Book lovers have a reason to rejoice as the World Book Fair begins today at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, with free entry being offered for the first time. The much-awaited literary event promises a rich experience for readers of all ages, with special attractions for children, interactive sessions with renowned authors, and a wide range of historical and contemporary literature.
Organised by the National Book Trust (NBT), the fair is spread across Halls 2 to 6 of Bharat Mandapam and will remain open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. Visitors can enter through Gates No. 4 and 10. Those travelling by metro are advised to deboard at Supreme Court Metro Station, from where free shuttle bus services are available, especially from Gate No. 10.
Special Focus on Children
A major highlight of this year’s fair is the specially curated ‘Kids’ Express’ Pavilion, set up in Hall No. 6 over an area of nearly 750 square metres. Designed for students from Classes 1 to 12, the pavilion will host day-long learning-through-play activities. Children will participate in musical storytelling, puppet-making workshops, clay play, cartoon design sessions, and various art forms such as Madhubani and Warli painting.
Interactive sessions with well-known authors and storytellers, children’s writing workshops, and meetings with young writers are also part of the daily schedule, encouraging creativity and reading habits among school students.
Literature with Historical Significance
The World Book Fair will also showcase rare and significant publications linked to India’s freedom struggle. Notably, literature that was confiscated or destroyed by British colonial authorities between 1860 and 1920 has been republished and will be displayed at the fair, offering readers a glimpse into suppressed voices of history.
Facilities for Visitors
To ensure convenience, medical facilities have been arranged, with a dispensary located in front of Hall No. 5. Free shuttle services using tempo travellers will operate continuously from Gate No. 10 to Halls 5 and 6, and from Gate No. 3 to Hall No. 3. Senior citizens, women and children will be given priority in these services.
Parking facilities are available at government-approved rates in the Pragati Maidan basement and near the Bhairon Temple for visitors arriving by car or two-wheeler.
With free entry, engaging programmes for children, historical publications and interactions with eminent writers, the World Book Fair 2026 is set to be a vibrant celebration of books, ideas and learning for the people of Delhi and beyond.
Discover more from SD NEWS agency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.