Today we will see the Top 5 Book Publishers in Mumbai. The city Mumbai, often called the City of Dreams, is not only India’s financial capital but also a thriving hub for literature and publishing.
The city has played a key role in shaping India’s literary heritage, fostering creativity, and giving a platform to diverse voices.
Whether it’s regional literature, academic books, fiction, or self-help guides, Mumbai’s publishing houses have contributed immensely to Indian literature and culture.
Top 5 Book Publishers in Mumbai (2025)
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 book publishers in Mumbai who have made a lasting impact on the literary world.
These publishers have not only helped renowned authors gain recognition but have also preserved and promoted literature across different genres. Let’s dive in and discover the giants of Mumbai’s publishing scene.
Popular Prakashan
Popular Prakashan, founded in 1924 by Ganesh R. Bhatkal, is one of India’s oldest and most respected publishing houses.
Originally known as the Popular Book Depot, it was renamed in 1962 under the leadership of Sadanand and Ramdas G. Bhatkal.
This publisher is widely recognized for its extensive collection of books on Marathi literature, arts, culture, cookery, and women’s studies.
It has made a significant impact on the cookbook industry, having published over 85 books on Indian cuisine, including those by celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor.
One of its most famous works is Rasachandrika: Saraswat Cookery Book, a treasure trove of traditional Maharashtrian and Konkani recipes.
Beyond cookery, Popular Prakashan has played a role in progressive literature and social discourse, collaborating with organizations to release books on grassroots movements, politics, and culture.
Their Marathi publications include works by Vinda Karandikar and Gangadhar Gadgil, further establishing their commitment to regional literature.
They have also partnered with encyclopedias and National Geographic, bringing global knowledge to Indian readers and expanding their reach.
Reda more: Top 5 Book Publishers in Delhi: A Guide for Aspiring Authors
Jaico Publishing House
Founded in 1946 by Jaman Shah, Jaico Publishing House holds the distinction of being India’s first paperback publisher in English.
The name Jaico symbolizes victory and the celebration of India’s independence.
Over the decades, the company has built a diverse catalog covering literature, history, politics, religion, philosophy, health, self-help, and business management.
Jaico has been a leading force in business and management literature, publishing books on marketing, finance, and e-commerce to cater to India’s rapidly growing corporate sector.
It has also played a vital role in making international literature accessible by translating renowned non-English works into English.
With a strong distribution network across Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and other major cities, Jaico ensures that its books reach a wide and diverse audience.
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a student, or a lover of philosophy, Jaico has something valuable for everyone.
Rupa Publications
Founded in 1936 by D. Mehra and R.K. Mehra, Rupa Publications is one of India’s most well-known publishing houses.
Initially based in Calcutta, the company now has major sales centers in Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai.
Rupa is best known for publishing some of India’s top-selling authors, including Chetan Bhagat.
His books have had a massive impact on young readers, sparking discussions about modern Indian society.
Apart from fiction, Rupa Publications has also published influential books like L.K.
Advani’s autobiography My Country My Life and various works by Ruskin Bond, contributing immensely to India’s literary legacy.
In 2012, under Kapish Mehra’s leadership, Rupa launched Aleph Book Company, in collaboration with David Davidar, to promote innovative writing across multiple genres.
This initiative has introduced fresh voices and ideas to Indian readers.
Granthali
Founded in 1974 by Ashok Jain and Dinkar Gangal, Granthali is more than just a publishing house—it is a literary movement.
The mission was clear from the start: make books affordable and accessible.
They adopted a unique approach, selling books at cost price and relying on voluntary support.
One of their most groundbreaking publications is Baluta, an autobiographical masterpiece by Daya Pawar, which raised awareness about caste issues in Maharashtra and had a profound impact on Marathi readers.
By 2001, Granthali had published over 250 titles, with 130 receiving prestigious literary awards.
Their focus on original Marathi works and translations ensures that regional literature continues to thrive and reach a wider audience.
Their catalog reflects deep literary excellence and cultural significance, making them a crucial part of India’s publishing industry.
Hindi Granth Karyalay
Established in 1912 by Nathuram Premi, Hindi Granth Karyalay is one of Mumbai’s oldest publishing houses.
It specializes in Jainology, Indology, and Indian philosophy, with publications in Hindi, Sanskrit, Prakrit, and English.
For over a century, Hindi Granth Karyalay has been a vital resource for scholars, researchers, and spiritual enthusiasts.
Their catalog includes publications like the International Journal of Jain Studies, along with books exploring ancient Indian philosophical thought.
The publishing house remains a trusted name in academic and spiritual circles, preserving and expanding India’s literary and philosophical heritage.
Conclusion
Mumbai’s publishing industry is rich, diverse, and deeply influential.
These top 5 book publishers in Mumbai have shaped the literary landscape, ensuring that Indian culture, history, and creative expression are preserved and shared.
From Popular Prakashan’s cookbooks and Jaico’s self-help titles to Rupa’s bestsellers, Granthali’s social impact, and Hindi Granth Karyalay’s scholarly works, each publisher has made unique and lasting contributions.
If you’re a writer looking for a platform or a book lover searching for great reads, knowing these publishers in Mumbai will help you navigate the literary world.
FAQs
Which are the top book publishers in Mumbai?
Mumbai is home to several renowned book publishers, including Popular Prakashan, Jaico Publishing House, Rupa Publications, Granthali, and Hindi Granth Karyalay. These publishers have made significant contributions to Indian literature, offering books across various genres such as fiction, self-help, academic, and regional literature.
How do I get my book published in Mumbai?
To publish a book in Mumbai, research publishers that align with your genre. Prepare a professional book proposal, including a synopsis and sample chapters. Submit it via the publisher’s official website or email. Some publishers accept direct submissions, while others require a literary agent.
Which publisher in Mumbai is best for Marathi books?
Granthali and Popular Prakashan are among the top publishers for Marathi books in Mumbai. They specialize in regional literature and have published works by notable Marathi authors, making them excellent choices for writers in this genre.
Which is the best publishing house in Mumbai for self-help books?
Jaico Publishing House is one of the best publishers in Mumbai for self-help, business, and motivational books. They have a strong portfolio of personal development books, including internationally recognized titles.
Can I publish a book in Mumbai without an agent?
Yes, many Mumbai-based publishers accept direct submissions from authors. Publishers like Granthali and Popular Prakashan are known for supporting new writers. However, bigger publishers like Rupa Publications often prefer working with agents.
How long does it take to get a book published in Mumbai?
The publishing timeline varies, but on average, it takes 3 to 12 months from manuscript acceptance to book release. Traditional publishers have longer processes, including editing, design, and distribution, while self-publishing can be faster.
What is the role of a book publisher in Mumbai?
A book publisher handles editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing of a book. They ensure high-quality production and help authors reach their target readers through various sales channels.
Which Mumbai publishers accept new authors?
Granthali, Popular Prakashan, and Jaico Publishing House often welcome new authors, especially those writing in regional languages or self-help genres. Always check their submission guidelines before applying.
Are there any government-supported publishers in Mumbai?
Yes, Mumbai has government-backed publishers like Sahitya Akademi and National Book Trust (NBT), which publish academic, cultural, and literary works in multiple Indian languages.
Vidushi Gupta is an accomplished writer and digital marketing expert with contributions to organizations like Miles Educomp and ICAI. She has authored nearly ten novels and worked as a Senior Content Writer and Digital Marketing Specialist at ESS Global and Shabd. Her Quora posts have amassed almost 20 million views, reflecting her belief in the transformative power of the written word.