International Kolkata Book Fair will take you closer to Russia in 2020. The 44th edition of the most awaited literary fair of the city that begins on January 29 has Russia as its focal theme country.
The spotlight on Russia, the largest country in the world, at the fair also brings with it an interesting literary exchange between Bengal and Russia. Select literary works from Russia and Bengal will be translated in Bengali and Russian respectively and released at the fair. Works of contemporary Russian authors like Booker winner Peter Aleshkovsky’s Fish: A History of One Migration, Natalia Volkova’s Multicoloured Snow and classic writer like Ivan Turgenev’s novels are slated to reach Bengali readers. Some titles will also be translated in Hindi. Though the list of Bengali literature has not been finalised yet, one can expect stories of Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay, Sunil Gangopadhyay, Samaresh Majumdar and others to reach the Russian shore.
Apart from the literary exchange the Russian Pavilion at the book fair will see workshops and interactions with Russian authors. Also, in store will be a Russian folk performance that will give a glimpse of the country that is defined by a rich heritage. The international complex will also have the presence of UK, USA, Japan, Vietnam, France and many other countries.
Also expect enriching sessions with renowned authors, sports personalities, thespians and many others at Kolkata Literary Festival that will be held from February 6-8.