Mumbai: The 48th International Kolkata Book Fair 2025 will spotlight Germany as the focal theme country, marking an extraordinary celebration of Indo-German cultural and literary bonds. The event will showcase Germany’s vibrant literary traditions, cultural diversity, and collaborative ties with India and South Asia. Visitors will enjoy an engaging lineup of programs that explore sustainability and inclusivity, embodying shared global values.

It is set to take place from 28 January to 9 February 2025 at the iconic Boimela Prangan in Karunamoyee, Saltlake. Known for being one of the largest book fairs in the world, this much-awaited event will bring together book lovers, authors, publishers, and cultural enthusiasts from around the globe for nearly two weeks of literary celebration and cultural exchange.

The event will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal Smt Mamata Banerjee, with German Ambassador to India and Bhutan Dr Philipp Ackermann, and Goethe-Institut South Asia’s Regional Director Dr Marla Stukenberg as chief guests.  Mr Peter Limbourg, Director General of Deutsche Welle, will also be present at the book fair.

Germany as the focal theme country will feature programs under the categories Book Talks, Making Books Public, Live Study and Work in Germany, Young Readers, Science Talks and Exhibitions, catering to a broad and diverse audience. The events will host a variety of voices represented through authors, graphic novelists, publishers and representatives from international literature festivals.

Theme

The theme of Germany’s participation will highlight sustainability and diversity, reflecting shared global values. Through engaging discussions, book launches, cultural programs, interactive workshops and exhibitions, Germany will showcase its commitment to promoting eco-consciousness and inclusivity in literature, art and beyond.

Theme pavilion

The theme pavilion, Shelf Life, designed by renowned architect Anupama Kundoo, will highlight the importance of books and knowledge in shaping human civilization. Known globally for her sustainable architectural practices, Ms. Kundoo has crafted the pavilion with sustainability as a guiding force. Her innovative approach reflects a cultural reverence for books and knowledge.

With studio bases in Berlin and Pondichery, she also represents the strong tie between the two countries. Anupama Kundoo will also be present at the inaugural ceremony.

At the pavilion, visitors will find:

Information about Germany: Its culture, people, and global impact
· Books and Art exhibitions
· An overview of German literature
· Language Learning: Resources and opportunities to study German
· Higher Studies in Germany: Guidance on education pathways and scholarships
· Career Opportunities: Insights into jobs and professional opportunities in Germany
· Interactive installations
· Musical Concerts

Authors

Authors like Ulrike Almut Sandig, Monica Cantieni, Christian Kracht, Max Czollek, Tonio Schachinger, Christopher Kloeble, and David Wagner among others will be present at the book fair.

Graphic novelists like Aisha Franz, Bea Davies, and Maren Amini will be attending the event with others from Dreamland Deutschland. team.

Apart from authors and graphic novelists, renowned publishers and representatives from International literature festivals and institutions like Birte Kreft (Managing Director of Stiftung Buchkunst, Frankfurt), Claudia Kaiser (Vice President, Frankfurt Book Fair), Lavinia Frey (Managing Director for International Literature Festival Berlin), Nora Mercurio (Head of the Rights & Acquisitions Department, Suhrkamp Verlag) will attend the book fair.

The 48th International Kolkata Book Fair 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event. Visitors can immerse themselves in Germany’s rich literary and cultural heritage while exploring the shared values that unite global communities.