35th New York International Bangla Book Fair Begins Celebrating Bengali Literature in Diaspora
The 35th New York International Bangla Book Fair, organized by the Muktadhara Foundation, is set to begin on May 22 at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center in New York City, bringing together four days of Bengali literature, culture, and intellectual exchange for the Bangladeshi diaspora.
The four-day event will run until May 25 at the venue located on Jamaica Avenue, Queens, featuring book launches, cultural performances, discussions, and tributes to prominent literary figures.
The fair will open with a traditional drum performance, followed by a cultural segment at the Lalon stage featuring songs such as “Aaj Dokhin Duar Khola” and “Baula Ke Banailo Re.” The official inauguration ceremony will be led by journalist and writer Imdadul Haque Milon, along with several distinguished guests from Bangladesh and abroad.
Veteran economist Rehman Sobhan will be honored with a lifetime achievement award during the opening night, which organizers describe as one of the most emotional highlights of the event.
The opening day will also include a documentary screening marking the foundation’s 35-year journey, followed by a solo musical performance by Shah Mahbub and a dance presentation by Nrityanjali.
On May 23, the second day will feature new book launches, literary discussions, children’s cultural programs, and a seminar on the Liberation War focusing on historical documentation and the role of women. The evening will include a staging of Rabindranath Tagore’s “Raktakarabi” directed by Shirin Bukul, along with poetry recitations and musical performances.
The third day, May 24, will highlight children’s art and writing competitions, celebrating Bangladesh’s national symbols and heritage. Special tribute programs will also mark the 127th birth anniversary of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The day will also feature literary awards recognizing outstanding contributions to Bengali literature.
The final day on May 25 will include storytelling workshops for children, discussions on artificial intelligence and creativity, folk music performances, and a closing ceremony featuring the national anthems of Bangladesh and the United States.
A notable highlight this year is the launch of a new travel book by Ibrahim Chowdhury Khokon, documenting journeys from Makkah to Marrakesh and across Kenya and Maasai Mara.
Organizers say the fair is more than just a book exhibition—it is a cultural bridge preserving Bengali identity in the diaspora and inspiring younger generations. The slogan of this year’s event, “More books, more life,” reflects its ongoing mission to keep Bengali language and culture alive abroad.
