Kolkata Book Fair 2027: ‘Vande Mataram’ to Be Central Theme of 50th Edition

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Wed, Sep 09, 01:33 AM IST • 2 min read

The 50th International Kolkata Book Fair will be held from January 22 to February 3, 2027, with organisers planning one of the most culturally significant editions in the fair's history. Marking half a century of the globally renowned literary event, the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram is set to become the central theme of the celebration.

The announcement signals that the golden jubilee edition will go beyond books, bringing together literature, history and Bengal's cultural legacy through a series of commemorative programmes.

‘Vande Mataram’ to Anchor the Golden Jubilee Edition

The organisers' advisory board has proposed making the 150th anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's Vande Mataram the defining theme of the 2027 fair.

The song, first published in 1877 and later becoming one of India's most influential patriotic compositions, is expected to feature prominently through exhibitions, discussions and cultural events throughout the fair.

Israel Proposed as Theme Country

The advisory board has also recommended Israel as the Theme Country for the 2027 edition, describing it as a friendly nation. However, the proposal is yet to receive final approval, and the official announcement is still awaited.

Cultural Milestones to Shape the Fair

Beyond Vande Mataram, the landmark edition is expected to honour several important anniversaries that have shaped Bengal's literary and cultural identity.

The proposed commemorations include:

  • The legacy of Partition
  • The Bengal Renaissance
  • 100 years of Uttam Kumar
  • 200 years of Rajnarayan Basu
  • 100 years of Rabindranath Tagore's Raktakarabi

These themes are expected to be reflected through curated exhibitions, literary sessions, performances and special commemorative programmes.

Technology May Transform Fair Operations

Organisers are also considering introducing digital upgrades to improve visitor and exhibitor experiences.

The proposals include:

  • Automated stall allocation
  • Digital financial transactions
  • Streamlined operational processes

If implemented, these changes could modernise the management of one of the world's largest public book fairs.

Bangladesh Participation Yet to Be Decided

The participation of Bangladesh, a longstanding presence at the Kolkata Book Fair, remains uncertain for 2027. Organisers have indicated that the decision will depend on the position taken by the Union Government.

A Landmark Edition for Kolkata

As the International Kolkata Book Fair enters its 50th year, the 2027 edition is expected to celebrate not only literature but also Bengal's enduring cultural heritage. With Vande Mataram at its heart and multiple historic anniversaries on the agenda, the fair is shaping up to become one of Kolkata's biggest cultural events of the year.