There is a particular kind of magic in a room full of books. The quiet rustle of pages, the scent of paper, the thrill of discovering an author you had never heard of: these are pleasures that no screen quite replicates. In a city as fast and restless as Mumbai, such pleasures can feel rare, and the places that offer them are cherished all the more. On 1 November 2026, the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) added a new chapter to that story by opening The Library, a literary and cultural destination devoted to the joy of reading. The date was chosen with care, coinciding with the birthday of the centre’s Founder and Chairperson, Mrs. Nita Mukesh Ambani. Part bookshop, part café, part gathering place, The Library brings together books, food, conversations and shared experiences under one roof, inviting visitors to browse, buy, linger and listen. It is a space that treats reading not as a solitary habit but as a way to connect, across ages, languages and stories.
A Vision That Grows
When NMACC opened its doors in 2023, it was born from Mrs. Ambani’s vision to celebrate India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage while bringing the best of the world to India and India to the world. Through performing and visual arts programmes, the centre has created opportunities for audiences of all ages and backgrounds to discover, experience and engage with art and culture. The Library extends that vision to the world of books and reading, creating opportunities for discovery, connection and shared experiences across generations.
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Over 4,500 Books to Discover
At the heart of the space is a one-of-its-kind collection of over 4,500 books from publishers across the world. The shelves span fiction, children’s books, art, design, history, culture, food, travel and more, so that there is something to inspire every kind of reader. Visitors can browse the collection, discover new authors and subjects, and buy books to take home. A special highlight is the entire Amar Chitra Katha collection, bringing together much-loved stories from Indian mythology, history, literature and folk tales at the Chariot of Wisdom installation. For many readers, these illustrated tales were the first doorway into stories, and having them gathered in one place adds a note of nostalgia.
Stories, Spoken Word and Conversations
The Library is meant to be lively as well as quiet. A curated programme of literary experiences will bring readers and writers together through storytelling, spoken-word performances, author conversations and workshops. Activities centred on children’s books and family experiences will welcome readers of all ages, while a platform for established authors and emerging spoken-word artists will allow them to share their work and connect with audiences. A dedicated stage creates an intimate setting for these performances and cultural gatherings.
Designed Like a University Library
The two-level space was brought to life by architect and designer Ashiesh Shah, who drew inspiration from traditional university libraries. The interiors carry a distinctive character through sculptural books, tabletops with carved open-book details, intimate alcoves and a circular coffee bar. Each element invites visitors to settle in, whether with a favourite novel, a new discovery or good company. The design nods to the scholarly past while feeling welcoming and contemporary, a place where one can wander without an agenda.
A Menu to Linger Over
The food philosophy, co-created by the NMACC team and restaurateur Aditi Dugar, offers a thoughtfully curated all-day dining experience. The menu runs from viennoiserie and leisurely brunch to small plates and craft cocktails, and also features freshly baked breads, handcrafted chocolates, matcha and signature coffee blends. The idea is simple and appealing: guests are invited to linger and savour, turning a visit into an afternoon, or a morning with a book into a long evening of conversation. The Library at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opened to guests on 1 November 2026 and welcomes visitors from 8:30 AM to 11:30 PM. It is located on the Ground Floor of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, at Gate 11 in Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai. Books are available to read and purchase at The Library.
Above all, The Library is designed as a place for guests to make their own. They can browse and buy books and merchandise, enjoy a coffee or a meal, or take part in a literary experience, and with every visit there is something new to discover and another reason to return. In an age of endless scrolling, it offers a gentle reminder of what a good book, a good cup of coffee and good company can do for a day.
