'Amar Ekushey Granthamela', the largest book fair in Bangladesh, is closely linked to the cultural struggles of the people of Bangladesh.

The fair commemorates the Language Movement of 1952 that provided a momentum for cultural development in the country. The fair began in the post-Independence Bangladesh as part of the efforts to culturally awaken the nation.

The first Ekushey book fair was held under the open sky in 1972. In the following years a few publishers opened up stalls near the gates of the academy and received considerable public attention. As the number of visitors increased, Bangla Academy formally recognised the fair as 'Granthamela' (book fair) in 1978. In 1984, rules for the book fair were formulated and it was named 'Amar Ekushey Granthamela'. Ever since, the fair is held similarly as a national cultural event.

This year a total of 400 stalls have been allotted to 255 publication houses and some voluntary, government and non-government organisations. This year authorities reduced the number of stalls to provide the visitors more space to roam around on the premises.

Since almost all the notable publishing houses participate in this month-long book fair, almost any book that is published from Bangladesh is available at the fair. In all likelihood, over 1,000 new books will be on sale at the fair this year. The book fair also features old and valuable books.

'Amar Ekushey Granthamela' is not solely about books. Books may be the central point of the occasion but many view it as a venue for a light adda. Moreover, it also brings together writers, readers and publishers on a common platform. Prominent names such as Humayun Ahmed, Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Emdadul Haque Milon are regular visitors to the fair.

Little Magazine corner is another attraction for visitors at the book fair, especially the youth activists as the magazines contains works of experimental nature.

A number of innovative programmes, including discussions and cultural events, are being held everyday at the academy stage where eminent litterateurs and academicians take part.

A sculpture (made of bronze and terracotta) titled Moder Garab, by Mohammed Mafidul Alam Khan, containing busts of five Language Movement martyrs -- Rafiq, Salam, Jabbar, Barkat and Shafiur -- was unveiled at the Bangla Academy premises on the first day of the fair.

Chief Adviser to the caretaker government Fakhruddin Ahmed inaugurated the month-long fair on February 1.

The fair remains open from 3:00pm to 9:00pm everyday. However, on Fridays, the fair is open from 11:00am with a two-hour break from 12:00 noon. On February 21, the fair will continue from 8:00am to 9:00pm without any break. All books at the fair are sold at 30 percent discount.