India, with its diverse culture and rich history, has always been a hub for storytelling. From enchanting folklore to poignant biographies, the country’s literary landscape is as varied as it comes. As an aspiring author or a book enthusiast, you must understand who the key players are in India’s publishing industry.
Having a thorough knowledge of who publishes what can make all the difference when you’re looking to get your work out there or simply want to find books that cater to your taste. In fact, the right publisher can take a book from being good to great, ensuring it gets into the hands of readers who will truly appreciate it.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 book publishing companies in India. These are publishers that not only have an impressive catalogue but also offer unparalleled support to their authors. So whether you’re an established writer or just starting out on your literary journey, these publishing houses should definitely be on your radar.
Book Publishing Industry in India
- India’s print book market was valued at INR 720.6 billion (USD 8.8 billion) in 2019-2020.
- The market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 19.4% between 2023/2024 and 2025/2026.
- The Indian publishing industry was valued at over INR 500 billion in 2019, with a growth potential of INR 800 billion by 2024.
- India is among the top 6 publishers in the world and the second-largest producer of English books.
- There are more than 24,000 publishers operating in India.
- Over 19,000 publishers have received ISBNs from the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency.
- India is the second-largest market for books in English, behind the United States.
- English-language trade publishers in India have not sold e-books worth more than 2% of their total sales revenue in the last three to four years.
- The school sector accounts for 71% of the total market value.
- 70% of the book market in India comprises educational books.
- Over 70% of Indian publishers have digitized their content to produce e-book versions.
- The Indian publishing industry is currently growing at a compound annual growth rate of 25%, with digital publishing playing a significant role. For aspiring authors inspired by these top publishers, having the right writing tools is essential. Don’t hesitate to find the best pen brands in India to start jotting down your ideas.
Companies List
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Here are the top 10 book publishing companies in India:
- Penguin Random House India
- HarperCollins Publishers India
- Jaico Publishing House
- Rupa Publications
- Westland Publications
- Roli Books
- Arihant Books
- Aleph Book Company
- Taxman Publications Limited
- Srishti Publishing
These publishing houses have been selected based on their reputation, market presence, and the quality of their publications. They cater to a wide range of genres and have published works by both established and emerging authors.
- Penguin Random House India
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $50 million
- HarperCollins Publishers India
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $19.6 million
- Jaico Publishing House
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $24.3 million
- Rupa Publications
- Annual Revenue: Approximately $26.4 million
- Westland Publications
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $26.4 million
- Roli Books
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $10-49 million
- Arihant Books
- Annual revenue: Between INR 100-500 Crore
- Aleph Book Company
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $2.7 million
- Taxman Publications Limited
- Annual Revenue: $61 million
- Srishti Publishing
- Annual revenue: Approximately $10 million
1. Penguin Random House India
Penguin Random House India, a subsidiary of the global publishing giant Penguin Random House, is one of the leading book publishing companies in India. Formed from a merger between Penguin and Random House in 2013, it publishes books across a range of genres, catering to both adults and children.
The company’s estimated annual revenue is around $50 million, with a dedicated team of 167 employees committed to bringing quality literature to Indian readers. Not only does it publish in English and Hindi, but through collaborations with regional publishers, books are also made available in various other Indian languages including Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, Gujarati and Kannada.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Estimated Annual Revenue | $50 million |
| Number of Employees | 167 |
| Languages Published | English,Hindi + Regional Languages |
The extensive catalogue offered by Penguin Random House India ranges from fiction to non-fiction titles for all age groups. Their corporate book-ordering portal allows businesses across India to purchase these diverse titles at discounted prices.
Based out of New Delhi, this publishing powerhouse has brought numerous bestsellers into the market. They’ve earned their strong presence within the Indian publishing industry not just through their wide range of offerings but also via strategic partnerships.
Among their notable collaborations has been an alliance with Save the Children India for supporting various programmes. Additionally, they have promotional ties with Wattpad and are engaged in translation projects in conjunction with U.A.E.’s Kalimat Group.
Some well-known authors published under their banner include heavyweights like Raghuram G Rajan, Shashi Tharoor and Sadhguru among others.
To sum up:
- Penguin Random House India boasts an annual revenue estimated at $50 million.
- It employs 167 professionals dedicated to delivering quality publications.
- Its headquarters are located in New Delhi, serving as its nexus for operations all over the country.
- The company engages with several partners such as Save The Children India and Wattpad.
These factors combined make Penguin Random House stand tall amongst top book publishers operating on Indian soil today.
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2. HarperCollins Publishers India
HarperCollins Publishers India, a leading figure in the realm of English-language fiction and non-fiction books in the Indian market, operates under the banner of one of the world’s largest English-language publishers, HarperCollins Publishers. This New Delhi based publishing giant has made its mark not only within domestic boundaries but also on an international scale.
Let’s take a look at some important aspects that make HarperCollins stand out:
- Earning an estimated annual revenue of around $19.6 million, HarperCollins Publishers India is a significant contributor to the global publisher’s financial success.
- With 137 dedicated employees working tirelessly behind the scenes, you’ll understand why they’ve been able to maintain such high standards throughout their operations.
- They’re renowned for publishing an array of books across diverse genres such as fiction, poetry, general and narrative non-fiction, biographies, memoirs, current affairs, self-help material and even dictionaries.
- They celebrated their 25th anniversary in India back in 2017; quite an achievement indeed!
- Ever heard about their partnership with Nosy Crow? It was all about expanding children’s book offerings. Moreover, they launched a new imprint named HarperDesign that focuses on design-centric genres like arts architecture lifestyle and popular culture.
- Established in 1991 as part of The India Today Group joint venture before gaining full ownership by HarperCollins in 2012.
- Their authors have bagged numerous prestigious literary awards including but not limited to Man Booker Prize JCB Prize DSC Prize New India Foundation Award Atta Galatta Prize Shakti Bhatt Prize Gourmand Cookbook Award Publishing Next Award Tata Literature Live Award Gaja Capital Business Book Prize BICW Award Sushila Devi Award Prabha Khaitan Woman’s Voice Award Sahitya Akademi Award Crossword Book Awards!
As mentioned earlier this powerhouse is a subsidiary of globally acknowledged HarperCollins Publishers which further solidifies its standing in the Indian book publishing industry.
3. Jaico Publishing House
Jaico Publishing House is a leading name in the Indian publishing sector. Founded by Jaman Shah in 1946, its very name holds a patriotic sentiment – ‘Jai’ translates to victory in Hindi, symbolising India’s independence.
Jaico boasts an impressive estimated annual revenue of around $24.3 million. The company is backed by a strong team of 75 dedicated employees who bring diverse books to life.
Jaico publishes books across various genres that cater to different reader interests. These include self-help, religion and philosophy, health and spirituality, business, current affairs, travel, popular science and biography.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Headquarters location: | Based in the bustling city of Mumbai, India. |
| Major achievements: | Proudly stands as India’s first publisher of paperback books in the English language. |
The history of Jaico Publishing House began as a book distribution business for U.S. paperback publishers under the leadership of founder Jaman Shah. Over time it expanded its reach with offices peppered across various cities like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi Hyderabad Kolkata and Lucknow.
While precise data on their market share isn’t readily available we know they’re no small player in the Indian publishing market thanks largely to their diverse range of products and rich history within the industry.
But remember: Jaico Publishing House, more than just being another business entity contributes significantly to promoting literacy and knowledge dissemination across India since its inception post-independence.
4. Rupa Publications
Let’s delve into the world of Rupa Publications, a prominent player in India’s publishing scene. Founded in 1936 by D. Mehra and R.K. Mehra, this New Delhi-based company has been shaping minds with its diverse catalogue for over eight decades.
As you explore their bookshelves, you’ll find an intriguing mix of genres. From spirituality to business and economics, from stirring biographies to children’s literature, there’s something for every reader at Rupa Publications.
Rupa Publications is no slouch when it comes to financial performance either. The company racks up an impressive annual revenue estimated at around $26.4 million (£19 million). For the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2022, operating revenues are expected to be within INR 1 crore – 100 crores (£1 million – £10 million).
| Financial Year End | Operating Revenues |
|---|---|
| March 31st, 2022 | INR 1 crore – INR 100 crore |
Behind this successful operation stands a dedicated team of about 118 employees who work tirelessly to bring readers quality content.
What sets Rupa apart is their distinguished list of authors they’ve published over the years. This includes luminaries such as A.P.J Abdul Kalam, Ruskin Bond, Satyajit Ray and Khushwant Singh among others.
With sales centres scattered across major Indian cities like Kolkata, Allahabad, Bengaluru and Mumbai (to name but a few), they’ve also made waves beyond India’s borders with a centre in Kathmandu too!
In essence, whether you’re searching for enlightenment through spiritual texts or looking to escape reality with some fiction – you’re likely to find your next favourite read with Rupa Publications!
5. Westland Publications
Let’s dive into the world of Westland Publications. Born as East West Books by the Padmanabhan family in 1962, this Indian publishing house has made significant strides in the literary field. As a subsidiary of Nasadiya Technologies Pvt. Ltd., it’s been instrumental in shaping India’s reading culture.
Firstly, let’s talk numbers. With an estimated annual revenue hovering around $26.4 million, you can see that they’re no small player in the publishing industry. Their operating revenues for the financial year ending on 31 March 2022 span anywhere between INR 1 crore to a whopping INR 100 crores!
| Financial Data | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated Annual Revenue | $26.4 million |
| Operating Revenues (FY ending March ’22) | INR 1 -100 crore |
A dedicated team of roughly 11-50 employees is at work here. They’re based out of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and have managed to carve out a niche for themselves with their diverse range of published books.
Westland Publications isn’t just about quantity; it’s also about quality and diversity. They publish across various genres under unique imprints such as Context, Eka, Red Panda and Tranquebar.
Some major feats deserve special attention too. The company takes pride in having published books by renowned authors like Amish Tripathi, Ashwin Sanghi, Devdutt Pattanaik and many more.
However, every story has its twists and turns; so does Westland Publication’s journey which began as East-West Books before rebranding as Westland Books under Tata’s Trent Limited lineage. In another turn of events, Amazon acquired them in 2017 but announced its closure in early 2022.
Despite facing closure now under Amazon’s ownership, this stalwart in the book publishing industry will be remembered for its remarkable contributions to India’s literary landscape.
6. Roli Books
Let’s turn our attention to Roli Books, an Indian publishing house that’s been making waves in the literary world since 1978. Founded by Pramod Kapoor, it’s a family-run business with its headquarters nestled in the heart of New Delhi.
You’ll be intrigued to learn that Roli Books rakes in an estimated annual revenue falling between $10-49 million. This financial success is driven by a dedicated workforce numbering somewhere between 51-200 employees.
Diving into their product portfolio, you’ll find a diverse range of offerings under various imprints including Lustre Press for illustrated books, India Ink for fiction and Lotus collection for biographies and non-illustrated non-fiction books.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Revenue and Profit | $10-49 million (estimated) annually |
| Number of Employees | Between 51-200 |
| Main Products or Services | Various genres under different imprints like Lustre Press, India Ink and Lotus Collection |
| Headquarters Location | New Delhi, India |
The company has successfully carved out a niche for itself with numerous publications related to Indian heritage gracing bookshelves worldwide. It all began back in 1978 when Pramod Kapoor had a vision of showcasing Indian heritage through beautifully illustrated books. The first title was an illustrated book on Rajasthan printed in Singapore which laid the foundation stone for what is today one of the leading publishing houses in India.
So if you’re passionate about delving into Indian history or simply love beautifully crafted literature, Roli Books should certainly be on your radar!
7. Arihant Books
Unveiling the story of Arihant Publications, a leading light in India’s publishing landscape. Established in 1997, this company has gained renown for its extensive catalogue of books and magazines tailored for competitive exams, as well as school textbooks and e-learning products.
In terms of financials, Arihant Publications operates with an impressive revenue bracket between INR 100 crore to 500 crore as of the financial year ending on 31 March 2022. Despite running such a mammoth operation, it’s surprising to learn that they manage their vast portfolio with around just five employees.
Over time, they’ve published more than 3,000 titles across various sectors. Be it engineering or medical entrances; school curriculum or ITI; or polytechnic or government recruitment examinations – you’re likely to find an Arihant publication guiding you through your journey.
Their key clients are the Students and educational institutions spanning the length and breadth of India. With their headquarters nestled in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh and a corporate office in Daryaganj, New Delhi – they’re positioned right at the heart where learning thrives.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Revenue (FY ending Mar ’22) | INR 100-500 Cr |
| No. Of Employees | ~5 |
| Main Products/Services | Competitive exam books & e-learning products |
| Key Clients | Students & Educational Institutions |
What sets them apart is their daring spirit. Since its inception by founders Reetesh Jain, Deepesh Jain, and Parvesh Jain back in ’97 – every year has seen Arihant venture into new segments within educational publishing.
Moreover, their dedication towards Research and development is laudable. They’re committed to crafting tailor-made books for examinations based on up-to-date prescribed patterns and practices. No wonder then that students vouch for Arihant’s authentic content complemented by detailed solutions and latest question patterns; making it a top choice among those prepping for various exams.
So next time you’re gearing up for an examination challenge – remember there’s a good chance that Arihant Publications has got your back!
8. Aleph Book Company
Aleph Book Company is an award-winning publishing house based in New Delhi, India. The brainchild of David Davidar, co-founded with R. K. Mehra and Kapish Mehra of Rupa Publications India, it first opened its doors in May 2011.
The focus of this firm is on producing books that have enduring literary quality from (and about) India as well as other South Asian countries. Here’s a bit more detail for better understanding:
- Their yearly revenue stands at an impressive $2.7 million.
- They are a tight-knit team with around 8 employees.
- Each year they publish approximately 50 titles spanning various categories such as fiction, history, biography, autobiography and more.
- Their main clients include voracious readers, bookstores and libraries that have a keen interest in high-quality literature from or about India and South Asia.
- You’ll find their headquarters nestled in New Delhi, India.
- Their authors’ works have either won or been shortlisted for numerous awards on national, regional and international levels!
- The company was brought to life by novelist and publisher David Davidar who also served as the former president of Penguin Books Canada along with R.K Mehra and Kapish Mehra from Rupa Publications.
What sets apart Aleph is their dedication towards maintaining editorial excellence through close collaboration with authors right from the word go! They don’t just make books – they create pieces of art thanks to commendable design efforts coupled with top-notch printing & packaging.
Aleph Book Company has carved out its space in the industry owing to its commitment to publishing superior literature hailing from or centred around India/South Asia – making it a favourite amongst many enthusiasts interested in these regions!
9. Taxman Publications Limited
A prominent name in the realm of law publishing, Taxman Publications holds a notable position among the top book publishing companies in India. Specialising in taxation and corporate law books, this respected company was established back in 1960 by Shri U.K. Bhargava.
When you glance at their financials, you’ll see that Taxmann Publications reported an impressive annual revenue of $61 million in 2021. With a dedicated team of 284 employees working tirelessly to uphold its reputation for quality, it’s clear that this is no small-scale operation.
Here are some key features of Taxman Publications:
- From books on Direct Tax Laws and Corporate Laws to resources on banking, finance, and management – they’ve got you covered. Their range also extends to journals and web-based products focused on Indian/international taxation as well as Indian corporate laws.
- Client Base: Catering primarily to professionals and students alike, their offerings serve a broad market segment.
- Location: Headquartered amidst the hustle-bustle of Delhi, India – if you ever fancy visiting them.
- Achievements & Reputation: Known for its specialisation in tax laws and financial management, Taxmann has carved out a solid reputation within India’s publishing industry.
- Company History: The brainchild of Shri U.K. Bhargava that took root back in 1960.
- Research & Development: To ensure the utmost quality of their publications, they maintain an extensive online database that is consistently updated with new information.
A quick dive into these points reveals the reasons behind Taxmann Publication’s strong presence within the Indian market. Their wide range of products and services cater expertly to both professionals’ needs along with those studying law or finance – making them an institution worth considering when looking for comprehensive legal or financial texts.
10. Srishti Publishing
Let’s round off our list with a closer look at Srishti Publishing. Known for crafting bestsellers and providing a launchpad for debut authors, this Indian publishing house has been making waves in the literary world.
Srishti prides itself on its diverse portfolio. Whether you’re into romance, thrillers, self-help books or children’s literature, there’s something to pique your interest. The broad selection caters to first-time readers as well seasoned bookworms.
In terms of financial performance, it’s worth noting that Srishti generated a revenue of ₹75 crore (approximately $10 million) in the fiscal year 2018-2019. This impressive figure is indicative of their significant presence within India’s publishing market.
One might wonder about the origin story of such a successful company. Well, it was founded by Mr JK Bose and has now been operational for almost 25 years. Over this period, they’ve not only built up an extensive catalogue but also garnered recognition along the way.
It wouldn’t be right to discuss Srishti without mentioning their accolades. For instance, entrepreneur Srishti Jindal associated with the company was awarded the APJ Abdul Kalam Award for Innovation in 2017 – quite an achievement!
While we don’t have explicit information about their headquarters location, we know that they are based somewhere in India.
To sum up: if you’re looking to publish in India and want the assurance of working with a reputable company known for fostering new talent and producing bestsellers – make sure Srishti Publishing is on your radar.
Conclusion on Book Publishing Companies in India
In conclusion, the book publishing industry in India is thriving and continues to grow at a significant pace. India has established itself as one of the top publishing nations globally. The country is home to more than 24,000 publishers, making it the second-largest producer of English books. The school sector and educational books account for a significant portion of the market, while digital publishing is playing an increasingly important role in the industry’s growth. As the Indian publishing landscape evolves, both new and established publishers are capitalizing on the country’s large and growing reading population, offering diverse and quality literature in multiple languages to cater to various interests of readers. While discovering the top book publishers in India, you might also be interested in furnishing your reading space. Don’t forget to explore the best furniture brands in India for creating a cozy reading nook
I hope this article has helped you about the top book publishing companies in India, if you’re looking to publish in India and want the assurance of working with a reputable company.!!!
FAQs
Who are the top book publishers in India?
HarperCollins, Rupa Publications, Roli Books, Jaico Publishing House, Bloomsbury Publishing, Pan Macmillan India, and Aleph Book Company are among the top book publishers in India.
What is one of the oldest publishing houses in India?
Jaico Publishing House, Established In 1946, Holds The Distinction Of Being India’s First Publisher Of Paperback Books In The English Language.
What are the big 5 in publishing?
The “Big 5” In The Global Publishing Industry Typically Refers To Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, And Hachette. In India, Major Players Include Penguin Random House India, HarperCollins India, Rupa Publications, And Jaico Publishing House.
Who are some newer and emerging publishers in India?
Notion Press And Pan Macmillan India Are Among The Newer And Fastest-Growing Publishers In India.
Who are some publishers in India who are known for their prize-winning authors?
Leadstart is a leading publisher in India whose authors have won major literary prizes such as Padma Bhushan and Sahitya Akademi Award.
