Constructed primarily using bamboo, it reflected a dialogue between contemporary French design and Indian vernacular traditions. Designed by Studio Archohm in collaboration with The Design Village, the structure was conceived as a narrative space where architecture itself tells a story - of memory, renewal and creativity.The key highlight of France's programme was the session titled The Future of Books, featuring a conversation between Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, and Yuvraj Malik, director of the National Book Trust. The discussion explored how publishing was adapting to changing reading habits, the role of innovation in sustaining reading cultures and the importance of international collaboration in shaping the global book ecosystem.Addressing the audience, Ambassador Mathou said literature continued to play a vital role in fostering dialogue and understanding between nations. He noted that France's participation in the book fair was aimed at celebrating shared values of creativity and sustainability while strengthening cultural ties between India and France. The pavillion, he said, symbolised this commitment, bringing together publishers, authors, translators and innovators from both countries.

Led by the French Institute in India in collaboration with France Livres - The French Publishing Network, France's presence at NDWBF 2026 includes book launches, professional exchanges and discussions focused on the future of publishing. Nearly a thousand books are displayed across modular bamboo units inside the pavillion, arranged in soft shades of blue, white and red that subtly reference the French tricolour.

The choice of bamboo was deliberate. Deeply rooted in the Indian culture and historically linked to the making of books and writing tools, the material underscored shared concerns around sustainability and responsible design. The open layout encouraged visitors to pause, browse and engage, transforming the pavillion into a space for conversation rather than mere display.

Alongside a French-language bookshop operated by Oxford Bookstore, visitors could explore a curated selection of French works in English translation under the Pardon My French! banner. The collection showcased the breadth of contemporary French literature now accessible to Indian readers.

One of the most anticipated moments of the French programme was the launch of new Indian editions of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Adapted by Anushka Ravishankar, illustrated by Priya Kuriyan and published by Pratham Books, the editions were released in English, Hindi and Tamil. First published in 1943, the classic has sold more than 140 million copies worldwide and been translated into over 600 languages and dialects.

At a fair dedicated to books and ideas, France's pavilion stood as a reminder that storytelling, like architecture, bridges past and future, rooted in heritage, while constantly reinventing itself.

Fair continues to draw book lovers

New Delhi: The New Delhi World Book Fair continued to draw book lovers in large numbers on its fifth day, with international conversations, public figures and a diverse range of sessions underscoring the fair's growing global character. From diplomacy and literature to youth, compassion and maritime history, the day unfolded as a wide-ranging exploration of ideas across cultures and generations.

The International Pavilion emerged as a focal point, hosting discussions that linked literature with history and diplomacy. Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi drew a packed audience.

The Theme Pavilion hosted sessions on India's maritime history and security. Children, meanwhile, found their own space at Kidz Express. The day concluded on a high note with a lively performance by the Indian Navy Band.