Indian author Banu Mushtaq has made history by winning the 2025 International Booker Prize for her short story collection Heart Lamp, translated from Kannada into English by Deepa Bhasthi. This marks the first time a Kannada-language work has received this prestigious honor. The award ceremony took place at London's Tate Modern on May 20, 2025.
Heart Lamp comprises 12 stories written over more than three decades, exploring the lives of Muslim and Dalit women in southern India. The narratives delve into themes such as reproductive rights, caste, faith, and power, offering a poignant portrayal of women's resilience amidst societal challenges.
The judging panel, chaired by Max Porter, praised the collection for its "radical and life-affirming storytelling." Deepa Bhasthi's translation was lauded for preserving the cultural richness of the Kannada language. The £50,000 prize will be equally shared between Mushtaq and Bhasthi.
This achievement not only highlights Mushtaq's literary prowess but also brings global attention to Kannada literature, marking a significant milestone for Indian literature in translation.
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