The53rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2026, considered the world’s largest literary fair, began on Saturday at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, marking the start of a major cultural and intellectual gathering celebrating books, ideas, and global exchange. Organised by theNational Book Trust (NBT), India, under theMinistry of Education, Government of India, the fair will continue untilJanuary 18, 2026. 

In a historic first, entry to the fair has been madecompletely free for the general public, a step aimed at encouraging wider participation and promoting a stronger reading culture across the country. The mega event has drawn participation fromover 35 countries, featuringmore than 1,000 publishers,3,000-plus exhibition stalls, andaround 600 literary and cultural programmes, with the involvement ofover 1,000 authors, thinkers, and speakers, making it one of the largest literary gatherings in the world.

The fair was inaugurated byUnion Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhanat Bharat Mandapam. The central theme for this year,‘Indian Military History: Valour & Wisdom @ 75’, pays tribute to the courage, strategic excellence, and sacrifices of India’s armed forces by showcasing key historical milestones and narratives that have shaped the nation’s defence legacy.

Adding a strong international dimension to the event,Qatarhas been named theGuest of Honour, whileSpainhas been designated as theFocus Country, offering diverse global literary and cultural perspectives to Indian readers.

With its expansive scale, inclusive access, and rich thematic focus, the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 is expected to emerge as a landmark event for readers, writers, publishers, and intellectuals, reinforcing India’s growing stature as a global centre for literary and cultural exchange.