Bangladesh Embassy Mexico Showcases Rich Literary Heritage at 37th Guadalajara International Book Fair 2023

Prodip Roy, Melbourne, December 2, 2023

In a vibrant display of literary and cultural exchange, Bangladesh has proudly taken centre stage at the 37th Guadalajara International Book Fair, Latin America’s largest and the world’s second-largest book fair. The prestigious event, where the European Union holds the distinguished position of Guest of Honor, has become a platform for Bangladesh to share its rich literary heritage with the global audience.
The Bangladesh Embassy in Mexico City has orchestrated a captivating showcase at the book fair, featuring a diverse collection of 64 books that delve into various aspects of Bangladesh’s history, including the Liberation War, the life and contributions of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, political movements, socio-economic development, women’s empowerment, literature, and culture.

Ambassador Abida Islam inaugurated Bangladesh’s debut stall on November 25, 2023, expressing immense delight at the opportunity to represent the country at this esteemed literary gathering. The stall looks into Bangladesh’s literary and cultural richness and serves as a platform for global cultural exchange, fostering understanding and appreciation among diverse cultures.

Among the showcased works are Spanish translations of significant literary pieces, including Anisul Hoque’s “Unfinished Memoirs,” “People’s Hero,” and “MAA,” along with “100 poems in Español” and the National Poet of Bangladesh, Nazrul’s poems.
The inauguration ceremony was marked by unveiling the Embassy’s publication, “Beautiful Bangladesh,” a picturesque presentation of the country’s scenic beauty. The event saw the presence of renowned Bangladeshi writers Anisuz Zaman, poet and writer Mou Madhubanti, poet Shelly Zaman Khan, Honorary Consul Designate of Bangladesh to Guadalajara Carlos Wolstein, Colombian writer and translator Andres Muñoz, and Counsellor of the Embassy Shahanaj Ranu.

“Bangladeshi handicrafts, focusing on traditional dolls and embroidered items, such as Katha stitch pieces, vividly depict rural Bangladesh’s daily life.”

Ambassador Islam reiterated her commitment to showcasing Bangladesh annually at this prestigious book fair and encouraged Bangladeshi publishers to expand their representation. The occasion also saw the inauguration of the book titled “Cuentos a Orillas Del Río Padma” (Tales on the Banks of the Padma River), featuring short stories from Bangladesh, translated by Anisuz Zaman and edited by Andres Muñoz.
Visitors at the Bangladesh stall expressed a keen interest in Spanish publications, particularly “The People’s Hero,” “100 Poems in Spanish,” and “Beautiful Bangladesh.” Additionally, there was a growing desire to purchase Bangladeshi handicrafts, focusing on traditional dolls and embroidered items, such as Katha stitch pieces, vividly depicting the daily life of rural Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s participation stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to fostering art, culture, and literature exchange on the global stage, furthering cultural diplomacy efforts.

*Source: Bangladesh Embassy Mexico Facebook page