Space for bibliophiles at Crowne Plaza Gulshan Dhaka

Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan has introduced FLOR or “For Love of Reading” at The Deli - Lobby Cafe, a new space designed to bring people closer to books. The ceremony took place alongside the unveiling of the cafe’s new culinary menu, blending literature, food and culture into a vibrant atmosphere.

The event brought together noted authors, publishers, media representatives and members of literary and hospitality communities. Sajjad Sharif, executive editor, Prothom Alo, inaugurated FLOR as the chief guest through a ceremonial curtain drop alongside Karthi VK, general manager of the flagship hotel.

Designed as a dedicated space for readers and curious minds, FLOR offers guests an opportunity to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with the realm of books. The collection incorporates selected titles across seven categories, including leadership, fiction and contemporary Bangla literature.

The concepts are: ‘buy a signature coffee, borrow a book and stay awhile’; or ‘borrow a book and return when you’re done reading’; or ‘TOLO – Take One, Leave One’.

Guests at The Deli can explore the FLOR collection while enjoying artisanal coffee and handcrafted treats, making it easy to slow down, pick up a book and enjoy a few moments of reading.

Guests at the opening ceremony at the Delhi-Lobby Café Photo: Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan

Speaking on the role books play in shaping individuals and societies, Sajjad Sharif said: “It's our misfortune that we have gradually moved away from books, and in doing so, from a significant part of our intellectual and civilised heritage. So much of our history, knowledge and human experience is preserved in books, yet we have become increasingly disconnected from them."

A book is not simply a collection of information; it is a process of thought. It encourages curiosity, strengthens our ability to think critically and allows our imagination to grow beyond its existing limits. Initiatives like FLOR are therefore important because they create a space for people to reconnect with books and, through them, with a larger world of knowledge and ideas.”

At the event, Karthi VK said: “With so much of our lives happening on digital screens, FLOR is our invitation to pause, pick up a real book and enjoy the simple pleasure of reading. We want this to be a space where people can slow down, discover new ideas and connect with a book, with a conversation or simply with themselves. The book exchange also makes FLOR something that belongs to the community and keeps growing with it.”

With FLOR, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan seeks to create more than a place to read. It aims to create a space to pause, discover, exchange ideas and reconnect with the enduring world of books.