So… you’ve written a book. Or maybe you’re still writing and already dreaming about seeing your name on the cover.
Either way, one thing is clear, you’re serious about publishing.
And that’s something to be proud of.
Now you’re asking the right question:
“What’s the best way to publish my book in India?”
Should you send your manuscript to a traditional publisher?
Or should you take control and self-publish?
Let’s break it down — simply, honestly, and from one writer to another — so you can make the best decision for your story.
How Big Is the Publishing Industry in India?
Before we talk strategy, let’s look at the size of the opportunity in front of you.
Here’s what recent numbers say:
- India’s publishing industry was worth ₹500 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow to ₹800 billion by 2024
- The total book market was valued at $10.4 billion USD in 2024 and is projected to reach $14.6 billion by 2030
- Self publishing is booming, driven by digital platforms like Amazon KDP, the growth of audiobooks, and the rise of independent authors
In short — this is a great time to be an Indian author. Whether you want to inspire, teach, or entertain, the space is wide open.
What Is Traditional Publishing?
In traditional publishing, you submit your manuscript to a publishing house — like Penguin, HarperCollins, or Rupa. If they accept it, they take care of everything: editing, designing, printing, and sometimes marketing.
Pros:
- You get instant recognition and credibility
- You don’t have to pay upfront
- Experts handle your editing and book design
- Your book could be available in major bookstores and literary events
Cons:
- Very few manuscripts are accepted (rejection rate is high)
- The process is slow (it can take 12 to 18 months to publish)
- You have little control over title, cover, or pricing
- Royalties are low (typically 5–10% of the book’s price)
Traditional publishing is a great option — if you’re okay with waiting, and if your book fits the publisher’s niche.
What Is Self Publishing?
In self publishing, you control the entire journey. You decide the title, cover, pricing, and launch date. You can publish directly via Amazon Kindle or work with a professional self-publishing company.
Pros:
- You control everything — from content to design
- You can publish your book in weeks, not years
- You keep a much higher royalty — up to 80%
- Perfect for first-time writers, coaches, poets, educators, and entrepreneurs
Cons:
- You need to invest upfront for editing, design, and marketing
- You are responsible for the book’s quality
- Marketing is a must — but you don’t have to do it alone
Self publishing gives you freedom and faster results. It’s ideal if you want full control and don’t want to wait for approval.
Which Option Should You Choose?
It really depends on your goals, budget, and how much control you want over your book. Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:
If you go with traditional publishing, the process usually takes 12 to 18 months. You won’t have to invest any money upfront, but your creative control will be very limited. Decisions like the book title, cover design, pricing, and even parts of the content may be changed by the publisher. Also, the royalties you earn per book are usually between 5% to 10%.
However, the benefits include credibility, professional editing and design, and potential placement in bookstores and literary circles. It’s a good choice if you have patience and you’re aiming for long-term prestige.
On the other hand, self publishing allows you to control everything — the content, the design, the pricing, and your publishing timeline. You can get your book out into the world in just 2 to 6 weeks. You do need to invest in editing, formatting, and marketing, but you also earn much higher royalties — often between 30% to 80% per sale.
It’s a perfect choice for authors who want speed, independence, creative freedom, and the ability to build their brand or business through books.
What Smart Authors Are Doing: The Hybrid Strategy
Many authors today use both paths.
- Self publish your first book and build your audience
- Use that success to get a traditional publishing deal later
- Or self publish nonfiction (coaching, business, personal growth) and use traditional for literary fiction
This gives you the best of both worlds — credibility and control.
Want to Self Publish, But Without the Stress?
Here’s the truth: self publishing doesn’t mean doing everything by yourself.
It means choosing the right publishing partner who knows how to do it all — with you and for you.
Why Authors Choose Pen & Paper Publication
At Pen & Paper Publication, we’ve helped over 900 authors and published more than 2000 books — including poetry collections, self-help guides, business books, novels, and more.
We offer everything you need to become a published author:
- Professional editing and proofreading
- Beautiful cover and interior design
- Paperback and eBook formatting
- Audiobooks and podcasts
- Ghostwriting and content development
- Global distribution (Amazon, Flipkart, Google Books, and more)
- Book marketing, branding, and author coaching
We believe every story deserves to be told, with care, clarity, and quality.
Visualizing Your Author Journey
Just like this focused, creative writer in our Pixar-style visual, your author journey starts with one bold step — publishing your book.
Let your story stand tall, professionally and beautifully.
Let’s Talk About Your Book
Want to publish your book without the confusion, chaos, or waiting?
Contact us today.
Call or WhatsApp: +91 9625407904
Email: publish@pnpacademy.in
Website: www.pnpacademy.in
Follow Us:
- Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/pnp.publications
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555906679847
- LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/pnp-publications/
- YouTube — https://youtube.com/@pnp.academy?si=Y9Qi0URsD5snV3gL
Final Thought: Your Book Deserves a Platform
If you’ve written a book, don’t keep it to yourself.
Don’t wait for permission. Don’t let fear stop you.
Publishing is no longer only for a few.
It’s for anyone with something meaningful to say.
So whether you go traditional or self publish, just make sure you take that step.
And if you want expert support, creative freedom, and a trusted team by your side…
Pen & Paper Publication is here for you.
