The 53rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair is set to open on January 10 at Bharat Mandapam , ushering in a landmark moment in India’s cultural calendar with free entry for all visitors for the first time . Organised by the National Book Trust (NBT), the nine-day event is expected to attract more than two million visitors , further cementing India’s standing as one of the world’s most vibrant publishing and literary hubs.
Theme Celebrating India’s Armed Forces
This year’s fair is centred on the theme “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom @75” , paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and nation-building contributions of the Indian armed forces since Independence. The theme pavilion will honour the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force through a rich display of more than 500 books , curated exhibitions, visual installations, posters, and documentaries.
Inspired by the legacy of the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun , the pavilion will trace major military milestones and highlight stories of leadership, strategy, and resilience that have shaped modern India.
Scale and Global Participation
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 will feature an impressive global footprint, bringing together over 1,000 publishers from more than 35 countries . Nearly 600 literary and cultural sessions involving around 1,000 speakers are scheduled across the fair’s duration.
This year, Qatar has been designated as the Guest of Honour Country , while Spain is the Focus Country . Publishers and cultural organisations from Russia, Japan, France, Iran, Hungary, Chile, and several other nations will also participate, reinforcing the fair’s global character.
Major Attractions and Special Exhibitions
Among the standout attractions will be large-scale replicas of iconic defence assets such as the Arjun Tank , INS Vikrant , and LCA Tejas , offering visitors a visual and educational insight into India’s defence capabilities. Special tributes will honour 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees , India’s highest gallantry award recipients.
Sessions at the fair will revisit key military operations from 1947 onwards , while additional exhibitions will commemorate 150 years of “Vande Mataram” and celebrate the life and legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel , highlighting his role in national integration.
Literary, Cultural, and Children’s Programmes
Beyond military history, the fair will host a wide range of literary and intellectual engagements. The international pavilion will feature book launches, poetry recitals, and panel discussions on contemporary themes such as artificial intelligence, migration, gaming, and cultural heritage. Directors of major international book fairs, along with prominent authors, thinkers, and public figures, are expected to take part.
Special emphasis has been placed on young readers. Dedicated children’s programmes will include storytelling sessions, theatre performances, creative workshops, and interactive activities. Evenings will come alive with cultural performances by folk artists and official military bands, blending literature with music and tradition.
Why This Edition Matters
With free entry, expanded international participation, and a theme that connects literature with national history and values, the 53rd New Delhi World Book Fair marks a significant evolution of the event. It not only promotes reading and publishing but also serves as a platform for cultural dialogue, historical reflection, and public engagement.
Month: Current Affairs - January 09, 2026
Category: national significance