Higginbothams is one of India’s historic bookselling brands, founded in Madras in 1844 by Abel Joshua Higginbotham, who acquired the Wesleyan Book Depository and gave it the name the business carries today. From its Mount Road bookstore, the company grew into a major bookselling chain and became known for its selection of philosophy, classical literature, and European titles. Its history also includes publishing: Higginbothams issued works such as Culinary Jottings for Madras and Sweet Dishes, and later stocked Penguin and Pelican paperbacks.

The brand’s legacy is closely tied to India’s literary and cultural life, including its historic Bengaluru bookstore on MG Road, established in a 19th-century Palladian-style building. Acquired by the Amalgamations Group in 1945 as part of Associated Publishers, Higginbothams continues to serve readers through more than 40 stores. Its offerings include books across genres, from children’s stories and puzzles to fiction, history, and contemporary nonfiction, alongside a regularly featured selection of new releases