holud Himu Kalo Rab by Humayun Ahmed and Duswapner Jatri by Anisur Rahman sold well, compared to other books. The most popular novels were Lilua Batash and Chayaleen. Amader Boimela, a compilation of works by late Humayun Azad also sold well. Samoy Prakashon launched a new book titled Nodi O Chashir Golpo by Abdullah Abu Sayeed.

Bangladesh Asiatic Society introduced visitors to some good books. The Banglapedia CD also sold well. Mela Publications said that a book for children titled Raj Dorbarer Shial Pandit and a book of rhymes Cholo Jai Chhorar Deshe have received a good response from children.

An attendant of the stall Jatir Jonok Bangabandhu Memorial Trust, Alauddin Shagor said, "Books on Liberation War were in great demand. Besides that, a collection of photographs on Liberation War, highlight images of destruction and brutality. Itihasher Moha Nayak by Motahar Hossain Sufi has received good response from buyers."

The Liberation War Museum (LWM), Dhaka in a big stall displayed several books and photo albums on the Liberation War. The museum encourages preservation of Liberation War memorabilia. LWM also aims to educate the new generation with history of independence, so that, they are proud of their motherland and imbued with the spirit of patriotism and liberal democratic ideas. In the stall, a letter to Bangabandhu from a Birangona's (victim of Liberation War) father drew considerable attention.

Till yesterday the book fair was abuzz with activities and crowds lined up to satiate their literary taste. Today the vacant Bangla Academy premises will miss the hustle bustle until the next Ekushey Book Fair.