New Delhi World Book Fair set to open at Bharat Mandapam from January 10
The 53rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) is set to open its doors to the public from 10-18 January 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, promising a nine-day literary feast that is both monumental in scale and unprecedented in accessibility. Organised by the National Book Trust (NBT), India, the fair has, for the first time in its history, announced free entry for all visitors, fulfilling NBT’s commitment to make the reading habit universally accessible.
This year, the world’s biggest B2C book fair will pay a special tribute to the nation’s heroes. The central theme is “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom @75,” honouring the Indian Armed Forces’ contributions since Independence. The 1,000 sq metre Theme Pavilion will offer a 360-degree immersive experience, showcasing over 500 books, exhibits, and replicas of military hardware like the Arjun Tank and INS Vikrant, alongside tributes to Param Vir Chakra awardees. Over 100 theme-based events will feature talks by defence experts and war veterans.
NDWBF 2026 is poised to be a global confluence of literature, attracting over 2 million visitors and bringing together more than 1,000 publishers from 35+ countries. Qatar has been designated the Guest of Honour Country, and Spain the Focus Country. High-level dignitaries from both nations will join Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education, for the inauguration.
Other key highlights include the vibrant Children’s Pavilion, Kidz Express (Hall 6), and the Reading India Samvaad 2026, a national leadership dialogue aimed at advancing reading as a national priority in alignment with NEP 2020. The fair will also host a stellar line-up of authors and speakers, including Smriti Irani, Piyush Mishra, and Kailash Satyarthi, as part of the Festival of Festivals. With its diverse offerings, free access, and patriotic theme, NDWBF 2026 is set to nurture India’s growing reading culture and celebrate the best of global literature.
