New Delhi, 15th January 2026: Asia’s biggest book festival, the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026, has also emerged as a key spot for youngsters to spend time, enjoying snacks, beating the winter chill while sitting on green grass with a cup of coffee, and a stress-free outing with friends, besides picking books by their favourite authors.
Generally, the January cold also cools down studies in Delhi University colleges, allowing an escape for students, who are considered the potential buyers of Indian as well as global literature, and free entry has turned the situation into the icing on the cake.
“We were planning a casual outing, but as we are all students, we decided to come here. I have a keen interest in literature and I love Urdu poetry. So, I found this place ideal to spend some time with friends and pursue my hobby,” said Rachit, a Hindi literature student at Ramjas College.
“Free entry made it easy for us to choose the destination, as there are no long queues at all,” he said.
Besides mixed groups, all-girls’ and all-boys’ groups can also be spotted enjoying their favourite food. Some preferred staple items over global brands to feel a sense of indigeneity.
“Usually, vada pav is the most sought-after food for Mumbaikars but here in Delhi, it’s considered unique, we all have ordered the same,” said Tanishqa, who came to visit the fair along with her four friends and was waiting for her order.
“It tastes better with cold drinks even in winter,” she said with a smile.
The fair is being held at Bharat Mandapam and will continue until January 18. Over 1,000 publishers from more than 35 countries are participating in the event, where nearly 1,000 speakers, including authors, scholars, artists and public figures, share their views and experiences. With more than 600 literary, educational and cultural events, the fair is open to the public every day from 11 am to 8 pm.
“The number of youth visitors is progressively increasing, which is encouraging. Youngsters come and spend their day participating in various events, including literary and theme-oriented ones. Book sales have also increased, indicating a reading trend among Gen Z,” said an official spokesperson, adding that they are prepared to host a huge crowd on weekends as the fair is concluding on Sunday.
The fair is themed on the Indian Army, titled “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom@75”, with an aim to pay tribute to the armed forces.
