The atmosphere around Dhaka University was filled with a special energy this evening, reflected in the streets and the eager faces of visitors.

After all, it is the first day of the month-long festival of books.

As soon as the clock struck 5:00pm and the gates of Suhrawardy Udyan opened, enthusiastic book lovers poured into the fairgrounds, exploring the vast collection of literary works.

Earlier in the day, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus inaugurated the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela at 3:00pm.

The theme of this year's book fair, "July Gono-Obbhutthan: Natun Bangladesh Binirman," carries profound significance, coming in the wake of the July uprising that led to the fall of the Awami League government. The echoes of that movement resonate throughout the fair, transforming it into not only a celebration of literature but also a reflection on the power of people's voices.

The influence of the July uprising is particularly evident in the newly introduced "July Corner," dedicated to showcasing literature and narratives surrounding the movement.

The colours chosen for this year's fair -- red, black, and white -- hold deep symbolism: red represents revolution, black signifies mourning, and white symbolises the eternal lamp of hope.

As in previous years, commercial publishing houses have set up their stalls at Suhrawardy Udyan, while government-run offices, autonomous bodies, and social organisations occupy spaces within the Bangla Academy premises.

During a visit, this correspondent saw crowds gathered around popular publishing houses such as Anyaprokash, UPL, Anannya Prakashan, Batighor, Agami, Kotha Prokash, and many others, eagerly browsing and purchasing their favourite books.

While some stalls were still finalising decorations, the festive spirit remained undiminished.

"I have been eagerly waiting for this day. I love reading books, especially on historical topics," said Jahangir Alam, a student at Dhaka University.

His younger brother, fifth-grader Abu Humaira, added, "I prefer horror stories -- they are more thrilling."

Atika Anowar, a private university student, said, "Even though it's just the first day, I couldn't resist coming. I've been visiting the fair since my college days."

The fair will be open daily from 3:00pm to 9:00pm, except on public holidays, and will run until February 29. On February 21, in observance of International Mother Language Day, the fair will open at 8:00am and continue until 9:00pm.

Publishers are hopeful for strong sales this year as visitors can finally enjoy the fair without restrictions.

"Our business has suffered over the past couple of years. This year, we hope to recover from those losses," said Aditya Antor, co-owner of Ittadi Grantha Prokash, speaking to The Daily Star.

MANUSCRIPT SCRUNITY

Regarding the scrutiny of manuscripts before publishing books at the book fair, Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki said, "A media report is causing misunderstanding. It cites a police official claiming that books should be submitted to Bangla Academy or the police for review before printing. This is unbelievable, this is absurd. It is nowhere near our government's policy."

He made these remarks yesterday morning while delivering the keynote speech as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the Jatiya Kabita Utsab, held at the Central Library premises of Dhaka University.

DMP'S CLARIFICATION

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has clarified that no decision or suggestion has been made requiring police approval for manuscripts before publication at the book fair.

In a press release yesterday, the DMP said they had only requested Bangla Academy to be cautious in allowing "provocative" books at the fair.

During a security inspection at Suhrawardy Udyan on Friday, DMP Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali said, "We have asked Bangla Academy officials to ensure that no books containing provocative language or content are displayed at the fair. These should be carefully reviewed before being placed in stalls."

However, the DMP emphasised in its statement, "No decision or suggestion has been made by the police regarding the vetting or approval of books for future publication."