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Kolkata Book Fair: Ukraine, Russia Showcase Culture Over Conflict
29 Jan
Summary
- Ukraine and Russia exhibit literature and art, not weapons, at a book fair.
- Ukraine's stall features Bengali translations of Taras Shevchenko's works.
- Russia's stall displays historical books and portraits of literary figures.
In a notable display at the Kolkata International Book Fair, Ukraine and Russia are presenting their cultural facets, diverging from their usual geopolitical focus. This event offers a unique space where literary and artistic expressions take precedence over ongoing international tensions. Ukraine's exhibit is curated to assert national identity, featuring travel guides, children's books on bravery, and art. A significant highlight is the Bengali translation of Taras Shevchenko's poetry and prose, rendered by translator Mridula Ghosh. The stall is adorned with Petrykivka folk art, a UNESCO-recognized tradition, and QR codes linking to cultural history.
The Russian presence at the fair emphasizes its rich cultural heritage and historical memory. Their stall showcases a wide range of fiction and non-fiction, including titles from the World War II era, alongside books on ballet, science, and memoirs. These books are primarily for display and are available in English, Hindi, Russian, and Bengali. The exhibit is anchored by a photography display titled 'Victory over Fascism' and handcrafted portraits of renowned Russian literary figures like Dostoyevsky and Pushkin.
