The second last day of the New Delhi World Book Fair turned into a vibrant celebration of India’s rich cultural and artistic heritage, as a series of classical and folk dance performances, along with eye-catching defence displays, captivated thousands of visitors on the weekend.
The fair witnessed a massive footfall owing to the weekend rush, with families, students and tourists thronging the venue from early morning. Cultural programmes featuring Bharatanatyam, Kathak and Bihu dances added colour and rhythm to the day, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted traditions and regional diversity.
Graceful Bharatanatyam performances showcased intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures and storytelling rooted in ancient temple traditions of Tamil Nadu, while Kathak recitals mesmerised audiences with swift spins, rhythmic foot movements and narrative elegance associated with northern India. Performers were repeatedly applauded for blending classical discipline with contemporary appeal, making the art forms accessible to younger audiences.
Equally engaging was the lively Bihu dance from Assam, which brought the festive spirit of eastern India alive on stage. With energetic movements and traditional music, the performance highlighted agrarian celebrations linked to harvest and renewal, drawing enthusiastic participation and loud cheers from the crowd.
Children emerged as the most enthusiastic audience throughout the day, many watching live classical and folk performances for the first time. Several parents were seen explaining the cultural significance of the dances to their children, turning the experience into an informal learning session beyond books and classrooms.
Apart from cultural performances, defence displays proved to be a major attraction and, for many visitors, stole the show. Exhibits showcasing equipment, uniforms and informational panels by the armed forces drew long queues, especially among youngsters. Children were seen eagerly posing for photographs, interacting with defence personnel and asking questions about life in the armed forces, reflecting growing curiosity and respect for India’s defence services.
Officials said the combination of literature, culture and national pride has been one of the defining features of this year’s fair. The seamless integration of books with live performances and interactive displays has helped broaden the fair’s appeal beyond avid readers.
