Collection of stories by Banu Mustaq, progressive voice in Kannada, enters International Booker Prize long list

Karnataka-based writer, activist, and lawyer Banu Mushtaq’s short story collection, Heart Lamp, has been longlisted for the prestigious International Booker Prize 2025. Translated from Kannada to English by Deepa Bhasthi, the collection received recognition in London, marking a significant achievement for Kannada literature.

Author Banu Mushtaq. (X/KiranKS)

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah lauded the milestone, calling it a proud moment for Kannada storytelling. In a post on X, he stated, "A proud moment for Kannada literature! Banu Mushtaq’s Kannada short story collection has made it to the International Booker Prize longlist—a true honor for our language and culture! This recognition will pave the way for global appreciation of Kannada storytelling. Heartfelt congratulations!"

Among the 13 titles selected from around the world, Mushtaq’s work stood out for its "witty, vivid, colloquial, moving, and excoriating" narrative style that captures the nuances of family and community dynamics. This marks the first time a Kannada work has been longlisted for the GBP 50,000 prize, which is shared equally between the author and translator.