Readers, booksellers and publishers across India came together on Monday to celebrate the 92nd birthday of one of the country’s most beloved authors, Ruskin Bond, with events held simultaneously at 92 bookstores across the country.

The nationwide celebration, coordinated by HarperCollins India, coincided with the release of Bond’s latest book, How to Laugh, a collection that encourages readers to find humour in everyday life and embrace laughter as a way of navigating challenges.

Known for his gentle storytelling and evocative portrayals of life in the hills, Bond has remained a favourite among generations of readers for more than six decades. The unique birthday initiative saw bookstores host cake-cutting ceremonies and special displays dedicated to the veteran author’s work.

Reflecting on the occasion, Bond said he was touched by the scale of the celebrations.

“With every passing year, publishers don’t just release new books around my birthday but also seem to come up with new and creative ways to celebrate the occasion. This year, HarperCollins organized a cake-cutting at 92 bookstores across India. That was quite a remarkable feat,” he said.

Booksellers described the celebrations as a tribute to an author whose stories continue to resonate with readers across age groups.

Zuber Baig of Delhi’s Midland Book Shop said Ruskin Bond’s books have occupied a special place on the store’s shelves since 1978.

“His stories have inspired generations of readers. It was a privilege to be among the 92 bookstores celebrating such a beloved literary icon. We look forward to many more books from him that will continue to delight readers,” Baig said.

Natasha Mehta of Sapna Book House said Bond’s work has been an integral part of readers’ lives for decades.

“For nearly 60 years, we have watched generations grow up with Ruskin Bond in their hands and hearts. Celebrating his 92nd birthday was deeply emotional because some writers become part of our childhood and our collective memory,” she said.

HarperCollins India, which publishes Bond’s books, said the author continues to enjoy an unmatched connection with readers.

Tina Narang, Executive Publisher at HarperCollins India, said the publisher was delighted to mark the occasion with celebrations across the country.

“It has been a privilege to publish Ruskin Bond and launch a new book around his birthday each year. We look forward to many more wonderful books and celebrations,” she said.

Nisha Singh, General Manager-Marketing at HarperCollins India, noted that despite rapid changes in the publishing industry, Bond remains one of the most recognisable names in Indian literature.

“For over six decades, Ruskin Bond has remained one of India’s most beloved authors. His timeless storytelling continues to be cherished across generations, and readers of all ages instantly connect with his work,” she said.

The celebrations highlighted Bond’s enduring popularity and the unique place he occupies in India’s literary landscape, with readers continuing to discover—and rediscover—his stories well into his ninth decade as a writer.