Sales low despite high turnout

The Amar Ekushey Book Fair became noticeably livelier on its third day, with crowds swelling across the Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan premises, particularly in the afternoon. However, publishers said sales failed to meet expectations on Saturday.
After two relatively quiet days – largely attributed to the holy month of Ramadan – the fair gained momentum from around 3 pm as visitors arrived in greater numbers. Entry points near TSC, Doel Chattar and the Engineers Institution saw steady streams of families, groups of friends and young couples. Children and teenagers were also prominent, lending a festive atmosphere reminiscent of previous years.
Despite the increased footfall, publishers said browsing has not translated into purchases. Zahed, an employee of Akkhar Publication, noted that many visitors pick up several books but leave without buying. “There are more people to see, less people to buy,” he said.
Abid A Azad of Creative Dhaka Publications expressed concern over costs, citing expenses for stall construction, decoration and staffing. “People are coming, walking around and taking pictures, but not buying books,” he told the Daily Sun.
Wasim Haque of Chayan Publication, however, remained optimistic, saying readers often browse early and buy in bulk later. “There is still time,” he added. Readers echoed this view. Anisa Mehrin from Farmgate said she usually explores new releases in the first week and purchases towards the end.
The children’s playground on the Bangla Academy side was among the most vibrant areas. From 11 am to 1 pm, a special children’s hour featured drawing and recitation competitions and a puppet show by Kaktaduwa Puppet Theater. Masuma Airin, visiting from Basabo with her two children, praised the colourful books and performances, though the heat was uncomfortable.
While most stalls are operational, some infrastructure work remains unfinished, organisers said, adding it would be completed soon. Due to the nearby metro rail station, exit routes have been adjusted and multiple gates arranged. Prayer spaces, washrooms and medical services are now operational.
On Saturday, a discussion titled “Remembrance: Ahmed Rafiq” was held at the main stage, chaired by Mansur Musa. Ismail Sadi presented the keynote, with Mostafa Tarikul Ahsan as discussant. Ahmed Mazhar discussed his new books at the Lekhok Bolchi stage.
Today, the fourth day, a discussion on “Remembrance: Hamiduzzaman Khan” will be held at 3 pm. Nasimul Khabir will present the keynote, while Ivy Zaman will participate. The session will be presided over by Lalarukh Selim.