CHATTOGRAM, Feb 5: The Amar Ekushey Book Fair in Chattogram has failed to attract a significant crowd even on its fifth day. The 26-day book fair, held at the MA Aziz Stadium Gymnasium ground, began on February 1. Despite five days passing since the fair's commencement, there has been a noticeable lack of readers and low book sales. Stall owners remain hopeful that readership will increase in the coming days.
A total of 125 publications from Dhaka and Chattogram are participating in the book fair, with 140 stalls exhibiting and selling books. However, on Wednesday afternoon, it was observed that the fairgrounds were relatively empty, with many stalls still in the process of being decorated and arranged. Only a few stalls were ready and had visitors, while the majority were not crowded.
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair, organized by Chattogram City Corporation, typically begins after the first week of February each year.
However, this year's early start on February 1 seems to have caught many potential visitors off guard. As a result, there has been a lower initial turnout, although it is expected to increase gradually.
Many visitors were seen at the book fair on Wednesday, some arriving with friends and family, including children and teenagers. They explored the fair, browsing books by their favorite authors, and some were seen purchasing books.
Abdullah, a Southern University student, commented, "There was no class today, so I came to visit the book fair. I haven't picked up any books yet, but there's still time to see if I'll buy some of my favorites."
