The World Book Fair is set to take place in the capital from 1st to 9th February at Bharat Mandapam. The event will allow free entry for students who are disabled, elderly, or in traditional dress. For others, tickets are priced at Rs 20 for adults and Rs 10 for children.
Exciting Features of the Fair
Yuvraj Malik, the director of the National Book Trust (NBT), shared in a press conference that this year’s fair promises to be larger and better than ever. It will not only celebrate books and literature but also focus on India’s aspirations and bright future. People from 50 countries are expected to participate, and over 2,000 publishers will set up stalls. There will be a special pavilion for children and numerous cultural programs throughout the event. The theme this year is “We are the people of India.”
Inauguration by the President
President Draupadi Murmu will inaugurate the fair on Saturday. More than 2,000 publishers and over 1,000 speakers are expected to attend. Notably, Russia will be the guest country this year. Russian writer Alexi Waralamov stated that Russian publishers will showcase over 1,500 books that highlight the country’s history, culture, and literature. The fair will also feature an ‘International Events Corner’ for book releases, discussions, reading sessions, film performances, and workshops, with participation from writers and speakers from various countries.
Essential Information
– **Time:** 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
– **Location:** Hall 2-6, Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan)
– **Entrance Gate:** Gate-10 (near Metro Station), Gate No-4 (Bhairon Road), Gate No-3
– **Nearest Metro Station:** Supreme Court
– **Shuttle Service:** Available from Gate No-10
Notable Attendees
The World Book Fair will also welcome prominent figures from various fields, including literature, governance, technology, art, and cinema. Notable attendees include actors like Pankaj Tripathi, PhoneSokh Ladakhi, Pushpesh Pant, Shashi Tharoor, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Govind Dholakia, Kumar Vishwas, and director Prakash Jha, who will engage with the audience in different sessions.
