Initiative to Preserve the History of Bengali Newspapers in Japan

Japan Bangla Press, a community newspaper published from Japan, is organising a unique event to preserve the long history of Bengali-language newspapers, journalism and publishing in Japan, while honouring the pioneers who have contributed to Bengali journalism in the diaspora.

The event will feature the unveiling of the latest printed issue of Japan Bangla Press, a special exhibition of old and rare copies of Bengali newspapers and periodicals published in Japan over the years, and an honouring ceremony for pioneering and legendary editors who have made significant contributions to Bengali journalism and publishing in Japan.

The event will be held on September 27, 2026 at 6PM at BView Hall, Akabane in Tokyo.

The history of Bengali newspapers in Japan spans several decades. Over the years, numerous newspapers and periodicals have been published, reflecting the Bengali language, literature, culture, news, achievements and everyday lives of the Bangladeshi community in Japan.
These publications were not merely sources of news; they also served as important historical records documenting the lives, struggles, achievements, cultural activities and social development of the Bengali community in Japan.

One of the main attractions of the event will be an exhibition of old and rare Bengali newspapers and periodicals published in Japan. According to the organisers, these printed publications are much more than collections of old pages. They are living historical documents that represent the development of the Bengali language, journalism and publishing in the Japanese diaspora.

The exhibition particularly aims to highlight publications from the early years of Bengali journalism in Japan, as well as the contributions of the editors and publishers who played pioneering roles in establishing Bengali newspapers in the country. The event will also honour pioneering and legendary editors who have made significant contributions to Bengali journalism and publishing in Japan.

The organizers believe that their dedication, courage and efforts during challenging times will continue to inspire a new generation of journalists, writers, editors and publishers.

Mahbubur Rahman Babu, Editor and Publisher of Japan Bangla Press, said, “The old Bengali newspapers published from Japan are invaluable records of our diaspora life, language, literature, journalism and history. Preserving these rare publications and honouring those who laid the foundation of Bengali journalism during difficult times is our responsibility. One of the main objectives of this initiative is to introduce the younger generation to this important history.”

He further said that Japan Bangla Press has undertaken this initiative with the aim of presenting the past, present and future of Bengali journalism in Japan as part of a continuous historical journey.

Journalists working in Bangladesh and Japan, writers, literary figures, editors, publishers, cultural personalities, members of the Bangladeshi community and lovers of the Bengali language have been invited to attend the event.