Iran Showcases 1,000 Titles at the 26th Baghdad International Book Fair: A Literary Extravaganza!

Iran is showcasing its vibrant publishing industry at the 26th Baghdad International Book Fair, which commenced on September 10 in Iraq. This event serves as a platform to promote literature and cultural exchanges between nations, particularly focusing on Arabic-language publications.

Representing Iran, the Iran Book and Literature House has brought an impressive collection of 1,000 Arabic-language titles to the fair. This year’s exhibition is particularly significant as it commemorates the 1,500th anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with a dedicated section featuring 100 titles that delve into his life and teachings.

In addition to the focus on the Prophet, the Iranian pavilion also emphasizes:

• Achievements in Quran Printing: A special display showcasing Iran’s advancements in Quran publishing.
• Islamic Jurisprudence: 300 titles dedicated to Islamic law and seminary sciences.
• Ethics and Resistance Movement: 70 works on ethics, along with 20 publications discussing the Resistance movement and the legacy of General Qassem Soleimani.

Moreover, the fair features the talented Shiraz-based calligrapher, Majid Rastgar, who is demonstrating contemporary Iranian calligraphy to the fair’s visitors. His work is complemented by an exhibition of 20 calligraphic paintings that highlight the Quranic attributes of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

On September 11, Mehdi Mohseni, the Deputy for Economy and Culture at the Iran Book and Literature House and head of the Iranian pavilion, delivered a speech in Arabic focusing on the theme of “Interaction and Cooperation between the Nations of Iran and Iraq in the Development of Calligraphy and Quranic Manuscripts.” In his address, he paid homage to the contributions of prominent Iranian calligraphers, Ibn Muqla and Ibn Bawwab, who were influential figures in Baghdad during the 4th and 5th centuries AH.

During the same day, Mohseni engaged in discussions at the Iranian pavilion with Iraq’s Deputy Minister of Culture and the head of the Iraqi Publishers’ Union, who oversees the book fair. The Iraqi official emphasized the necessity of enhancing Arabic-language resources on Iranology, stating, “Iraqis are deeply interested in the history of Iran, but there are few Arabic sources on this subject available in Iraq.”

On the fair’s third day, Mohseni also interacted with the head of public relations from the Great Mosque of Kufa. Renowned for its cultural activities and unique manuscript library, the mosque official expressed a keen interest in collaborating with the Iran Book and Literature House to promote Iranian literary, religious, and cultural works to audiences in Iraq.

The 26th Baghdad International Book Fair is set to continue until September 21 at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds, providing an exceptional opportunity for cultural exchange and the promotion of literature between Iran and Iraq.

This year’s fair not only underscores the significance of literature in bridging cultures but also highlights the enduring relationship between Iran and Iraq through their shared history and literary heritage. The participation of Iranian authors, publishers, and artists at this prestigious event reflects a commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding through the power of words.

As the fair progresses, the Iranian delegation remains dedicated to showcasing the richness of Iranian literature and fostering connections with their Iraqi counterparts, paving the way for future collaborations in the literary domain.