One of India's premier literary celebrations, the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF), is set to return for its much-anticipated 53rd edition. Organized by the National Book Trust India, which operates under the Ministry of Education, this event promises to be a grand congregation for bibliophiles, authors, and publishers from across the globe.
Dates, Venue, and Ticketing Details
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 will be held from January 10 to January 18. The venue for this expansive literary festival is the state-of-the-art Halls 2-6 of the Bharat Mandapam in the national capital. The fair will be open to visitors daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
In excellent news for book lovers, entry to the fair is completely free of charge. Visitors can simply walk into the Bharat Mandapam and immerse themselves in a world filled with books, author interactions, and cultural programs without any ticket.
Theme and International Focus
The 2026 edition of the fair is built around the powerful theme: “Indian Military History – Valour and Wisdom@75.” This theme aims to explore and contextualize narratives of courage, strategic thinking, and philosophical reflection drawn from India's defence history over the past 75 years. It seeks to bridge the understanding between civilian life and the nation's military legacy.
On the international front, Qatar has been accorded the 'Guest of Honour' status. This partnership will bring the rich tapestry of Arabic literature and Middle Eastern storytelling traditions to the heart of New Delhi. Additionally, Spain has been designated as the 'Focus Country,' promising to showcase the vibrancy of European literary trends and the global influence of the Spanish language.
Beyond Books: Digital Initiatives and Diverse Attractions
A major digital highlight at the fair will be the Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya initiative. This digital library, spearheaded by the Department of School Education and Literacy, will offer access to over 6,000 quality eBooks for free, covering a wide range of genres and languages beyond standard academic curricula.
The fair is far more than just books on display. With participation from over 1,000 publishers and more than 3,000 stalls, it caters to every niche imaginable. Special attractions include:
- A dedicated Children’s Pavilion with storytelling, workshops, and meet-and-greets with children's authors.
- An International Events corner for global publishing dialogues.
- A high-level forum for CEOs to discuss AI, digital publishing, and sustainability in the book industry.
- Daily music, dance, and theatrical performances celebrating Indian and international cultures.
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 stands as a testament to India's thriving literary culture, offering a unique blend of knowledge, tradition, and innovation for all ages.
