By TC News Desk
Agartala, 8th January 2026: The fifth day of the 44th Agartala Book Fair will be remembered as a landmark in Tripura’s literary and cultural history. At the Hapania International Fairground’s Open Stage No. 2, Shatarupa Prakashani hosted a solemn and well-orchestrated literary gathering, marked by the simultaneous release of eight new books.
The event was graced by social worker Tapas Roy, former IGP Bimal Kumar Roy, Vice President of the State Cultural Advisory Committee Subrata Chakraborty, and noted poet Nakul Roy. Their presence lent the occasion added prestige and significance.
Shatarupa Prakashani extended a warm welcome to the guests with traditional scarves, floral bouquets, and commemorative mementos. The felicitation was conducted with elegance by Shatarupa Sarkar, daughter of the publishing house’s founder Santosh Sarkar, whose refined courtesy and poised management enhanced the dignity of the ceremony.
The program commenced with a soulful rendition of the patriotic song “Vande Mataram” by Piyali Das, Sutapa Bhattacharya, and fellow artistes. Their stirring performance evoked deep emotions of patriotism among the audience.
In his welcome address, publisher, teacher, poet and writer Santosh Sarkar emphasized the social importance of literature and the responsibility of writers. He noted that writing enriches human thought and values, helping society progress. “Creativity lies within every individual—it only needs awakening,” he urged, calling on all to express their ideas and emotions through writing.
The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of eight new works under Shatarupa Prakashani: Jibon Mrityur Dola Chole – Poetry by Sanhita Bhattacharya; Banichirantani O Ukthi – Reflections by Santosh Sarkar; Operation Sindur – Poetry by Santosh Sarkar; Naibidyi Thale – Poetry by Ratnaprabha Ganguly; Deonodi – Poetry by Madan Kumar Sarkar; Tribarna – Poetry by Narayan Chandra Mitra; Ami Sei Kobi – Poetry by Pragati Chakma; and Jhora Phool – Poetry by Kalpana Das.
Guests praised the diversity of themes, stylistic richness, and emotional depth of the works, calling them significant contributions to contemporary Bengali literature. Special appreciation was reserved for Sarkar’s “Banichirantani O Ukthi”, which was described as a refreshing departure from convention, offering timeless wisdom and life-affirming reflections that promise to inspire readers.
The evening concluded with a heartfelt poetry recitation by Sutapa Bhattacharya, which infused the atmosphere with tenderness and emotion. The program was skillfully anchored by Subir Bhattacharya and Sanhita Bhattacharya, ensuring a seamless flow throughout.
The event was not merely a ceremonial release of new titles; it was a vibrant confluence of literature, culture, and creativity. By enriching the 44th Agartala Book Fair with such depth and meaning, Shatarupa Prakashani’s initiative has left an indelible mark on Tripura’s cultural calendar.
