Turning Pages, Building Communities: Nidhi Gupta on the Evolving World of Reading

Turning Pages, Building Communities: Nidhi Gupta on the Evolving World of Reading

In a time when attention spans are shrinking and digital content dominates, the enduring power of books continues to find new ways to resonate. At the helm of Crossword Bookstores, Nidhi Gupta has spent over 15 years shaping not just a retail brand, but a thriving reading culture. In this conversation, she reflects on her personal relationship with books, the shifting habits of modern readers, and why bookstores today are as much about community as they are about commerce. 

You’ve spent over 15 years shaping Crossword’s journey. What role have books played in your own life, and which titles or authors have deeply influenced you personally and professionally?

I’ve always shared a deep connection with books. They hold many roles in our lives, serving as companions, guiding us as teachers, and opening windows to perspectives we might never otherwise experience. Growing up, reading helped shape my curiosity and empathy, and over the years, it’s become integral to how I think and make decisions. I’ve been deeply influenced by authors who combine storytelling with insight, whether it’s literary fiction that explores human complexity or business writing that sharpens perspective. Professionally, books have taught me the importance of staying adaptable and constantly learning, which is essential in an ever-evolving industry like ours.

In an age of short-form digital content and shrinking attention spans, how do you see the culture of reading evolving, especially among younger audiences in India?

While it’s true that attention spans are being challenged, I don’t believe the desire to read has diminished. Younger audiences today are discovering stories in new ways, whether through curated recommendations, social media, or genre-driven communities. What’s encouraging is that when the right book reaches the right reader, the engagement is still deeply immersive. We’re also seeing a shift toward more accessible formats, relatable storytelling, and diverse voices, which is making reading feel more inclusive and relevant than ever before.

Crossword has positioned itself as more than just a bookstore. How important are community spaces, book events, and author interactions in keeping the reading ecosystem vibrant today?

They are absolutely essential. Bookstores today are not just retail spaces; they are cultural hubs. Community-driven experiences like author interactions, workshops, and reading sessions bring stories to life and create meaningful connections between readers and writers. These spaces foster discovery, conversation, and a shared love for books, which is something digital platforms cannot fully replicate. At Crossword, we see firsthand how these interactions inspire new readers and deepen existing relationships with books.

With the rapid rise of e-books, audiobooks, and digital platforms, what do you believe the future of book publishing and bookselling will look like in the coming decade?

The future is not about one format replacing another; it’s about coexistence. Each format serves a different purpose depending on the reader’s lifestyle and preferences. While digital formats will continue to grow, physical books hold a unique, tactile appeal that remains irreplaceable. I believe the industry will become more hybrid, more data-informed, and more reader-centric. For booksellers, the focus will be on creating curated, experience-led environments that go beyond transactions and truly celebrate the joy of reading.

For aspiring readers or those trying to build a reading habit, what practical advice would you give when it comes to choosing books and staying consistent with reading?

Start with what genuinely interests you. There’s no “right” or “wrong” book to begin with. The key is to make reading feel enjoyable rather than obligatory. Even setting aside 10–15 minutes a day can make a difference. It also helps to explore recommendations, join reading communities, or visit bookstores where you can browse and discover organically. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to put down a book if it doesn’t resonate. Reading should always feel like a pleasure, not a task.

Rapid Fire

One book you believe everyone should read at least once in their lifetime?

It’s hard to choose just one, but a timeless classic that offers perspective on life and human nature is always a great starting point.

Your favourite genre to unwind with after a long day?

Contemporary fiction, something immersive yet comforting.

Physical books, e-books, or audiobooks: your personal pick and why?

Physical books, without a doubt. There’s something about the tactile experience, the feel of the pages, the act of turning them, that makes reading more personal and immersive for me.

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