Where Art Meets the Book Fair: Discovering IKBF 2026’s Parallel Creative Space

🖊️Dayeeta Chowdhury

Beyond the crowded book launches and headline events of the International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) 2026 lies a quieter, equally compelling narrative—one shaped by independent creators, handcrafted art, and everyday culture reimagined. While covering the fair, an unexpected discovery unfolded near Gate No. 5, revealing what felt like a parallel, alternative fair thriving alongside the literary giant.

Inside the fairgrounds, a stall named Sentoor Kartoon stood out for its distinctive offerings. Far from conventional merchandise, the stall showcased handcrafted water bottles adorned with artistic illustrations, vintage Kolkata–themed fridge magnets, and creatively designed collectibles that blended nostalgia with modern design. Each piece reflected a careful curation of local culture, making functional items feel personal and story-driven.

Across the road, on the opposite pavement of Gate No. 5, a lively cluster of vendors had drawn steady crowds. Here, creativity took centre stage in everyday objects. From illustrated coasters and art posters to printed diaries, mouse pads featuring old Kolkata motifs, and fridge magnets, the variety was striking. The stalls also offered best-selling books at reasonable prices, making literature accessible beyond the main fair’s commercial setups.

Adding to the sensory experience were resin jewellery pieces, each uniquely handcrafted, and handmade perfumes that reflected artisanal experimentation rather than mass production. However, the undeniable showstopper was the live caricature artists. As people gathered around, artists sketched visitors in real time, transforming passers-by into art. The option for customised orders further amplified the interactive charm of this space.

Together, these stalls formed an ecosystem that mirrored IKBF’s spirit yet operated independently—less formal, more intimate, and deeply rooted in creative expression. This “parallel fair” was not just about selling products; it was about storytelling through craft, accessibility, and direct engagement with audiences.

In discovering these spaces, IKBF 2026 revealed that its true essence extends beyond books alone—it thrives in the vibrant intersections of art, culture, and everyday creativity.