Among the world’s largest literary gatherings dedicated to books and knowledge, the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 is set to return with its 53rd edition. The fair is being organised by the National Book Trust, under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Scheduled to be held from January 10 to January 18, 2026, the event will take place at Bharat Mandapam, across Halls 2 to 6 in New Delhi. Entry to the fair will be completely free for all visitors.
This year’s theme has been announced as “Indian Military History – Valour and Wisdom@75.” Qatar has been declared the Guest of Honour, while Spain will be the Focus Country for the 2026 edition.
New Delhi World Book Fair 2026: Key Highlights
- Organiser: National Book Trust, India
- Dates: January 10 to January 18, 2026
- Timings: 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Venue: Bharat Mandapam, Halls 2–6, New Delhi
- Entry: Completely free
- Theme: Indian Military History – Valour and Wisdom@75
- Guest of Honour: Qatar
- Focus Country: Spain
- Participation: 1,000+ publishers, 3,000+ stalls
- Special Focus: Children, international dialogues, cultural programmes
- Digital Initiative: 6,000+ free e-books under the National Digital Library
New Delhi World Book Fair 2026: Date, Time and Venue
Organised by the National Book Trust, the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 will be held from January 10 to January 18, 2026. The venue for the event is Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, covering Halls 2 to 6.
The fair will remain open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. The nearest metro station to the venue is Supreme Court Metro Station, providing convenient access for visitors.
Entry and Ticket Information
Entry to the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 has been kept completely free. Book lovers can directly visit Bharat Mandapam without requiring any ticket.
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Visitors will get the opportunity not only to explore a vast range of books but also to interact with authors, participate in discussions, and engage in various literary activities — all without any entry fee.
This Year’s Theme: Indian Military History – Valour and Wisdom@75
The theme for the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 has been set as “Indian Military History – Valour and Wisdom@75.”
According to a Caleidoscope report, the theme aims to highlight India’s military bravery, strategic thinking, courage, and philosophical depth. The report further notes that the fair seeks to bridge the gap between civilian life and military history by presenting the human and strategic dimensions of India’s defence journey over the past 75 years.
Qatar as Guest of Honour, Spain as Focus Country
Qatar has been selected as the Qatar Guest of Honour at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026. Through this, the fair will showcase Arabic literary traditions and the storytelling heritage of the Middle East.
In addition, Spain has been named the Focus Country for this year, highlighting European literary trends and the global influence of the Spanish language.
Over 1,000 Publishers and More Than 3,000 Stalls
The 2026 edition will witness participation from over 1,000 publishers, with more than 3,000 stalls set up across the venue.
Visitors will find a wide range of academic journals, regional literature, independent publications, comics, and books in multiple languages. Organisers state that the fair has been designed to cater to readers of all age groups and interests.
Children’s Pavilion and International Dialogues
A dedicated Children’s Pavilion has been created to promote reading habits among children and young readers.
The pavilion will host storytelling sessions, workshops, and interactions with children’s authors. Alongside this, an International Events Corner will facilitate discussions among global delegates on publishing trends and translation rights.
CEO Forum and Cultural Performances
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 will also host a high-level forum for CEOs and senior professionals from the publishing industry.
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Discussions at the forum will focus on topics such as artificial intelligence, digital publishing, and sustainability. Beyond books, the fair will feature daily music, dance, and theatre performances, reflecting the cultural diversity of India and the guest countries.
Special Offering by the National Digital Library
The National Digital Library, a digital initiative of the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education, will offer more than 6,000 free e-books during the fair.
The initiative aims to make quality digital books accessible across different languages, subjects, and learning levels.
A Confluence of Knowledge, Culture and Dialogue
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 is not merely a book exhibition but a platform for knowledge, culture, and global dialogue.
From children and general readers to researchers and authors, the event seeks to bring the world of literature and ideas closer to everyone. With free entry, diverse programmes, and international participation, it stands among the most significant cultural events of 2026.
Beyond Books: Understanding the True Purpose of Life
Reading books enriches knowledge, ideas, and perspectives, and such literary events strengthen the culture of reading. However, an equally important question arises: what is the true purpose of human life? Beyond worldly literature, the study of spiritual books and religious scriptures encourages deeper reflection on existence and life’s ultimate goal.
Texts such as the Vedas, Puranas, Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, the Bible, the Holy Quran, and Guru Granth Sahib convey that human life is meant not only for material achievements but also for spiritual growth and the search for truth. According to Tatvadarshi Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj, understanding scriptures under proper guidance leads one to the knowledge of the Supreme God, where the cycle of birth and death comes to an end. Through such spiritual wisdom, individuals can attain true welfare and fulfillment in life.
For more information visit:
- Website: www.jagatgururampalji.org
- YouTube: Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj
- Facebook: Spiritual Leader Saint Rampal Ji
- X (Twitter): @SaintRampalJiM
FAQs on New Delhi World Book Fair 2026
Q1. When will the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 be held?
January 10 to January 18, 2026.
Q2. Where will the fair take place?
At Bharat Mandapam, Halls 2 to 6, New Delhi.
Q3. Is an entry ticket required for the fair?
No, entry is completely free.
Q4. What is the theme for this year’s fair?
Indian Military History – Valour and Wisdom@75.
Q5. Who are the Guest of Honour and Focus Country?
Qatar is the Guest of Honour, and Spain is the Focus Country.
