Banu Mushtaq’s “Heart Lamp” Longlisted for the 2025 International Booker Prize
In a historic moment for Indian literature, Kannada author Banu Mushtaq's short story collection Heart Lamp has been longlisted for the 2025 International Booker Prize. Translated into English by Deepa Bhasthi, this marks the first time a Kannada work has received such recognition on the global stage.
A Glimpse into “Heart Lamp”
Heart Lamp is a collection of twelve short stories originally published between 1990 and 2023. The narratives delve into the lives of marginalized women in Muslim communities in southern India, exploring themes of faith, caste, gender, and power dynamics. Mushtaq's writing, characterized by its emotional depth and subtle humor, offers a poignant portrayal of everyday struggles and resilience.
Significance of the Longlisting
Being longlisted for the International Booker Prize is a monumental achievement for any author. For Mushtaq, this recognition brings global attention to Kannada literature, highlighting the richness and diversity of Indian storytelling. The longlisting also underscores the importance of translating regional works into English, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Details of the Longlisted Work
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | Banu Mushtaq |
| Title | Heart Lamp |
| Language | Kannada (original), English (translation) |
| Translator | Deepa Bhasthi |
| Publisher | Penguin Random House India |
| Themes | Women's rights, caste, faith, power, community dynamics |
| Recognition | First Kannada work longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2025 |
Author Profile: Banu Mushtaq
Banu Mushtaq is a seasoned writer, journalist, and social activist based in Hassan, Karnataka. Emerging from the Bandaya Sahitya movement, which challenged caste and class oppression, Mushtaq has authored six short-story collections, a novel, essays, and poetry. Her works have been translated into various Indian languages, and she has received accolades, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award.
Translator's Contribution: Deepa Bhasthi
Deepa Bhasthi, the translator of Heart Lamp, has played a pivotal role in bringing Mushtaq's stories to the English-speaking world. Bhasthi's translation captures the nuances of the Kannada language, preserving the emotional essence of the original narratives. Her work has been instrumental in introducing Kannada literature to a global audience.
Impact on Kannada Literature
The longlisting of Heart Lamp signifies a breakthrough for Kannada literature on the international literary scene. It highlights the potential of regional languages to contribute to global literary discourse. This recognition is expected to inspire other writers and translators to bring regional works to the forefront, fostering a more inclusive literary landscape.
Conclusion
Banu Mushtaq's Heart Lamp serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in regional languages. Its longlisting for the 2025 International Booker Prize not only honors Mushtaq's literary prowess but also elevates Kannada literature on the global stage. As readers, we are reminded of the richness of narratives that emerge from diverse cultural backgrounds, urging us to explore and appreciate the vast tapestry of world literature.
