A walk through Boi Mela 2026

Crowds flocked to the Boi-Mela Prangan as soon as the 49th edition of the International Kolkata Book Fair was inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on 22 January.

Visitors were seen huddling over maps, as they navigated one of the world's largest non-trade book fair.

Many stalls had long queues outside as literary enthusiasts took their time to scan and select books inside. 

From youngsters choosing popular fiction titles to parents scanning education material for their children, the selection was varied. 

Being this year's country in focus, Argentina's pavilion has been a popular hangout for readers. 

Russia, France and Peru are among the 15 foreign countries that participated in the Book Fair this year. 

This striking installation outside Hachette's stall is one of the go-to selfie spots at this year's fair.

As always, the Guild House remains a popular meet-up spot for friends and family. The presence of the book fair's cute mascots has also made it another popular selfie spot. 

This cinema-themed set up represents Kolkata's appreciation of art and culture — books and beyond.

Musical performances, live art and craft creations, talks, signings and screenings livened up the event. 

Serpentine queues outside food kiosks, rivaling those outside book stalls, prove that no book fair outing is complete without some bhuri bhoj.

Whether it is to pick up your year's reading stash or get books signed by authors, make the most of the remaining days of International Kolkata Book Fair 2026.