Are you seeking a comfy place outside your home to browse books and read in a calm environment? Steaming tea or coffee with snacks can make the reading more enjoyable. Let’s delve into some popular cafes in Dhaka city, where bookworms can immerse themselves in reading with a nice blend of coffee. 9 Bookstore and Reading Cafes in Dhaka Pathak Shamabesh Pathak Shamabesh is a fantastic spot for a cosy date with your favourite book. This place is popular among people of all ages. This library, founded in 1987, also serves as a bookstore, offering a great collection of books. Different genres, including concept books, picture books, fiction, children’s books, romance, and fantasy, are available for exploration.  Additionally, Pathak Shamabesh has a unique feature: the Reader's Club Membership account. This allows patrons to create an account and maintain a credit balance by depositing BDT 20,000 in advance. Operating from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day, it is open for seven days a week. Read more: Best Online Book Selling Websites in Bangladesh Bengal Boi In Dhaka, Bengal Boi, established in 2017, stands out as a renowned bookstore cafe and hangout spot, championing reading across all age groups. This cosy cafe offers a diverse selection of books and magazines, complemented by refreshing tea. Ideal for enjoying nature, it operates from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, seven days a week.  Alongside fast food options, Bengal Boi hosts various programmes and activities to foster a love for reading and supports emerging writers through book promotions and events. With its well-organised layout and picturesque garden, it is the perfect haven to appreciate literature and the outdoors. Boi Chottor Boi Chottor in Shyamoli, Dhaka, is a delightful bookstore cafe offering a unique collection of imported original books. Operating from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day, it provides various services like dine-in, outdoor seating, curbside pickup, and in-store pickup. Additionally, they offer nationwide book home delivery.  Read more: Books VS Kindle: Which Is Better For You? With free wifi and a cosy ambience, customers can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while exploring the shelves. Ample seating areas cater to readers and scholars alike. Boi Chottor also serves a variety of coffee, tea, and snacks, with designated spaces for children to indulge in reading. Occasional discounts add to the allure of this charming establishment.  PBS Discover a haven for book enthusiasts at PBS, the pioneering chain bookstore cafe in Bangladesh. Established in 2010, it caters to readers of all ages and educational backgrounds. Operating from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day, PBS offers an extensive collection covering various fields such as world literature, science, philosophy, sociology, history, economics, politics, law, and religion.  They also stock materials for A-level students. Moreover, PBS features a vibrant children's reading and play zone adorned with shelves of colourful books, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a children-friendly environment to nurture a love for reading.   Read more: What Different Colors of Roses Mean: A Deeper Look Baatighar  Founded by Dipankar Das in 2005 in Chattogram, Baatighar has expanded its reach to four districts of Bangladesh, including Dhaka, Sylhet, and Rajshahi. Renowned among book lovers, it offers a haven for those seeking solace in the world of literature. With its creative interior, Baatighar provides an elevated reading experience, whether you are immersed in fantasy or historical novels. 

Two books titled 'Cha Sramiker Katha' And 'Cha Sramiker Majuri: Maliker Labh, Sramiker Lokshan' were published at the National Press Club on Saturday. Both books were written, edited and principally researched by Philip Gaine. Read : FAO distributes dairy equipment for small farmers' groups to improve dairy processing capacity PPRC Executive Chairman Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman presided over the function organized by Society for Environment and Human Development (SEHD), Bratyajan Resource Centre (BRC) and Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC). After the book was unveiled, a regular discussion meeting was held on the rights of tea workers and the newly published books. Vice President of Bangladesh Tea Workers Union, Juri Valley Mrs Bauri, Acting General Secretary of Bangladesh Tea Workers Union Mr Nripen Paul and President of Bangladesh Trade Union Mr Tapan Dutta spoke on behalf of the tea workers. Read : BNP instigation behind RMG unrest: Home Minister On the other hand, Chairman of Bureau of Economic Research of Dhaka University Professor MM Akash, Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Jyotirmoy Barua, United News of Bangladesh's Editor Farid Hossain and Dhaka University Professor Sanjida Akter spoke on the occasion. UNB Editor Farid Hossain said, "The employers pay low wages to the workers. But why can't they pay more, there is no audit. The book has the story of tea workers, the story of their deprivation, the story of discrimination, the story of losing, the story of winning." Read : SC hearing on banning Jamaat deferred till Nov 19 Highlighting the sufferings of the tea workers, Mrs Bauri, Vice President of Bangladesh Tea Workers Union, Juri Valley, said, "We just want our industries to survive and those of us who are workers just want to live after eating a little. We want to teach our children to read."

If anyone wants to know about Bangladesh, he or she must know about the Father of the Nation. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is an inseparable part of the nation’s history. Books can help to explore his remarkable life, from his early years to his charismatic leadership during tumultuous times. Autobiographies and other insightful books can vividly depict his struggles, political endeavours, and dedication to social justice. In this article, we have selected 7 best books on the Father of the Nation to help the youths learn more about the greatest leader in Bangladesh’s history. Books by Bangabandhu The architect of independent Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the greatest Bangalee of all time, was not only a public leader but also deeply passionate about literature and culture. The proof of this can be found in his three books, ‘The Unfinished Memoirs’, ‘Prison Diaries’ and ‘New China 1952’. The Unfinished Memoirs ‘Oshomapto Attojiboni’ (The Unfinished Memoirs) is an autobiography by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman written in Bengali. In 2004, Bangabandhu’s daughter, Sheikh Hasina received four notebooks containing his writing. The writing on the old, worn-out pages revealed that these were his unfinished autobiography, written between 1967 and 1969 while in prison. In his memoirs, Bangabandhu vividly paints a detailed picture of various facets of his life. He expressively recounts his ancestry and childhood years, his experiences during school and college, as well as his involvement in social and political spheres. his story digs into the historical events that he closely observed as a committed political activist, both preceding and following India's partition. He provides insights into the occurrences such as famine, communal riots in Kolkata and Bihar, the partition itself, and the discriminatory stance of Pakistan's central government. The memoir also meticulously documents pivotal moments such as the Language Movement, the emerging stirrings of the autonomy and independence movements, and skillfully captures a blend of immense uncertainties and soaring aspirations that defined the nation during that era. Bangabandhu did not shy away from expressing his perspectives on other notable leaders of the time, such as Maulana Bhashani, A.K. Fazlul Haq, Mahatma Gandhi, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Yar Mohammad Khan, Liaquat Ali Khan, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, Ghulam Muhammad, Abul Hashim, Khawaja Nazimuddin, Chaudhury Muhammad Ali, Mohammad Ali Bogra, and Nurul Amin. This is the most reliable book to learn about the overall life of the Father of the Nation before the Liberation War. The book was first published in 2012 by The University Press Limited, Dhaka in Bangla language. Since its first publication, ‘The Unfinished Memoirs’ has been published in many languages including in braille as well. Read more: Who was Sheikh Mujibur Rahman? A Short Biography of Bangabandhu, Father of the Nation The Prison Diaries ‘Karagarer Roznamcha’ (The Prison Diaries) is the second memoir by Bangabandhu. Written in Bangla, this book is based on Bangabandhu’s days in jail from 1966 to 1968. Besides discussing the details of prison life, the book reveals the political, economic, and social conditions of contemporary Pakistan. Bangabandhu mentioned political situations at that time, the condition of Awami League leaders and workers in prison, the condition of the media, and the ruthless torture of the rulers. In addition to that, the Father of the Nation also highlighted conspiracy, betrayal, love of nature, devotion to parents, the joys and sorrows in prison in the book. When Bangabandhu was released from prison in 1969, the then government of Pakistan seized his diaries. Four of them were returned later. In 2009, at the initiative of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and with the help of the Special Branch, two more notebooks were retrieved. Based on them, Bangla Academy published the book in 2017.

Minister for Education Dr Dipu Moni has disclosed that students belonging to classes 1, 2, 6, and 7 will be provided books as per the new curriculum on trial basis in the coming year. She said this while addressing a Meet the Press-style program organised by Chandpur Press Club at its auditorium, where she was the chief guest on Friday evening.      The education minister said amendments will be made if any mistakes are found in the books printed for distribution. Urging all to cooperate to make the initiative a success, she informed that books with new editions for four more classes -3, 4, 8 and 9 - will be available in 2024. The remaining two classes i.e. 5 and 10, are expected to receive their new editions in 2025. Also Read: Dipu Moni urges Dhaka University to adopt an academic master plan Replying to a question from the journalists, the minister said that above all, academic qualifications, merit and capability are taken into consideration, when recruiting newly enlisted MPO teachers as trainers.   There are many experienced teachers who don’t have the capability of training others, she said.  The aim, she said, is to transform education in the country through highly skilled, trained teachers.  Urging people of her constituency to vote for her, Dipu Moni said Banaganbandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s daughter Sheikh Hasina is  working relentlessly on her new vision to turn Digital Bangladesh into Smart Bangladesh.    

The longest-running Amar Ekushey Book Fair concluded in the capital Thursday. The 31-day fair is estimated to have sold books worth Tk52.50 crore. Traditionally held throughout February every year at the Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan, the fair's 2022 edition started on February 15 after a pandemic-induced delay. Jalal Ahmed, director of the Bangla Academy and member secretary of the Ekushey Book Fair Committee, presented the sales report of this year at the closing ceremony.

Two days after the delayed Ekushey book fair opened some publishers were still seen decorating their stalls amid slow but cautious arrival of book lovers on Wednesday. One-third of total stalls were still found to be vacant as the fair was launched on February 14 (Monday) under the shadow of Covid-19 pandemic. Read: PM inaugurates Ekushey Book Fair-2022 The traditional opening of the fair was scheduled for February 1 for a month. But it was delayed due to the spread of the virus since last month. Rahad Uddin, a visitor, said, "I came here to observe the situation. The fair is yet to get momentum. I think it will take 3 to 5 more days for the fair to be on full gear." "I was looking for a book but I didn’t find it. Sellers told me to come after 2 days", he added. Asked about the reason of the delay in decorating stall, manager of a publishing house blamed it on uncertainty. Read:DMP takes steps to ensure security at Ekushey book fair Speaking on condition of anonymity he said many of the publishers were in doubt if the fair will take place at all. "I hope, we will be able to sell books from tomorrow in full swing and we are also hopeful about making up our losses incurred last year", he added.

The Asia Foundation and UNESCO Dhaka Office on Wednesday jointly launched “Children Books on Traditional Games.”The launching event with a virtual panel discussion was part of Bangladesh’s celebrations marking the 50 years of the Independence and birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman supported by UNESCO at its 40th General Conference.The Asia Foundation in Bangladesh and UNESCO Dhaka Office joined forces to produce and disseminate books and reading materials focused on cultural heritage of Bangladesh, and to promote reading among children and youth of Bangladesh. READ:  7pc Bangladesh families have to borrow to send children to school: UNESCO As an outcome of this partnership, 11 books were prepared in an age appropriate manner on the Traditional Games of Bangladesh under the theme of “Let’s Read about Heritage’’.The content was developed by reputed children book writers and illustrators under the overall guidance of the Asia Foundation and UNESCO Dhaka Office, presenting traditional games of Bangladesh for children as an expression of cultural identity and living heritage of Bangladesh.The books were approved and highly appreciated by the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) and the Bangladesh National Commission for UNESCO (BNCU).The e-book versions of the 11 books for Children on Traditional Games are publicly available free of charge on the Asia Foundation's Let's Read's Digital library: https://reader.letsreadasia.org/all/newChildren, parents, students, teachers and caregivers can download the books free of charge to their smartphones, tablets, or other digital devices.Thus enabling their children to learn at and from home, and giving them a chance to learn the expression of cultural identity and living heritage of Bangladesh.The launching event and panel discussion of these children books on traditional games highlighted the importance, challenges and opportunities of the creation of books and strengthening reading habits for children in Bangladesh.Md Shohel Imam Khan, Deputy Secretary General, Bangladesh National Commission for UNESCO, joined the discussion as a special guest. READ:  Doleshwar Hanafia Jame Mosque wins UNESCO award Prof  Abdullah Abu Sayeed, founder and chairperson of  Bishwa Sahitya Kendra (World Literary Centre), educator, writer, television presenter and activist, Sara Zaker, actor, director and co-producer of Sisimpur, Prof AKM Reazul Hassan, Member, Primary Curriculum, National Curriculum and Textbook Board Bangladesh, Beatrice Kaldun, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, Kazi Faisal Bin Seraj, Country Representative Bangladesh, Asia Foundation joined the panel discussion and shared their experience and reflection on the significance of book creation and enhancing the reading habit for children.The panel discussion was moderated by Kizzy Tahnin, Programme Officer for Culture, UNESCO Dhaka Office.

The High Court on Monday rejected the writ petition of Qazi Anwar Hossain owner of Seba Prokashoni claiming the copyright of 260 books of popular thriller series ‘Masud Rana’. The court also said copyright of 50 books of ‘Kuasha’ series will remain seized. The HC bench of Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam and Md Iqbal Kabir passed the order today. Barrister ABM Hamidul Misbah presented the petitioner’s side while lawyer Khurshid Alam Khan and Iftabul Kamal Ayan appeared for the Copyright office. Also read: Sheikh Abdul Hakim, 'Masud Rana' ghostwriter, passes away On July 29, 2019, author Sheikh Abdul Hakim submitted a complaint against Qazi Anwar Hossain for violating section 71 and 89 of the Copyright Act by depriving him of the author rights of those books of Masud Rana and Kuasha series. On June 14, 2020, the Copyright office passed its decision in favour of Sheikh Abdul Hakim. Jafar Raza Chowdhury, registrar of Bangladesh Copyright office said, Sheikh Abdul Hakim was given author rights only in one of the Masud Rana series and six of Kuahsa series books but he has proved his authorship for the remaining ones. “Sheikh Abdul Hakim will have to separately appeal for each book for the author right and copyright,”he said. The copyright office in its order directed the defense to stop publication and commercial use of the claimed and enlisted books until further order of court or the copyright board. Also read: HC stays copyright order on Masud Rana, Kuasha series It also directed the defense to submit the statement of account of the sold books, number of sold books and the number of editions of the books that have registered copyright to the petitioner within 30 days. Qazi Anwar Hossain later filed a writ challenging the order of the copyright office. On September 10, 2020, The High Court stayed the decision of Copyright Office Bangladesh for one month. The court asked the Cultural Affairs Secretary, Copyright Office Bangladesh, Registrar of Copyright and Copyright Board to explain why the Copyright Office’s June 14 decision should not be declared illegal. Unfortunately on August 29, this year Sheikh Abdul Hakim, ghostwriter of the popular spy thriller series 'Masud Rana', passed away at the age of 75, after losing his long battle with bronchitis.

A 12th standard girl from South Kashmir's Kulgam district, Bushra Nida has become one of the youngest authors from Kashmir valley as she has written three books so far reported ANI. The three books which have been written by Nida titled 'Tulips of Feelings',' The Davy' (Poetic Rendition of Elements of Periodic Table) and 'E=mc2'. After writing these books, the girl has shot to fame and received awards for the first and second books. Also read: Pakistan army helicopter crashes in Kashmir; 2 pilots killed Bushra's first book 'Tulips of Feelings' got Appreciation Award from 'India Book of Records' while her second book 'The Davy' (Poetic Rendition of Elements of Periodic Table) gained international applause and is registered as 'Golden Book of World Records' and 'Asia Book of Records'. She had also won 'International Kalam's Golden Award 2021' for her second book. Regarding her third book, she said, "In the book, I have tried to simplify the formula by giving it a poetic form so that even a layperson can understand it easily." She said that it is the first poetry book written on E=mc2 and even applied to get it registered in the Guinness Book of World Records. "I have submitted the application and it has been accepted. The committee is now scrutinizing my claim. I am hopeful to get the title on my name," she said. Also read: Black Day observed to denounce Pak-led attack in Kashmir in 1947 Bushra also said that she was interested in writing and reading poems since childhood which made her write three books and wants to become a doctor because it was her late father's dream. Naseera Akhter, the girl's mother feels proud of her daughter's talent and achievements. "I am proud of her talent and achievements. I thank god for supporting her and hope she continues to reach heights in future. She has written her first book in Class 10th. If she continues to work with dedication, she will gain fame across the world," her mother said.

Are you looking for the best bookstore cafe in Dhaka? Books; the 5 lettered words may not mean much to an ordinary person other than associating it with a boring stash of pages. But to a bibliophile, a book is like a doorway to a new world; whether it's leading to ‘Narnia’ through the wardrobe or into the thoughts of ‘Apu’ from ‘Pather Panchali’. To a Bengali reader, books have been a bridge of culture, genre, and an escape from reality. The appeal of a physical book has always trumped e-books and e-readers. There simply isn’t a satisfaction of page-turning thrill on a digital print. And this idea and appeal of physical books have inspired various book cafés. Where you can sit back and turn your favorite page, all over a cup of tea or coffee. Best Mega Bookstore or Reading Cafes in Dhaka Pathak Shamabesh Situated right in the heart of Dhaka in Shahbag, Pathak Shamabesh is probably one of the largest and the oldest book café in Dhaka. The place had a humble beginning back in 1987 with just a small store in Aziz supermarket, opposite to its current flagship center. However, the vision and need for a book café inspired its founder to venture into a large space in the annex building of the National Museum. You will find all sorts of books here tucked in rows after rows perfectly organized genre-wise. From international bestsellers to new writers, Pathak Shamabesh has a blend of everything which you can comfortably enjoy from the couch or small sitting areas spread across the center. Read Books VS Kindle: Which Is Better For You? PBS For a book lover, this is a 2 storied paradise. Located right near Shantinagar of Dhaka, PBS is a place hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The first floor is house to an intricate maze of books sorted by genre and writer. Whether it's Bangla or English, you’re sure to find something for yourself here. PBS houses all the latest releases including some timeless classics. Their main attraction has to be the children’s corner where there's an array of children’s books and art materials. There is also a separate play zone for them so that bibliophile parents can have a bit of time off and enjoy some page-turning. The sitting area is intricately spread out which means you’re sure to find a cozy corner for yourself. There’s no coffee here however, but who needs coffee when you can get lost in the world of books? Read Rich Dad Poor Dad– Worth Reading in Your Quarantine Bengal Boi Up until recently, the most iconic thing about Dhanmondi 27 was the towering triplex filled with open space and greenery of Bengal Boi. What places like Pathak Shamabesh started, Bengal Boi gave it a true definitive form. There is an open terrace on the front which also has a café. From the second floor, you can access the books. There is a wide-open area and it's designed to make you feel lost in a fairyland of books. You can find books of all different genres and a seating area right beside, just in case if you wanted to start your adventure right away. The café on the terrace and the rooftop compliments well to the overall aesthetics of the place. Unfortunately, they shifted to the Bengal center right beside its original space recently.  But don’t let that dishearten you. the new place is also every bit reminiscent of the old one. Read Homeschooling Tricks for Parents during Coronavirus Pandemic The Reading Café The reading café is a relatively new one on our list. The place was founded in 2014 with the sole purpose of giving the readers a place to retreat and unwind in a sea of books. The founder of the café, Atikur Rahman decided to branch out to this idea leaving his stable job. Over the years, the café saw growth and incessant support from its customer base. Even amid the pandemic, the café opened its latest branch in Banani. All total there are 4 branches spread across Dhaka for the bibliophiles. There is a diverse collection of books in the reading café. The place promotes itself to have something for everyone. Even if you’re not a reader, you’re sure to convert once you visit this place. Read Online Resources for Homeschooling Children during Quarantine Baatighar Located right in the heart of Dhaka city at Bisya Sahitya Kendra, Baatighar quickly became popular among the readers due to its magnificent interior and collection of books. The bookstore is originally from Chittagong and you get certain design elements of old tradition from the interior. The dome-like bookshelves give you a feeling as if you are in some palace laden with books. Their collection of books ranging from Bengali classics as well as new ones. There’s also a good collection of international best sellers and fan-favorite genres, all original. There is a café on the rooftop, so you can take your book and get lost in it over a cup of coffee. Overall, this is a nice place if you’re looking for something to please your eyes as well as your soul. Read Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: Worth Reading in Your Quarantine Bookworm The last place on our list is the bookworm. Located near the BAF Shaheen College, this place has been the main attraction to the students and young professionals. Bookworm has a cozy interior with a rustic design. The place itself is very spacious with over 10000 sq. ft. of spacious area. The best thing about the place is its extensive collection of English books. You can find something from the past as well as recent releases. Their collection of Bengali books is also commendable. You can pick a book and find a cozy corner for yourself in the huge spread-out area. Being a one-floor bookstore, there is seemingly an endless aisle of books for you to please get lost in. Trust us, you will not regret paying a peek at this place. Read Love for books growing as country hosts over 40 book fairs a year Final Words Books will forever remain a pleasant escape from reality. These bookstores in the list however alleviate that experience by creating an atmosphere that you can feel comfortable in. without any additional cost, you get to experience your books in an environment meant for the readers. And that is something quite priceless for a bibliophile.