The book craze starts…

Boi Mela is not just a mela: it is definitely more than that. We know the tinge of excitement we feel when walking to a book shop. It is only natural then, that a mammoth book fair would elevate you to ecstasy. Boi Mela is something we look forward to for one whole year, something that you absolutely must go to or take your children to.
Amidst hartals and blockades Amar Ekushey Grantha Mela 2015 had begun. This year too, the grounds of the fair have been Bangla Academy premises and extended to a part of Suhrawardy Udyan.
More spaces have been allocated for the publishers to set up their stalls. About 351 stalls set up in the fair. Among them 92 institutions had set up their stalls on the Bangla Academy premises and 259 institutions at the Suhrawardy Udyan.
Both Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan have been decorated in a very artistic way. The stalls' themes were based on subjects like International Mother Language Day, Liberation War, etc.
Visitors are very happy about the spacious arrangement of the book fair. After all, with the lush greenery of the age-old trees in the premises, the environment is indeed very refreshing, and there are a lot of places to sit and dwell with your friends or get a glimpse of your favourite writers.
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Bangla Academy, an International Literary Conference was also held, where around 40 literacy personalities and academicians from different countries participated. The regular programmes (cultural events, book launching ceremonies, et al) of the fair are also taking place.  
The fair authority said that this time it had taken additional security measures for the fair-goers. About 75 close circuit cameras for the police have installed to ensure the security.
Fair timings: 3pm - 8.30pm (weekdays); 11am - 8.30pm (weekends); 8am - 8.30pm (21 February).

Reporting by Shahi Sohana