WORLD BOOK DAY: Celebrating the Power of Reading

World Book Day, observed every year on April 23, is a global celebration of books, authors, and the joy of reading. Established by UNESCO, this day highlights the importance of literature in shaping minds, preserving culture, and promoting education. In 2026, World Book Day continues to inspire people of all ages to discover the magic hidden within the pages of books.

SLOGAN FOR 2026: “GO ALL IN”

This slogan is part of the National Year of Reading 2026 campaign and is strongly associated with World Book Day celebrations this year.

What does “Go All In” mean?
• It encourages people to fully engage with reading
• Connect books to personal interests like sports, gaming, or hobbies
• Promote reading for pleasure, not just for study
• Inspire deeper involvement with stories and learning

In simple words, the message is:
If you love something, read more about it and dive deeper into it through books.
Or, in other words: “If you’re into it, read into it.”

Books are more than just collections of words—they are gateways to knowledge, imagination, and creativity. From classic literature to modern stories, books allow readers to travel across time and space, experience different cultures, and understand diverse perspectives. On this day, schools, libraries, and communities organize reading events, book fairs, and storytelling sessions to encourage a lifelong love of reading.

In today’s digital age, where screens dominate our lives, World Book Day reminds us of the unique value of printed and written words. Reading not only improves language and communication skills but also enhances concentration, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. It plays a vital role in personal growth and lifelong learning.

World Book Day 2026 also emphasizes the importance of making books accessible to everyone. Efforts are made worldwide to donate books, support libraries, and promote literacy among underprivileged communities. By ensuring that everyone has access to books, we take a step toward building a more informed and empowered society.

LET US LOOK INTO SOME FAMOUS AUTHORS

The Discovery of India, written by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru during his imprisonment at Ahmednagar Fort (1942–1946) and published in 1946, is a seminal work chronicling India’s history, philosophy, and cultural heritage from antiquity to the British Raj. It offers a deeply personal and insightful analysis of India’s unity in diversity.

Books based on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s radio program “Mann Ki Baat” have been released on several occasions. Notably, the first book was released at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 26, 2017, to mark the government’s third anniversary in the presence of former President Pranab Mukherjee. Later, “Igniting Collective Goodness: Mann Ki Baat” (the third book) was launched in October 2023 by Amit Shah. These books highlight the country’s achievements, inspiring stories of citizens, and messages from the Prime Minister.

Dr. Ajit S. Puri presented his book “Speaking of How to Prevent Common Diseases” to the then Vice-President of India, Mohammed Hamid Ansari, at Vice-President House, New Delhi, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr (October 13, 2007). Also present was journalist Dr. Jaswant Singh Puri.

HISTORY IN YOUR POCKET – THE TRIBUNE

Dr. Jaswant Singh Puri

Dr. Jaswant Singh Puri’s book “Rise and Decline of the Mughal Empire” provides a detailed account of the Mughal era in India, highlighting the reign of major emperors from Babur to Aurangzeb.
Link: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/life-style/history-in-your-pocket-641184/

The book was also presented to His Holiness, Nobel Laureate the Dalai Lama at McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

Padma Shri Prof. R.L. Mittal’s authoritative book titled “Clubfoot: A Comprehensive Approach (Past, Present, and Future)”, published by Routledge (Taylor & Francis), provides detailed insights into epidemiology, genetics, and specialized surgical techniques related to clubfoot.

Noted academician and Sikh scholar Dr. Rattan Singh Jaggi received the Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu for his distinguished contribution to education and literature.

Noted physician and acclaimed writer Dr. Ajit S. Puri authored the internationally recognized book “Speaking of How to Prevent Common Diseases”, with a foreword by Lord Walton, former President of the British Medical Association. He has also written books on dengue, SARS, and bird flu, contributing significantly to public awareness during epidemics.

Link: https://royalpatiala.in/now-history-of-dera-babba-jassa-singh-book-is-available-in-english-too-dera/

This book explores the spirituality of enlightened saints associated with Dera Baba Jassa Singh. Originally written in Punjabi by Professor Jasbir Singh, it was later translated into English by Jaswant Singh Puri and is available free of cost at the Dera office.

Noted historian Dr. Ganda Singh authored “Perspective on Guru Amar Das, 3rd Sikh Master” (English, Punjabi, and Hindi editions, 1997).

Bhai Vir Singh (1872–1957) was a towering Punjabi poet, scholar, and theologian who modernized Punjabi literature and revitalized Sikh theology. Often called the “sixth river of Punjab,” he pioneered Punjabi novels, epic poetry, and journalism, and played a key role in the Singh Sabha movement.

Dalip Kaur Tiwana (1935–2020) was one of the foremost novelists and short story writers of contemporary Punjabi literature.

Dr. Taran Singh joined Punjabi University, Patiala, in 1966 and headed the Department of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Studies. He represented Sikhism globally and authored several books on Sikh thought and Punjabi literature.

Professor Harbans Singh was a renowned Punjabi scholar and editor-in-chief of the Encyclopaedia of Sikhism. His work “The Heritage of the Sikhs” remains highly influential.

Khushwant Singh was a celebrated Indian author, journalist, and lawyer known for his sharp wit and bold writing. His famous novel “Train to Pakistan” remains a classic.

Surjit Patar was a highly acclaimed Punjabi poet known for his profound and lyrical poetry, blending traditional and modern themes. He also served as President of the Punjab Sahit Academy.

CONCLUSION

World Book Day commemorates significant literary figures such as William Shakespeare, Jawaharlal Nehru, Narendra Modi, Miguel de Cervantes, Dalip Kaur Tiwana, Dr. Ajit S. Puri, Dr. Jaswant Singh Puri, and many others.

This day encourages both children and adults to appreciate literature. World Book Day is not just a celebration—it is a movement that inspires people to read, learn, and grow. It reminds us that books have the power to change lives, spark ideas, and create a better future for all.