Announcment
| 13th London Bangladesh Book Fair 2025 | |
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Dates & Times Sunday, 14th September 2025 — 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday, 15th September 2025 — 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM |
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Venue Brady Arts & Community Centre 192–196 Hanbury Street London E1 5HU, UK |
| Join us for a vibrant celebration of Bangladeshi literature, language, and culture at one of the UK’s most anticipated literary gatherings. Discover books, engage in discussions, and connect with writers, translators, and cultural figures from around the world. | |
A Brief Historical Overview of Sommilito Sahitya O Sangskritik Parishad Juktorajya Foundation and Purpose
Established in 2009, Sommilito Sahitya O Sangskritik Parishad Juktorajya was formed to serve as a united platform for Bengali literary and cultural practitioners in the UK, with the core mission of promoting and preserving the Bengali language, literature, and cultural heritage.
Major Initiative – Bangladesh Book Fair & Festival (Since 2010)
Since 2010, the Council has successfully hosted the annual Bangladesh Book Fair, Literature and Cultural Festival UK, becoming one of the most prominent diaspora-led events focused on Bengali literature and culture in the United Kingdom.
Cultural and Literary Impact:
The organisation has provided opportunities for cross-generational engagement, featuring participation from renowned authors, poets, artists, and publishers from both the UK and Bangladesh. It has become a cultural hub for intellectual and artistic expression.
Organisational Development:
Over the years, the Council has undergone several structural and leadership changes, adapting to community needs while maintaining its cultural mission.
Challenges and Resilience:
Despite internal disagreements and occasional organisational controversies, the Parishad has consistently demonstrated resilience and continued its activities with integrity and community support.
Legacy and Contribution:
From 2009 to 2024, Sommilito Sahitya O Sangskritik Parishad Juktorajya has played a pivotal role in sustaining the literary and cultural identity of the British Bangladeshi community, fostering a deeper connection with Bengali roots among younger generations.
Founding Philosophy:
Pioneering Book Fair Concept in the UK Diaspora:
Participation from Bangladesh and Beyond:
The organisation consistently invited celebrated authors, publishers, and performers from Bangladesh and other countries, fostering global cultural exchange.
Venue and Geographic Expansion:
Initially London-based, over time the events expanded to other UK cities, increasing accessibility and regional participation within the British Bangladeshi community.
Leadership and Volunteer Engagement:
The Parishad has engaged a diverse leadership, comprising writers, academics, media professionals, and community leaders, and relied heavily on committed volunteers for event management and execution.
Youth and Women’s Involvement:
Special emphasis was placed on encouraging participation of young writers, students, and female voices, ensuring generational and gender diversity in all its activities.
Publication and Documentation:
The organisation has supported the publication of books, magazines, and commemorative souvenirs, archiving its journey and showcasing diaspora creativity.
Collaboration with Local and International Institutions:
The Parishad has collaborated with UK-based literary, academic, and cultural bodies, as well as institutions in Bangladesh, building a bridge between the homeland and the diaspora.
Digital Transformation:
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and changing times, the organisation successfully transitioned to online platforms for hosting virtual book fairs and cultural events, continuing its mission without interruption.
Recognition and Endurance:
Despite facing ideological differences and leadership transitions, the Parishad’s commitment to cultural service has earned it recognition within the British Bangladeshi community and beyond.
