Archive · 27 Jan 2026
Literary Tensions at Kolkata Book Fair
At the Kolkata International Book Fair, Russia and Ukraine have stalls next to each other, which makes the tension between them very noticeable.
The Russian stall shows off their books and heritage, while the Ukrainian stall shows how they are still strong and creative even though there is a war.
The Ukrainian representative, Lyubko Deresh, says that even though they are close, they are not friends with Russia.
The Russian representatives act like they don't even see the Ukrainian stall.
This is Ukraine's first time at the book fair, and they hope to come back every year.
The 49th Kolkata International Book Fair features stalls from both Russia and Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing tension between the two countries.
Ukraine's stall, represented by Lyubko Deresh, showcases the country's resilience and cultural growth despite the war.
Russia's stall emphasizes its literary heritage and has been a regular at the fair for seven years.
There is noticeable indifference and tension between the representatives of the two stalls.
This is Ukraine's first time participating in the book fair, with hopes to continue annually.
- Who
- Russia and Ukraine
- What
- Literary tensions at the Kolkata International Book Fair
- When
- During the 49th Kolkata International Book Fair
- Where
- Kolkata, India
- Why
- Due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the proximity of their stalls at the book fair
- Event
- 49th Kolkata International Book Fair
- Russian Stall
- F-13
- Ukrainian Stall
- F-7
- Ukrainian Representative
- Lyubko Deresh
- Russian Participation Duration
- 7 years
- Ukraine's Participation Status
- First time