Bhubaneswar: The 8th Odisha State Book Festival will be held at the IDCO Exhibition Ground in Unit-3, Bhubaneswar, from December 4 to 14, 2026. The state government has invited applications from publishers, booksellers and other interested business entities wishing to participate in the event.
According to the festival guidelines, interested participants can download the prescribed application form from the website of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department and submit it either by email to the designated address or in person at the Odisha Sahitya Akademi office.
Organised by the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, the festival will offer stalls to participating publishers and booksellers at subsidised rates. Each firm will be allowed to book a maximum of six stalls, subject to the prescribed terms and conditions.
The organisers have stated that stall allotment will be at their discretion and that applications may be accepted or rejected without assigning any reason. Late applications will not be entertained.
The guidelines prohibit the sale of non-reading products, including toys, mugs, crockery, clothing, footwear, bags, key chains, stationery and handicraft items. The sale or display of pirated books and materials prohibited under Indian law is also strictly forbidden.
The distribution of free books, promotional leaflets and pamphlets is prohibited. Exhibitors who violate these rules may be asked to vacate their stalls or face penalties, according to the guidelines.
Participants have been instructed not to display books, products, banners or standees outside their allotted stalls. Violations of this rule will attract a penalty equivalent to 20 per cent of the stall rental, along with the issuance of a penalty notice.
The organisers have also directed exhibitors to make their own arrangements for insurance against losses arising from fire, floods, storms, riots and other specified risks. Participants will be responsible for ensuring that all materials displayed or sold at their stalls comply with applicable laws, including copyright provisions.
Meanwhile, literary organisations and booksellers interested in organising programmes on the main stage or small stage within the festival premises have been asked to contact the Odisha Sahitya Akademi in advance. The final decision regarding stage bookings and programme dates will rest with the Akademi.
The organisers have reserved the right to postpone, modify or cancel the festival in the event of a natural disaster or other circumstances warranting such action. As specified in the guidelines, no cancellation, refund or adjustment will be permitted after the last date for stall booking.
