Banu Mushtaq Makes History: First Kannada Author to Win the International Booker Prize for Heart Lamp

In a landmark moment for Indian literature and regional language writing, Banu Mushtaq, an esteemed Kannada author, lawyer, and activist, has become the first writer in Kannada to win the prestigious International Booker Prize 2025. Her short story collection, Heart Lamp, translated into English by Deepa Bhasthi, has not only won the award but also made history as the first short story collection to receive this honor.

A Groundbreaking Win for Kannada Literature:

Heart Lamp is a compilation of twelve compelling stories written over three decades (1990–2023). These narratives vividly portray the lives of Muslim women in southern India, exploring themes of patriarchy, religious conservatism, caste, class, and resilience within marginalized communities. Mushtaq’s writing is deeply rooted in Karnataka’s oral storytelling traditions and the Bandaya (rebel) literary movement, which foregrounds social justice issues.

The chair of the judging panel, Max Porter, praised the collection as “something genuinely new for English readers,” highlighting its “radical translation” that brings fresh linguistic textures and challenges Western stereotypes about Muslim life. The stories combine courage, humor, and satire, offering a nuanced and life-affirming portrayal of women navigating oppressive social structures.

The Role of Translation: Deepa Bhasthi’s Mastery:

Deepa Bhasthi’s translation was instrumental in bringing Heart Lamp to a global audience. She is the first Indian translator to win the International Booker Prize, sharing the £50,000 prize money equally with Mushtaq. Bhasthi’s approach to translation — described as “translating with an accent” — preserves the cultural specificity and linguistic richness of the original Kannada text, making the stories accessible without diluting their authenticity.

Banu Mushtaq: A Voice of Resistance and Empathy:

At 77, Mushtaq’s multifaceted career as a lawyer, activist, and writer profoundly informs her storytelling. Her experiences advocating for women’s rights and witnessing the struggles of Muslim women in patriarchal communities inspire the emotional depth and realism in her stories. Mushtaq herself has said, “My stories are about women — how religion, society, and politics demand unquestioning obedience from them, and in doing so, inflict inhumane cruelty upon them, turning them into mere subordinates”.

Her work is a testament to the power of literature as a tool for social change and empathy, giving voice to those often unheard. Mushtaq’s win follows the success of Geetanjali Shree, the Hindi author who won the International Booker in 2022, further cementing India’s growing presence on the global literary stage.

Why This Win Matters:

Banu Mushtaq’s International Booker Prize win is more than a personal achievement; it is a victory for Kannada literature and Indian regional languages. It highlights the richness of India’s linguistic diversity and the importance of translation in bridging cultural divides. Heart Lamp invites readers worldwide to engage with stories that challenge stereotypes and celebrate the resilience and complexity of women’s lives in India’s socio-cultural fabric.

Banu Mushtaq’s historic International Booker Prize win for Heart Lamp is a beacon for regional Indian literature, women’s voices, and the transformative power of storytelling. This recognition not only elevates Kannada literature on the world stage but also underscores the critical role of translation in amplifying diverse narratives. For readers and writers alike, Mushtaq’s journey is an inspiring reminder that every story, no matter how local, holds universal power. Click here to explore more Global Indian stories that inspire.