For book lovers, book fairs are magical events where people wander from stall to stall, searching for author-signed copies, unique covers, classic editions, and tempting discounts. In India, book fairs are a vibrant part of cultural life, and one such event stands out above all, Kolkata’s boi mela.
More than just a marketplace for books, the boi mela reflects Bengali culture, deeply rooted in the city’s legacy of reading, intellectual exchange, and knowledge-sharing. It also holds the distinction of being India’s oldest book fair, making it an iconic part of the city’s rich cultural landscape.
India’s history with book fairs dates back to 1918, when the first-ever book exhibition was held at College Street, Calcutta (now Kolkata). This historic event was organized by the National Council of Education (NCE) as part of its mission to promote the Swadeshi Movement.
