Kolkata’s Bangladesh mission library expands with books on ex-PM Khaleda Zia

The historic Bangladesh Deputy High Commission library in kolkata has expanded its collection with books on former Prime Minister and recently deceased Begum Khaleda Zia.

Researchers and readers can now explore her life, political career, and contributions to democratic movements in Bangladesh.

The initiative was undertaken in response to growing interest among readers and scholars in West Bengal and neighbouring states in understanding Khaleda Zia’s role in Bangladesh’s democratic history.

The project was led by Tariq Chayon, Press Secretary at the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata.

Located on 3 Suhrawardy Avenue, Park Circus, the Deputy High Commission building is historically significant, with ties to former Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University Hasan Suhrawardy and the last Prime Minister of undivided Bengal, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy.

Tariq Chayon noted that the library already holds books on Bangladeshi literature, culture, history, law, agriculture, environment, education, and medicine, as well as biographies of prominent figures. However, upon taking charge in February 2025, he observed the absence of books specifically on Khaleda Zia. “There was not even a single book mentioning her name, nor a proper catalog to locate relevant materials,” he said. He personally organized the collection and created a dedicated “Bangladesh Corner” to provide readers with easier access to information about the country.

The new collection on Khaleda Zia includes books acquired through personal funding, private contacts, and publishers in Dhaka. Library officials believe the addition significantly enriches the Deputy High Commission library, making it a valuable resource for scholars and readers interested in Bangladesh’s political history.