I visited the New Delhi World Book Fair recently, and honestly, it felt like walking into a celebration of stories, ideas, and imagination. This year, what truly stood out was the free entry, something that brought in an incredible mix of readers—students, families, authors, and book lovers from all walks of life. The energy was vibrant, halls buzzing with curiosity and excitement.
At the same time, many readers I spoke to shared a common feeling—while entry was free, there should be more concessions on book prices. Books should be affordable so that more readers can truly follow their passion. After all, reading should never feel like a luxury; it should be within everyone’s reach.
The 53rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair began on 10th January at Bharat Mandapam and will continue till 18th January. Organised by the National Book Trust (NBT) under the Ministry of Education, with India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) as co-organiser, the fair is being billed as the world’s largest B2C book fair. With over 1,000 publishers from 35+ countries, the scale itself is awe-inspiring.
This year’s theme, “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom @75,” adds a powerful and emotional layer to the experience. The Theme Pavilion, spread across 1,000 square metres, offers a stunning 360-degree immersive journey through India’s military legacy. Replicas of the Arjun Tank, INS Vikrant, and LCA Tejas, along with tributes to Param Vir Chakra awardees, make the space both educational and deeply moving.
International participation was strong and visible everywhere. Qatar, the Guest of Honour, and Spain, the Focus Country, brought rich cultural and literary flavours, joined by publishers and delegates from countries like France, Japan, Russia, and Poland. The fair also hosts 600+ events and over 1,000 speakers, making every visit feel like you’re missing something wonderful in the next hall.
One of the most inspiring moments I witnessed was the interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to travel to the International Space Station. Addressing a packed gathering of schoolchildren, he spoke with warmth and clarity, urging young minds to use technology wisely, to read more, and to explore knowledge through books and podcasts. His recommendation of Wings of Fire by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam instantly lit up the room.
What stayed with me most was his powerful thought—that fear and excitement are two sides of the same coin, and that we should always choose excitement. It was a moment that didn’t just inspire children but touched every listener present.
With dedicated pavilions for children, digital reading, and the publishing industry, along with cultural performances by the Army, Navy, and Air Force bands, the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 truly feels like more than an event—it feels like a movement. A reminder that books still matter, stories still connect us, and reading continues to shape minds and futures.
I left the fair with heavy bags, a lighter heart, and the hope that books become even more accessible—because when books reach more people, imagination has no limits.
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