Soldiers Steal the Spotlight at World Book Fair
New Delhi: A smiling, armed sniper standing beside an Indian Army combat vehicle patiently answers questions from visitors—especially children—poses for memorable selfies, and explains how the weapons function, while firmly refusing to let anyone touch the rifles. The scene looks straight out of a Bollywood film, but it is very much real at the 53rd World Book Fair currently underway at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Organised by the National Book Trust, this year’s World Book Fair has been dedicated to India’s brave soldiers with the theme “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom @75”, aimed at instilling a sense of patriotism among Generation Z.
The theme pays tribute to the legacy, courage and sacrifices of India’s armed forces. The 1,000-square-metre theme pavilion in Hall 5 offers a striking visual experience, featuring more than 500 books that narrate stories of military bravery and lived experiences. Specially curated posters and documentaries captivate visitors, while replicas of the Arjun tank, INS Vikrant and LCA Tejas, along with a photo gallery honouring the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, remain major attractions.
Diksha, a second-year student of Hindu College, Delhi University, said, “It’s a unique combination of books and weapons. One teaches us dignity, while the other gives us the strength to protect that dignity.”
She added, “As we move towards becoming a global power, a strong economy gives us confidence before the world, but a strong and well-equipped army ensures that this confidence is protected. A country’s borders draw a line between us and others, and it is the soldier who risks his life to safeguard that line. That is why we must respect our armed forces.”
Visitors also get the rare opportunity to listen to veterans such as Lieutenant General (Retd) KJS Dhillon, author of the widely acclaimed book ‘Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye’, which recounts experiences from counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir. Young visitors appear especially eager to learn about untold stories—whether related to historic wars or modern military operations.
Former soldiers, too, are playing a vital role in changing perceptions. They warmly share their experiences, answer questions and happily pose for photographs, even lifting children in their arms. The aim is to bridge the gap between civilians and security forces without compromising the dignity of the Indian Army.
Inspiring the younger generation is seen as the most effective way to sow the seeds of patriotism. The Bal Mandapam, dedicated to children’s activities, echoes the same theme. As children gaze at posters and exhibits showcasing the pride of the Indian Army, they often ask with excitement, “Uncle, can I hold your gun once?”—a request the snipers politely but firmly decline.
Eight-year-old Advik, expressing his fascination with the Indian Army, said, “When we go out, I often buy toy guns. I play soldier games with my brother. One day, I want to become a soldier and hold a real gun.”