The 49th edition of the International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) 2026, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious literary events, will be inaugurated on 22 January 2026 at 4:00 pm at the Boi-Mela Prangan, Salt Lake, Kolkata. The opening ceremony will be presided over by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Smt. Mamata Banerjee, marking the official commencement of this globally celebrated book fair.
Adding international literary significance to the event, Mr. Gustavo Canzobre, acclaimed author from Argentina, and H.E. Mr. Mariano Agustin Caucino, Ambassador of Argentina to India, will attend as Special Guests of Honour, alongside eminent authors, cultural personalities, dignitaries, and senior ministers of the West Bengal State Government.
A Global Literary Platform
Recognised as one of the largest book fairs in the world, the International Kolkata Book Fair 2026 is set to host over 1,000 participants, including leading national and international publishers, authors, literary institutions, and cultural organisations. Participation from around 20 countries is expected, further strengthening the fair’s reputation as a truly global literary marketplace.
Each year, IKBF attracts millions of book lovers, writers, translators, academicians, and publishing professionals, making it a key platform for cultural exchange, intellectual dialogue, and global publishing trends.
Infrastructure, Design & Cultural Tributes
The fairground will feature nine entry and exit gates, including two gates inspired by Argentine architectural motifs, reflecting the international spirit of the event. Several gates will be named in memory of celebrated personalities such as Prafulla Roy and Pratul Mukhopadhyay, while another gate will commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Sailaja Nanda Mukhopadhyay.
The Little Magazine Pavilion will be named after poet Rahul Purakayastha, and the Mayukh Chowdhury Children’s Pavilion will mark his birth centenary.
Additionally, the fair will honour legendary cultural icons Salil Chowdhury and Bhupen Hazarika on their birth centenaries through special cultural programmes and panel discussions scheduled for 26 and 27 January 2026.
Enhanced Metro Connectivity for Visitors
For the first time, the IKBF venue will enjoy direct Metro connectivity from Howrah to Karunamoyee and Central Park via Esplanade, significantly improving accessibility. Metro services will operate with increased frequency, and the last train will run until approximately 10:00 pm on all fair days.
A dedicated Metro ticket booth inside the fairground will allow visitors to purchase tickets via UPI, ensuring seamless and cashless travel.
Digital Integration & Smart Navigation
Strengthening its digital footprint, IKBF 2026 will launch a dedicated Android mobile app, developed by Sister Nivedita University, the Official Digital Partner. The app will enable visitors to locate stalls using Google Maps integration.
Visitors will also have access to a digital ground map and participant list via QR codes installed at all entry points. The fair will maintain active engagement through its official website and social media platforms.
