Kannada Literature Soars Globally: Booker Laureates Banu Mushtaq & Deepa Bhasthi Heralded as Cultural Icons
Historic International Booker Win Sparks Celebration of Regional Literature; State Announces Grand Felicitation at Vidhana Soudha
Bengaluru, May 28 — In a glittering tribute to literary excellence, Karnataka’s literary stars Banu Mushtaq and Deepa Bhasthi were feted at Gandhi Bhavan today for their epoch-making International Booker Prize victory—a triumph that has catapulted Kannada literature onto the world stage. The emotionally charged event, organized by the Karnataka Working Journalists Association, Bahuroopi, and Gandhi Pratishthana, became a stirring ode to the power of regional storytelling and the unsung heroes who bridge linguistic divides.
A Dream Realized: From Obscurity to Global Acclaim
Mushtaq’s Heart Lamp, a collection of poignant Kannada stories masterfully translated by Deepa Bhasthi, has become a cultural phenomenon since its Booker win, with publishers raking in ₹6 crore—a testament to its soaring commercial and critical success. Yet, as the unassuming author revealed, the journey began with humble aspirations.
“I merely hoped my stories would one day find English readers,” confessed Mushtaq, her voice trembling with gratitude. “When Deepa took this leap of faith, neither of us imagined it would resonate across continents. Today, the warmth of this celebration outweighs even the Booker’s glory.”
Her anecdote about educating a CNN anchor on Kannada’s rich legacy drew thunderous applause. “I didn’t just represent my language—I introduced the world to it,” she declared, embodying the quiet pride of a storyteller who turned an underdog narrative into a global fairytale.
Deepa Bhasthi: The Architect of a Literary Bridge
While Mushtaq’s words moved the audience, the spotlight equally shone on Deepa Bhasthi, whose lyrical translation dismantled barriers between Kannada and global readerships. “This award isn’t just ours—it belongs to every writer and translator nurturing India’s linguistic diversity,” Bhasthi remarked, her modesty belying the seismic impact of her work.
A Resounding Message Against Intolerance
The evening transcended literature as K.V. Prabhakar, Media Advisor to the CM, framed the duo’s achievement as a cultural counterforce. “At a time when bigotry seeks to divide, their win celebrates the humanism woven through all faiths,” he asserted. “This is Karnataka’s answer to fundamentalism—a beacon of unity through art.”
Vidhana Soudha Grand Felicitation Ahead
The state government, recognizing the historic nature of this milestone, announced a star-studded felicitation on June 2 at Vidhana Soudha’s Banquet Hall, where luminaries from arts, politics, and academia will honor the trailblazers.
The Ripple Effect: A New Dawn for Indian Literature
The Booker victory has ignited fresh hope for regional languages, proving that authenticity—not just English—holds the key to global relevance. As attendees left Gandhi Bhavan, the air thrummed with a shared conviction: Mushtaq and Bhasthi haven’t just won a prize—they’ve rewritten the rules of the game.
Quotes
From Banu Mushtaq:
“This award is a love letter to every storyteller whispering in their mother tongue. Today, the world leaned in to listen.”
From Deepa Bhasthi:
“Translation isn’t just about words—it’s about carrying a culture across borders. This Booker belongs to every Indian language waiting to be heard.”
From K.V. Prabhakar (CM’s Media Advisor):
“Their win is Karnataka’s soft power triumph—proof that humanity’s universal language is art, not extremism.”
From Ayesha Khanum, Chairman, Karnataka Media Academy:
“In a world too often fractured by borders, their words built bridges. This victory shows how Karnataka’s literary soul can unite humanity.”
