Pune, 8th July 2025: This December, Pune will transform into a haven for bibliophiles as the Pune Book Festival 2025 returns with renewed vigour and a theme that celebrates the “Joy of Reading.” Scheduled from December 13 to 21 at the historic Fergusson College, the festival is curated under the guidance of the National Book Trust (NBT) and promises an immersive experience combining literature, culture, and creativity.
Unlike a conventional book fair, this event is part of a national mission to foster a love for reading among young Indians. With Pune fast becoming a major literary hub, second only to Delhi, the city’s vibrant literary culture is now inspiring similar festivals in Nashik and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, following successful editions in Mumbai, Nagpur, and Pune.
NBT Director Yuvraj Malik shared exciting new additions for this year’s festival, including awards for outstanding media coverage and impactful photography that promote the value of reading in a tech-driven era. These initiatives aim to highlight and reward efforts that amplify the importance of literature in modern life.
Taking the joy of books beyond urban boundaries, the festival will also launch a mobile ‘book bus’ that will tour rural areas around Pune, bringing books directly to underserved communities. Additionally, visitors will enjoy free digital access to 3,000 titles, removing financial and logistical barriers to reading.
To uphold copyright standards, a special committee will monitor piracy and theft during the event. Dedicated exhibition spaces for Marathi, Hindi, and English books will reflect the city’s multilingual ethos, ensuring a rich and inclusive experience. With its broadened reach and innovative programs, the Pune Book Festival 2025 is more than an event, it’s a cultural movement to reconnect India with the power of books.