The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

People from all walks of life lined up in front of Bangla Academy on Saturday to enter the 'Amar Ekushey Boi Mela'.

Youngsters gathered in groups while the fair was buzzing with enthusiasm, others milling around the colourful book and flipping through the pages at the stalls.

Children were also busy leafing through their favorite books of fairytales and kept the salespersons busy asking questions about their books of choice.

Writers were found discussing and sharing views at the 'Lekhok Kunja' while enthusiasts were patiently listening.

Talking to BSS, a number of publishers expressed their satisfaction over the sale of books this year.

Owner of the 'Agami Prokashoni', Arifur Rahman, said the sale of books in the fair is increasing every day.

According to the Bangla Academy public relations office, sale of books in the academy sales center was the highest, compared to the previous years.

The academy sales centre sold books of Taka 52,28,116 on the 22nd day of the fair while the amount was Taka 43,44,388 on the same day in 2007 and Taka 32,23,371 in 2006.

"I used to visit the fair every year. It gives me satisfaction to be around books and new publications," said Tania Tabassum, a DU English Department student.

"Visiting the fair gives a sense of belonging with our history and culture," she added.

A total of 81 new books, including 19 novels, made their way into the Bangla Academy Ekushey Boi Mela on Saturday.