In the heart of the Indian capital, the 53rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair unfolds from 10 to 18 January 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan. Bringing together thousands of publishers, intellectuals, and readers under one roof, the fair stands as one of the most prominent annual cultural events on the international stage. Organised by the National Book Trust of India in collaboration with the India Trade Promotion Organisation, the event underscores its role as a key driver of publishing and cultural dialogue in the region.
Spanning a vast exhibition space, the fair hosts more than 3,000 stands with the participation of over 1,000 publishers from more than 50 countries. Around 600 diverse events are scheduled, including panel discussions, writers’ forums, book signings, and a wide range of cultural performances catering to visitors of all ages. The fair welcomes the public daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., offering an open and vibrant space for cultural exchange.
This year’s edition is held under the theme “History of the Indian Army – Valour and Wisdom”, marking the 75th anniversary of India’s Republic Day. The theme forms the central axis of the fair through dedicated pavilions that highlight stories of courage, strategy, and the human dimensions of India’s military experience over seven decades, transforming the event into more than a book fair, into a space for reflection on national history and the journey of independence.
Alongside printed books, the fair also offers an engaging digital experience through a dedicated platform providing more than 6,000 free e-books in multiple languages, with advanced features for digital reading. The programme further includes children’s zones with interactive workshops and reading sessions designed to nurture a love of books among younger generations, as well as an international pavilion showcasing literary experiences from across cultures, reinforcing the fair’s role as an inspiring global festival that fosters the exchange of ideas and knowledge across borders.
