Book lovers browse through a collection of books at the National book fair following its inauguration by Deputy Chief Minister Brijresh pathak at balrampur garden on thursday
Ahmedabad: A poetry symposium dedicated to Gujarati poet Niranjan Bhagat, devotional music presented in a contemporary style, folk comedy and ghazal performances will be among the highlights of the Ahmedabad International Book Festival 2026, organised by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) at Sabarmati Riverfront Event Centre from Oct 24 to Nov 1. The festival will open with a ‘Kavi Sammelan’ commemorating the birth centenary of Niranjan Bhagat, a noted poet, critic and translator who received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1999. The Oct 25 programme will feature ‘Riverfront Retreat’, followed by ‘Shabda Symphony’ on Oct 26 and the Gujarati folk comedy play ‘Jithro Bhabho’ on Oct 27. On Oct 28, Osman Mir and Aamir Mir will present ‘Bhajan Clubbing’, blending traditional devotional music with folk-rock elements. ‘Hasya Rang’, celebrating Gujarati humour and comedy, is scheduled for Oct 29. The Oct 30 session, ‘Sahitya Mane Game Chhe’, will explore literature’s role in everyday life. A ghazal evening will follow on Oct 31, while patriotic songs under ‘Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani’ will bring the festival to a close on Nov 1.
Renowned poets, literary figures, musicians and performers will participate in theme-based programmes, with special performances scheduled on the main stage every evening.