World Book Fair 2026 Descends into Chaos as Crowds Snatch Books
Literature lovers have always cherished book fairs. Libraries, exhibitions, and bookstores celebrate books for centuries. Every year, literary events showcase hundreds of book varieties. They attract massive crowds of avid readers.
This year, the World Book Fair 2026 took place at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. It ran from January 10 to January 18. However, the event made headlines for unexpected reasons. The fair's diverse book collection was overshadowed by chaotic scenes.
Book Madness Turns into Free-for-All Frenzy
What began as a joyful celebration quickly turned into chaos. The crowd's enthusiasm spiraled out of control. Several viral videos captured the frenzy. People attempted to grab books directly from the shelves.
One video showed hordes gathered at a stall. They hopped to snatch books, ignoring all order and decorum. Individuals raised their hands high to reach for books. One man stood elevated, stretching towards books on a high shelf near a sign.
Social Media Reacts with Shock and Criticism
People on social media expressed dismay at the scenes. One user wrote on X, formerly Twitter. They said, "What is wrong with us? Last day of the book fair in Delhi and look at the scenes. Moral collapse."
Another comment read, "These are apparently so-called well-read and educated people. Indians skip civics at every moment. We instantly become animals if we get the opportunity to steal something."
A third user noted, "A place meant to promote reading, learning and values… turned into a reminder of why those books are needed in the first place."
A fourth user simply described it as, "Seems like a fish market."
Highlights of the 53rd New Delhi World Book Fair
Despite the chaos, the fair featured significant attractions. The 53rd New Delhi World Book Fair highlighted military heritage and defence literature. Curated hardware exhibits drew strong interest.
Beyond books, the exhibition displayed live military equipment used in border deployments. Major attractions included the Arjun tank. A detailed replica of the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant also captivated visitors.
These exhibits showcased India's defence capabilities. They provided an educational experience alongside the literary offerings.
The World Book Fair 2026 ultimately presented a mixed picture. It celebrated literature and defence achievements. Yet, the chaotic book snatching scenes left a lasting impression. They sparked discussions about civility and the true purpose of such events.
