The intellectual and literary legacy of Bengal Some new publishers sitting in Kolkata's famous 'Coffee House' started a book fair to develop the public's interest in books and to expand the publisher's business. Frankfurt book fair's successful example inspired them to arrange a fair like this. In1974, Mr Sushil Mukherjee played the role of president in Kolkata's first 'Boimela'. West Bengal's Education ministry organised the first Boimela. The organisation of this book fair was started on the initiative of many famous and well-known people. At present, various cultural discussions and debates are organised along with the sale of books on the premises of this book fair. The venue of this book fair has changed repeatedly due to various complications since birth. Although not at the beginning, the organisers started considering the idea for 'Theme' for the book fair later. The book fair has given theme status to different Indian states at different times. France participated in the book fair around the year 1997; after this, the book fair gained worldwide popularity. Famous for its ancient historical splendour versatile cultural environment, Kolkata offers an undeniable inextricable link between Kolkata's historical legacy and Boimela. Like the world's other metropolitan cities, Kolkata now has eye-catching book marketing outlets. Even Starmaker and Crossword could not divert Kolkatans attention from 'Boipara' College street. Not only that, book lovers from Kolkata still line up in College street's swampy alleys to buy old, rare gems at a discounted price! Popularly known as 'Boipara', this place is still an important bearer of the city's artistic and enlightening patrimony. In Boimela, the biggest collection of non-tradeable books all over Asia and a huge gathering of book enthusiasts take place each year. At the end of the winter season, Boimela is held every year. Many dignitaries from not only India but also from abroad participate in the Kolkata Book Fair. Apart from being a popular, well-known author for many new and anonymous writers and publishers, Boimela holds huge importance. Every year, musicians and folk artists from different places visit the book fair premises and perform. A lot of talented artists gather here to exhibit their art. In a nutshell, apart from books, the internationally acclaimed 'Boimela' of Kolkata witnessed a wonderful conglomeration of every kind of artistic expression and cultural harmony. Book lovers look forward to this fair all year round. Although due to the COVID-19 crisis, the book fair has not been held for the last two years, it will be held again in early March this year.
