Chicago – November 24, 2025
The city of Aligarh is hosting one of its most vibrant literary gatherings as the Aligarh Kitab Mela 2025 (Aligarh Urdu Book Fair) opens its doors at the Cultural Education Centre of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Organized by the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL), the fair will continue from 22 November to 30 November, offering nine days of books, culture, and literary celebration.
Promoting Reading Culture Among Youth
NCPUL states that the fair aims to reinvigorate reading habits, especially among students and young Urdu readers. According to the council, the event is designed to give “a new impetus” to Urdu literature and language in the region.
Dr. Shams Iqbal, Director of NCPUL, emphasized that the mela is an inclusive effort to make Urdu books more accessible and to attract new generations to reading through engaging activities and author interactions.
Diverse Participation and Exhibits
More than 60 publishers from across India are expected to participate in the event, displaying works across genres including history, culture, fiction, children’s literature, and contemporary Urdu writing. The stalls will also feature books on literary criticism, poetry, and academic research—making it a comprehensive showcase of modern and classical Urdu literature.
Entry to the fair is open and free for all, encouraging maximum community participation.
Inauguration and Distinguished Guests
The 2025 edition of the Aligarh Kitab Mela will be inaugurated by Professor Naima Khatoon, Vice-Chancellor of AMU. The event will also be graced by Padma Shri laureate Professor Syed Zillur Rahman as Guest of Honor.
Prominent Urdu fiction writer Syed Muhammad Ashraf is scheduled to deliver the keynote address, with special remarks by Professor Shafiq Qadwai, adding significant literary prestige to the opening ceremony.
Cultural & Literary Programs
Alongside book exhibitions, the mela features an array of cultural and literary activities:
- Meet the Author sessions
- Mehfil-e-Ghazal and poetry gatherings
- Storytelling and programs for children
- Cultural performances and academic discussions
These events aim to transform the mela into a community-oriented literary festival, drawing scholars, students, writers, and general book lovers alike.
A Step Toward Strengthening Urdu Literary Culture
By collaborating with AMU—one of India’s foremost centers of Urdu scholarship—NCPUL has positioned the Aligarh Kitab Mela as not just a book fair, but an essential initiative to safeguard and promote Urdu literary culture. The event bridges academia and the broader literary community, encouraging dialogue, creativity, and a love for reading.
