Ekushey Boi Mela begins today

The month of February has gained immense significance for anyone in the world after 21 February was declared the International Mother Language Day. And for us the Bangladeshis the month brings a lot for celebrations apart from the ever-awake homage for the language martyrs of 1952. This is the month of our biggest book fair that offers us hundreds of new books along with the favourite old ones. The Bangla Academy premises remain vibrant with the enthusiasm of the book lovers for the whole month.

The scene has been different this year, as the fair could not start on its usual due to the occasion of Eid ul Azha. By now however all preparation has been completed.

Earlier on February 1 Bangladesh Book Club observed the Book Day like each year. The celebration began by placing floral wreaths at the Central Shahid Minar in memory of the martyrs of the Language Movement. 'Books for welfare'--having this slogan for this year's Book Day, the programme included poetry recitation, musical show, drawing competition for children, and hand-writing competition for people of all ages. Professor Rejaul Karim, State Minister for Liberation War affairs, inaugurated the celebration.