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The New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 concluded on January 18 on a high note, with a record footfall of over two million visitors over nine days, as book lovers across age groups thronged the venue on the final day. From early morning, exhibition halls witnessed heavy movement of families, students, young readers and senior citizens, with visitors taking advantage of discounts offered by publishers and booksellers. Exhibitors reported brisk sales on the concluding day, attributing the surge to attractive price cuts and the weekend rush.

"It's so heartening to see thousands of people turning up here — around two million in footfall over the last nine days. I think we can proudly say that we have been able to bring people closer to books , literature, art, culture and the festivity around content. The way people are buying books is encouraging, it shows that the reading culture is being revived. It is a myth that the younger generation and Gen Z are stuck to their handsets. After seeing people buying books here, it is clear that they are not too attached to their gadgets. They have a very deep desire to read, and we need to present books to them in a meaningful way and from the right perspective,” National Book Trust (NBT) Director Yuvraj Malik said.

Malik observed that strong book purchases during the fair pointed to a revival of reading habits, particularly among younger readers. He underlined that the widespread belief that Gen Z being disengaged from books was misplaced, adding that the response demonstrated a deep desire to read when content is presented meaningfully. "We want to create more platforms for young authors. We are surprised to see hundreds of young authors, first-time authors and schoolchildren who are authors. Therefore, we will definitely create a children's author platform for these upcoming young writers," he added.

Sales rose sharply on the final day, with most stocks being cleared, reflecting strong interest among readers, particularly the youth, and reaffirming that the habit of reading remains robust. The concluding day also witnessed heavy participation in book launches, panel discussions and interactive sessions with authors. The Kavi Sammelan organised by the Rekhta Foundation emerged as a major attraction, drawing large crowds and adding a poetic dimension to the closing celebrations.

The fair saw participation from over 50 countries, with Qatar as the Guest of Honour and Spain as the Focus Country. Books were displayed in over 30 languages, including Hindi, English and several Indian regional languages recognised under the Constitution. The digital initiative Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya expanded access to literature by offering more than 6,000 eBooks in over 23 languages, while international pavilions showcased works in Arabic, Spanish, Russian, French and Japanese. Children-centric programmes at the Bal Mandap continued to draw young audiences through storytelling sessions, creative workshops and educational activities, making the fair a popular family destination until its closing day.