Decolonizing Literature: The State, Market, and the Literary Community in the Global South
Our Esteemed Speakers
Rohini Rana is an author, culinary historian, and expert on Nepal’s royal cuisine, best known for her books “The Rana Cookbook: Recipes from the Palaces of Nepal” and “The Nepal Cookbook: 108 Regional Recipes”. Born into the royal family of Awagarh, Uttar Pradesh, she later married General Gaurav S.J.B. Rana, former Chief of Army Staff…
Dr. Baas holds a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Amsterdam and has held various academic positions, including at the National University of Singapore and the University of Amsterdam.  His research primarily focuses on urban anthropology, with interests in artificial intelligence, life in Indian and Asian megacities, new middle-class populations, and migration/transnationalism.Notable Work:•…
Devdutt Pattanaik is a renowned Indian mythologist, author, and speaker, celebrated for his engaging interpretations of ancient myths and their relevance to modern life. Born in Mumbai in 1970, he has authored over 50 books, including “Myth = Mithya,” “Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata,” and “Sita: An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana.” He…
Shubha Sarma is an IAS officer and author, known for her sharp storytelling and engaging narratives. An alumnus of Lady Shri Ram College and Jawaharlal Nehru University, she balances bureaucracy with literature. Her debut book, “Fly on the Wall & Other Stories” (2013), was widely acclaimed and translated into multiple languages, followed by her novel,…
Pawan Thapa Magar is a writer, translator, filmmaker, and social/political activist. Thapa recently translated the Hindi play “Loi Chalai Kavira Sath” into Nepali. He has also created video archives on YouTube featuring Nepali poetry, including works in Hindi and numerous other local languages, and has been running a campaign to promote reading culture through these…
Keshav Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 25 years of experience in journalism and communications. He has held various roles, including serving as a junior to Sri SS Misra, where he gained expertise in conducting warrant and session trials, and working as a communications consultant. His writings have been featured in publications such…
Rajneesh Trivedi is a prominent Indian journalist, editor, and literary figure known for his significant contributions to Hindi journalism. He is currently serving as the Chief Editor of Navodit Pravah, a respected Hindi literary weekly published in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Under his leadership, the publication has earned recognition for its insightful content and contributions to the…
K. Sridhar is a theoretical particle physicist who has spent most of his life in Bombay before relocating to Bangalore. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to the fields of physics and philosophy, publishing numerous research papers. Sridhar has also written books on physics and science education, reflecting his passion for both subjects. His…
Shefali Vaidya is a freelance writer, columnist, and media personality based in Pune, India. With a Master’s degree in Mass Communications from the University of Pune, she also holds advanced diplomas in Spanish and Indology. Shefali is a regular contributor to leading publications such as Swarajya Magazine, IndiaFacts, and Tarun Bharat, where she writes on…
Madhuchhanda Bal is a dedicated advocate for preserving and promoting India’s rich textile traditions, particularly focusing on the exquisite handloom heritage of Odisha. Based in Bhubaneswar, she has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at highlighting the cultural significance of traditional crafts. Her work centers around fostering appreciation for India’s diverse textile legacy and ensuring…
Subhransu Panda is an Indian author and the founder of Pen In Books, a platform dedicated to promoting regional literature. His notable works include “Itara” (2021), a contemporary novel, and “Susamachara”, which delves into significant narratives. Panda’s “Shilpa Bhagabat” addresses the impacts of neo-industrialization in Odisha, reflecting on its societal consequences. As a passionate advocate…
Prof. B P Acharya, IAS (Retd) Special Chief Secretary (Retd), Government of Telangana & Director General, MCR HRD Institute A retired IAS officer with an exceptional career in public administration, Prof. B P Acharya is known for pioneering initiatives that have significantly impacted industrial, biotech, tourism, and planning sectors in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. His…
Lippi Parida is a multi award winning author,painter,photographer,musician,talk show host,columnist,motivational speaker&social activist.She’s also a popular tarot reader.She holds a GUINNESS RECORD for playing the flute in the WORLD CULTURE FESTIVAL held in New Delhi in 2016!She also has a WORLD RECORD Iin creating the FASTEST MUSICAL PAINTING!She won the National MAKE IN INDIA award for…
Dr. Rinzin Rinzin is a decorated Bhutanese author, poet, scholar, and civil activist. He worked as a member of Parliament, lecturer, agriculture researcher, bureaucrat, management consultant, and writer during the last 28 years. His début book was ‘The Talisman of Good Fortune and Other Stories from Rural Bhutan’ (2002). He also authored a novel (‘Depa Bondeypa’s Relatives’ in…
VIBHA KAGZI Founder & Chief Education Officer, ReachIvy.com Author – Break the career code TEDx Speaker (twice) Spokesperson on World Economic Forum's Davos 2025 Vibha Kagzi, the Founder and CEO of ReachIvy.com, exemplifies excellence in education and career mentorship. A Harvard Business School MBA graduate and a Bachelor of Science from Carnegie Mellon University, Vibha…
Arshia Sattar is an Indian translator and writer. Sattar obtained her PhD in South Asian Languages and Civilizations from the University of Chicago in 1990. Her doctoral advisor was Wendy Doniger, a renowned Indologist. Her abridged translations of the epic Sanskrit texts, Kathasaritsagara and Valmiki’s Ramayana have both been published by Penguin Books. Her book…
RAKESH NAOREM (Poet, Story Writer, Playwright, Film Maker, Humanitarian, Social & Cultural Activist) Rakesh Naorem, a young writer & filmmaker from Manipur, has made significant contributions to the Manipuri film industry and literature. Born on March 6, 1985, in Tentha Khongbal, Thoubal District, Manipur, he is the youngest of five siblings. He was born to…
Temjen Imna Along Minister Tourism & Higher Education Government of Nagaland Personal Life and Education Shri Temjen Imna Along, son of Late Imnasashi Longkumer, was born on 25th November 1980 in Mokokchung, Nagaland, India. An Indian by nationality, he belongs to the Ao Naga tribe, a Scheduled Tribe, and practices Christianity. Currently unmarried, Shri Temjen…
Aswathy Thirunal Gowri Lakshmi Bayi is an Indian writer from Kerala and a member of the Travancore Royal Family. She has ten books to her credit. Aswathy Thirunal is the niece of the last King of Travancore, Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma. She was awarded India’s fourth highest civilian award the Padma Shri in 2024. Aswathi…
Sayari Debnath is a culture journalist at Scroll where she writes about books, art, and literary trends. She translates from Hindi and Bengali into English. She is the winner of the 2025 Rabindranath Tagore Award for Translation (presented by the Banaras Lit Fest) and a finalist of the 2024 Armory Square Prize for South Asia Literature in Translation. Social…
Dr. Binod K. Chaudhary is a rich philanthropist, politician, and businessman from Nepal. He serves as the Chaudhary Group’s (CG) president and chairman. With an estimated net worth of $1 billion, he was named Nepal’s lone billionaire and wealthiest individual in February 2013. His net worth has increased to $1.7 billion since 2013. In addition…
Lily Wangchuk has 30 years of extensive experience in varied fields as a Writer, Consultant, Former Politician, Former Diplomat, Former Assistant Resident Representative, UNDP; Former Executive Director for Bhutan Media Foundation. She is currently the Founder and President for 33 Soksoom Centre for Well-Being & Happiness, the first center of its kind in the country…
Kanchana Priyakantha, a writer and educator turned entrepreneur, is based in Aluthgama, Sri Lanka. In 2017, she co-founded KBOOKS, and in 2022, she co-founded KReader. She currently serves as the co-founder and CEO of both KBOOKS and KReader while actively pursuing her passion for writing. Since her school days, Kanchana has been deeply involved in…
Sandeep Khanna, an alumnus of Faculty of Management Studies and Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi, has held several leadership positions in India and abroad while working with reputable MNCs for three decades. His book ‘Tempest on River Silent – A story of last 50 years of India’ has been recently published by…
Radhika Oberoi is the author of two novels, Stillborn Season (2018) and Of Mothers and Other Perishables (2024), longlisted for the JCB Prize for Literature last year. She has also written book reviews and essays for a variety of publications in India and abroad, including World Literature Today, Mekong Review, Business Standard, The Indian Express,…
Pankaj Dubey (born 28 July 1978) is an Indian Author, screenwriter, Director and Producer from Mumbai. He has a Bachelor of Laws degree from Delhi University and a Masters in Applied Communications from Coventry School of Art and Design. Dubey worked for the BBC World Service in London and TV Today Group in New Delhi.…
Vishwas Patil, one of India’s most celebrated Marathi authors, is known for his evocative storytelling and deep understanding of history, culture, and human relationships. His works transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, offering profound insights into India’s social fabric. As the author of timeless classics like Panipat, Zadazadati, Mahanayak, and Not Gone with the Wind, Patil…
Sumana Roy, an internationally celebrated writer, is known for her lyrical prose and profound reflections on nature, identity, and the human experience. A professor at Ashoka University, her works transcend genres, weaving together the personal and the universal with an unmatched depth of emotion. Author of transformative books like How I Became a Tree, My…
Sukrita Paul Kumar is celebrated for her evocative poetry and profound contributions to Indian English literature. Known for works like “Dream Catcher” and “Apurna”, her writing reflects deep empathy, cultural narratives, and the human condition. A thought leader in literature and art, she seamlessly bridges academia with the creative world..
Sopan Joshi is a trailblazing thinker and writer whose work on sustainability and environmental issues has inspired a generation of conscious citizens. As an investigative journalist and author, he sheds light on the delicate balance between humanity and nature, urging readers to rethink their relationship with the planet. Author of the widely acclaimed book Jal…
An alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, Smarak Swain is an officer of the 2008 batch of the Indian Revenue Service, known for his exemplary contributions to India’s financial and regulatory frameworks. His remarkable career spans diverse roles in New Delhi, Bangalore, and Bhubaneswar, including serving as part of India’s negotiating team in the OECD’s Task Force…
A prominent figure in modern Hindi literature, Dr. Shishir Som is a poet who weaves intricate narratives around love, nature, and human relationships. Born in Prayagraj, this renowned forestry scientist has also penned stories, science dissemination articles, and environmental awareness pieces, alongside his poetry. His three collections of love poems – “Mohbhang Ke Baad” (2015),…
Saikat Majumdar, a leading voice in contemporary Indian literature, is known for his nuanced exploration of themes like identity, memory, and the human condition. His novels, essays, and academic works have carved a unique space in the literary and intellectual landscape. Author of thought-provoking novels such as The Scent of God, The Firebird (published internationally…
Rohit Manchanda did his doctorate from the University of Oxford. He is a professor at IIT Bombay where he researches computational neurophysiology and, in a parallel world, writes fiction. His first novel was published as In the Light of the Black Sun in 1996, and is being republished titled A Speck of Coal Dust simultaneously…
Pravin Shekhar is a celebrated figure in Indian theatre, known for his creative brilliance, commitment to the arts, and innovative approach enriched with high aesthetic values. With a career spanning over 36 years, he has directed over 30 plays, acted in 25, and designed numerous productions that have earned him critical acclaim nationwide. Recipient of…
Novoneel Chakraborty, hailed as the “King of Twists,” is one of India’s most popular contemporary authors. Known for his gripping thrillers and emotionally intense narratives, his books have captivated millions of readers across the country. Author of iconic novels like The Stranger Trilogy, Forever is a Lie, and Whisper to Me Your Lies, Novoneel’s writing…
Maria Goretti is known for her impeccable anchoring and culinary expertise, she has carved a unique niche in the hearts of her fans. Her first book, From My Kitchen to Yours: Food, Love & Other Ingredients (2016), is a delightful journey of flavors, stories, and emotions. Excitingly, Maria has revealed that her much-anticipated second book…
Manisha Kulshreshtha is a celebrated name in contemporary Hindi literature, known for her thought-provoking stories, profound poetry, and her contributions to modern feminist discourse. Her works explore the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and societal structures, resonating deeply with readers across generations. An acclaimed novelist and storyteller, Manisha Kulshreshtha has authored several groundbreaking works such…
Jerry Pinto is a Mumbai-based noted poet, novelist, short story writer, translator, as well as journalist. Pinto’s works include Helen: The Life and Times of an H-Bomb (2006), which won the Best Book on Cinema Award at the 54th National Film Awards, Surviving Women (2000) and Asylum and Other Poems (2003). His first novel Em…
Jai Prakash Pandey, an intellectual powerhouse, is revered for his contributions to literary criticism, journalism, and mass communication. With postgraduate degrees in Political Science and Hindi Literature from Odisha State University and a journalism degree, Pandey has dedicated his career to elevating the world of Indian literature and media. Having served as Publishing Editor at…
Ila Arun is a folk singer, actor, writer-playwright, music composer, lyricist, folk dancer, theatre producer-director. She has appeared in many prominent Bollywood films such as Lamhe, Jodhaa Akbar, Shaadi Ke Side Effects and Begum Jaan. Her most famous film songs till date includes Choli Ke Peeche sung along with Alka Yagnik for the film Khalnayak…
Faisal Malik is an Indian actor, best known for his role of Prahlad Pandey in Amazon Prime Video’s Panchayat, Fraud Saiyaan, Black Widows and Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2. Also in Ariyippu directed by Mahesh Narayanan, this will be his Malayalam debut. He has also worked as an assistant director, promo producer, reality…
Journalist turned editor, Elizabeth Kuruvilla is currently the Publishing Director of Simon & Schuster India and formerly the Associate Publisher with Penguin Random House India, and is responsible for strengthening the literary fiction and non-fictions list for the Vintage imprint of the publishing house. Elizabeth has commissioned and published award-winning and critically acclaimed original and…
Dr. Tharoor is renowned for his eloquence, intellect, and profound contributions to literature and public service. A prolific writer and thought leader, his works span history, politics, and culture, offering deep insights into India’s global narrative and contemporary challenges. Engage in an intellectually stimulating session with Dr. Tharoor as he delves into the intersections of…
Bhanu Bharti, a towering figure in Indian theatre, has dedicated his life to reviving and reimagining the rich tradition of Indian performing arts. As a visionary playwright and director, he has brought to life countless productions that reflect the essence of India’s cultural and social heritage. A graduate of the prestigious National School of Drama…
An acclaimed Nepalese journalist and author, Basanta Basnet is the editor at Onlinekhabar, an online news portal. He has published three books. His first book 72 ko Bismay is a political non-fiction about the 2015 Nepal earthquake and the events that followed after the promulgation of the constitution of Nepal in 2015. His second book,…
Azhagiya Periyavan, originally named C. Aravindan, was born on March 3, 1968, in Pernambut, Vellore district, Tamilnadu, to Mr. Chinnadurai and Mrs. Kamalam. He is a middle school science teacher who has ventured into diverse fields such as poetry, short stories, novels, essays, songs, screenplays, and movie dialogues. His literary journey commenced in 1988 with…
Anupama Raju is a multifaceted literary trailblazer whose evocative poetry and prose have captivated readers worldwide. Her ability to articulate profound thoughts with striking simplicity makes her a revered voice in contemporary English literature. Author of the highly acclaimed poetry collection Nine, Anupama’s work beautifully explores themes of love, memory, and identity. Her writing seamlessly…
Anant Vijay, an award-winning author and seasoned journalist, has made an indelible mark on Indian literature and media through his incisive writings and thought-provoking insights. His works bridge the gap between art, culture, and contemporary socio-political issues, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving landscape of Indian storytelling. A prolific writer, Vijay has authored several…
Amitabh Kant is presently the CEO of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI). He is a member of the Indian Administrative Service, IAS (Kerala Cadre: 1980batch). He is the author of Branding India – An Incredible Story. Mr. Kant has been a key figure of the “Make in India”, Startup India, “Incredible India” and God’s…
Prof. Jatindra Kumar Nayak is an Indian translator, literary critic, columnist, editor, and academic from Odisha. An alumnus of Oxford University, UK, Prof. Nayak has been instrumental in bringing Odia literature to a global audience through his exemplary translations. His notable translations include Yantrarudha by Chandrasekhar Rath, rendered into English as Astride the Wheel, for…
Dr. Kuladhar Saikia is a distinguished short story writer and Sahitya Akademi Award recipient (2015) with a diverse body of work that includes 25 short story collections, 5 plays, a novel, and a book of essays. His novel has been published in Hindi by Penguin, and his English short stories are featured in the collection…
Dr. Manjula Pooja Shroff MD & CEO, Kalorex Group Dr. Manjula Pooja Shroff, the MD and CEO of Kalorex, has been instrumental in founding and managing several premier educational institutions and initiatives in India. She is a name synonymous to education. Under its umbrella Kalorex has 60+ institutions which includes Delhi Public Schools, Calorx Olive…
Vikas Swarup, (IFS Rtd), Diplomat, Author Vikas Swarup, born on June 22, 1961, is a retired Indian diplomat and acclaimed writer. He concluded his distinguished career in the Indian Foreign Service as Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs on June 30, 2021. During his tenure, he served as the High Commissioner of India…
Pratap Somvanshi, Managing Editor, Hindustan Pratap Somvanshi, the celebrated Indian poet, lyricist, and writer, was born on December 20, 1968, in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh. Holding an M.A. in Hindi literature from Kanpur University, he not only excels in literature but also serves as the Managing Editor of Hindustan Hindi daily newspaper. Renowned for his profound…
Yatindra Mishra, a celebrated poet and literary connoisseur, has enriched the world of Indian literature with his profound poetry, thoughtful translations, and exceptional editing. His works capture the essence of Indian aesthetics, blending the classical with the contemporary in a style that is both evocative and timeless. An accomplished author, Mishra has penned several acclaimed…
Tanaya Patnaik Executive Director, Sambad Group Tanaya Patnaik is Executive Director of the Sambad Group and heads the radio, television and digital wings of the media house. She is an alumnus of the prestigious Warwick Business School in London. She is instrumental in giving conventional media, a new and enhanced digital look and heads three…
Sanjeev Paliwal, widely regarded as a trailblazer in the field of Indian television journalism, is now a literary sensation with his gripping crime thrillers. A career spanning over 25 years in television broadcasting has shaped his unique ability to weave realistic narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. His bestselling novels, including…
Prabhat Ranjan is a Fiction writer, translator, and editor. He has written ‘Kothagoi’, his first book in Hindi on the history of the tawaif tradition. Has published two collections of short stories ‘Janaki Pul’ and ‘Bolero Class’. and has translated more than 30 books including Anne Frank’s Diary, Mohsin Hamd’s novel Moth Smoke, Khushwant Singh’s…
Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), is celebrated for his dedication to preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage. A multifaceted scholar, writer, and administrator, Dr. Joshi has authored several thought-provoking books and academic essays that delve into the essence of India’s rich artistic traditions and cultural…
Gagan Gill is an acclaimed poet with four collections of poetry and a book of essays to her credit. She is a full-time writer and lives in New Delhi. A prolific translator, she has also published ten volumes of translations of the work of various writers like Zbiegnew Herbert, Harbhajan Singh, Sitakant Mahapatra and Shrikant…
Milee Ashwarya is a Publisher, of Ebury Publishing and Vintage Publishing at Penguin Random House India. Her focus has been on championing the best voices in fiction and non-fiction while publishing a range of bestsellers across segments. Her authors include Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Piyush Pandey, Hussain S. Zaidi, Yuvraj Singh, Hindol Sengupta, R. Gopalakrishnan,…
Dr. Dwarika Prasad Uniyal is currently the Pro Vice Chancellor (Development & Leadership)& Founding Dean, School of Economics & School Of Business at RV University Bengaluru. Prior to his current assignment Professor Uniyal, was Dean of FLAME School of Business, FLAME University. He brings with him rich and varied experience of more than 25 years in premier…
Dr. Vikram Sampath is renowned for his masterful research and compelling narratives that bring India’s vibrant history to life. With a repertoire of ten critically acclaimed books, including Splendours of Royal Mysore: The Untold Story of the Wodeyars, Voice of the Veena: S. Balachander, Women of the Records, and Indian Classical Music and the Gramophone,…
A distinguished Indian author, academic, poet Mamta Kalia is renowned for her contribution to Hindi literature. Having taught at institutions like SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai and Mahila Seva Sadan Degree College, in Allahabad, Kalia retired from her teaching career in 2001. Post-retirement, Kalia took on the role of heading the Bharatiya Bhasha Parishad, a…
Yugal Kishore Joshi is a celebrated intellectual and spiritual thinker whose works bridge ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary thought. As a prolific writer, philosopher, and scholar, he has inspired countless readers to delve deeper into India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Joshi’s insightful exploration of Vedantic principles has made him a beacon of knowledge for…
Satish Padmanabhan is Managing Editor, Outlook Magazine. He has over 25 years of work in various media like newspapers, magazine, TV and digital. He started with Sunday and BusinessWorld, then moving to TV with TV-18 and CNBC, and later as News Editor at NDTV. He has also taught journalism at the Times School of Journalism…
Dr. Adyasha Das, an Associate Professor at Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management (IITTM) Bhubaneswar, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India is a contemporary writer and travel blogger from Odisha known for her insightful and colourful portrayals of life. Suffused with sensitivity, she uses words and imagery with an uninhibited freedom, modulated with quality. An Amazon best-selling…
Yatish Kumar is a multifaceted literary genius whose evocative poetry and prose have garnered critical acclaim and touched hearts worldwide. With a remarkable ability to weave words into profound emotions, his works reflect his deep understanding of human experiences and the nuanced layers of life. Author of the highly acclaimed “Antas Ki Khurchan”, Yatish Kumar’s…
Anand Neelakantan is a literary powerhouse, renowned for his unique reimagining of mythology and history. His storytelling brings alive untold perspectives, capturing the imaginations of readers across India and beyond. With a repertoire of bestselling books, including Asura: Tale of the Vanquished, Ajaya: Roll of the Dice, Ajaya: Rise of Kali, and Vanara: The Legend…
Paramita Satpathy (born 30 August 1965) is an Odia writer. She is the daughter of Sahitya Akademi Award winner poet Pratibha Satpathy and Nityananda Satpathy. Her first short-story was published in 1985 in ‘Jhankar’ magazine. Paramita, who has authored seven short-story collections, has been selected for the Sahitya Akademi Award 2016 for Odia. She has won the…
Arundhathi Subramaniam is an award winning poet, artist and an eminent writer on spirituality and culture. Over the years she has worked as a poetry editor and curator, and as a journalist on literature, classical dance and theatre. She divides her time between Bombay and a yoga centre in Coimbatore. Arundhathi Subramaniam is the author…
Malini Awasthi, a celebrated exponent of Indian folk music, has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of India. With her melodious voice and deep knowledge of folk traditions, she has brought the vibrant sounds of Awadhi, Bhojpuri, and Bundelkhandi music to global audiences, making her a true cultural ambassador. A…
Buddhisagar is renowned for his profound storytelling and poetic brilliance. His debut novel, Karnali Blues, is a modern classic in Nepali literature, celebrated for its poignant portrayal of family, identity, and nostalgia. His second novel, Phoolko Atma, further established his reputation as a literary maestro. With an evocative writing style that transcends boundaries, Buddhisagar has…
Kanishka Gupta is a literary agent, writer, and publishing commentator best known for his widely acclaimed series for Scroll.in called ‘Publishing and the Pandemic’. He is the founder of Writer’s Side, the largest literary agency and consultancy in South Asia. Gupta has been credited for single-handedly popularising literary representation in the subcontinent. He represents a range of highly accomplished…