3 publishers boycott July Uprising Book Fair, poor visitor turnout reported

The six-day 'July Uprising Book Fair 2025', organized at Bangla Academy and inaugurated on July 31, has drawn controversy as three publishing houses—Koli Prakashani, Kendrabindu Prakash, and Gyan Prakash—boycotted the event, alleging that stalls were allotted to publishers with opposing ideological views.

The protesting publishers claim that the inclusion of certain stalls contradicts the anti-fascist spirit of the July Uprising. Among the accused, they named Agami, Somoy, Anindya, Bhashachitra, and Nalanda as being "pro-fascist."

In response, Abul Bashar Firoz Sheikh, convener of the fair’s standing committee and director of the Bangladesh Book Publishers and Sellers Association, expressed disappointment over the boycott, stating that concerns should have been raised internally.

Meanwhile, the fair has seen a poor public response. On its second day, several publishers reported zero sales. Ahmed Faruk of Priyamukh Publication posted on social media that their total revenue so far stood at "zero taka." Others, including Jhingeful and Shikha Publication, echoed similar frustrations.

Despite participation from 60 publishers and official backing from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the fair has struggled to attract visitors. It remains open daily from 11.00am to 8.00pm, with discussion sessions on the July Uprising held from 4:30pm to 7:30pm.

The event will continue until August 5.