Bikashrai Debbarma

Bikashrai Debbarma is a prominent litterateur and composer from Tripura, known for his contributions to literature in the Tripuri language and his efforts to promote the rich heritage of the Tripuri community in India. Hailing from Tripura, Debbarma's work often reflects the complexities of identity, tradition, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous communities.

Bikashrai Debbarma’s work not only enriches the Tripuri literary landscape but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region's diverse cultural heritage. His compositions have been sung by renowned Kokborok singers and music in films and dramas. His 2021 poetry 'Tutankhamun ni Pyramid' won the Doulat Ahmed Award for best publication in the year 2022.

Recently, Debbarma and renowned playwright Nanda Kumar Debbarma recently compiled 'Chirik Morok' an anthology of Kokborok poetry. Chirik Morok is set to be the new benchmark in this genre of Kokborok literature.

Bikashrai Debbarma is also the president of Kokborok Sahitya Sabha (KBSS), an advisory member of the Kokborok Department, TTAADC, and the President of Roman Script for Kokborok Choba (RSKC).

Shobhaa De

Shobha De is a renowned Indian author, columnist, and socialite. She graduated from St. Xavier's College in Mumbai and began her career as a model and then as a journalist. Her foray into writing fiction started in the 1990s, and she quickly gained fame for her novels, which often delve into the lives of the urban elite, relationships, and the complexities of modern life. Some of her notable works include ‘Socialite Evenings’ (1988), ‘Starry Nights’ (1991), and ‘One Night @ The Call Centre’ (2005). In addition to her fiction, Shobhaa De is a prolific columnist, contributing to leading newspapers and magazines. Her columns often address social issues, politics, and lifestyle topics, and she is known for her bold opinions and engaging commentary.

Shobhaa De has received several awards for her literary work, including the Best Author Award from the Asian Age and the Lifetime Achievement Award from various organizations. She is also a sought-after public speaker and has participated in numerous literary festivals and discussions.

Beyond her literary career, De advocates for women's rights and social issues, using her platform to raise awareness and inspire change. Her influence extends to television, where she has worked as a producer and screenwriter, further showcasing her versatility as a creator. With a career spanning over three decades, Shobhaa De remains a significant figure in Indian literature and media, celebrated for her engaging storytelling and impactful commentary on contemporary life.

Madhu Raghavendra

Madhu Raghavendra is a notable Indian poet, writer, and cultural commentator recognized for his contributions to contemporary literature in India. He gained recognition with his poetry collections, which are praised for their lyrical quality and emotional depth. His work is known for its rich imagery and ability to connect with readers on multiple levels, often provoking thought and introspection.

In addition to poetry, Madhu Raghavendra is an accomplished translator and editor, working to bring lesser-known voices and texts to the forefront. His commitment to promoting literature extends to organizing literary events, workshops, and discussions, where he fosters a sense of community among writers and readers.

The University of Stirling, Scotland, has offered Madhu Raghavendra the prestigious Charles Wallace Fellowship in Creative Writing for 2024. Raghavendra has authored four books of poetry: ‘Make Me Some Love to Eat’, ‘Stick No Bills’, ‘Being Non-essential’, and ‘Going Home’. He uses performance poetry as a tool to advocate the cultural richness and heritage of India.

Moushumi Kandali

Moushumi Kandali is an Indian writer and poet from Assam. She is known for her evocative storytelling and deep engagement with cultural and social themes. Born and raised in Guwahati, Assam, Moushumi has been shaped by her home state's rich traditions and diverse landscapes, which often find expression in her literary work.

She began her writing journey early, developing a passion for literature and storytelling. Moushumi's work spans various genres, including poetry, short stories, and essays. Her writing is characterized by its lyrical quality and a keen exploration of identity, nature, and the complexities of human relationships.

Moushumi's debut collection of poems has garnered attention for its fresh perspective and emotional depth, resonating with readers in Assam and beyond. Her ability to capture the essence of Assamese culture while also addressing universal themes has established her as a significant voice in contemporary Indian literature.

In addition to her creative endeavours, Moushumi actively promotes literature and culture in her community. She participates in literary festivals, workshops, and discussions, where she encourages young writers to explore their creativity and engage with social issues through their work. Moushumi Kandali's contributions to literature have been recognised through various awards and accolades, highlighting her role in enriching the literary landscape of Assam. Her commitment to storytelling and advocacy for the arts continues to inspire many, making her an influential figure in the realm of Indian literature. She currently works as a lecturer at Tezpur University in the Department of Cultural Studies.

Nabina Das

Nabina Das is a poet and writer based in Hyderabad. Her latest poetry collection Anima and the Narrative Limits is from Yoda Press. Her other poetry collections are Sanskarnama (Red River, 2017), Into the Migrant City (Writers Workshop, 2013), and Blue Vessel (Les Editions du Zaporogue, 2012). Her debut book is a novel titled Footprints in the Bajra (Cedar Books, 2010), and her short fiction volume is titled The House of Twining Roses: Stories of the Mapped and the Unmapped (LiFi Publications, 2014). Her first book of translations titled Arise out of the Lock: 50 Bangladeshi Women Poets in English (curated by Alam Khorshed, Chittagong) appeared in early 2022 from Balestier Press, UK. A Rutgers-Camden MFA alumna, Nabina is the editor of WITNESS, The Red River Book of Poetry of Dissent (Red River, 2021), and co-editor of 40 under 40, an Anthology of Post-globalisation Poetry (Poetrywala, 2016). Nabina is a 2017 Sahapedia-UNESCO fellow, a 2012 Charles Wallace Creative Writing alumna (Stirling University, Scotland), and a 2016 Commonwealth Writers features correspondent. Born and brought up in Guwahati, Assam, she is an alumna of 2012 Sangam House Residency, 2011 NYS Summer Writers Institute, and 2007 Wesleyan Writers Conference. Her work has been included in research work, syllabi, and collections meant for university and school education, and her poems appear in Poetry (Poetry Foundation), Stanford University LIQ Project, Prairie Schooner, Indian Literature (National Academy of Letters), Caravan, Poetry at Sangam, The Indian Quarterly, Economic and Political Weekly, Dhaka Tribune, The Yellow Nib Anthology (Queens University, Belfast), Cafe Dissensus, Kitaab-Singapore, and Six Seasons Review, among several others. Nabina teaches creative writing in classrooms and workshops, specialises in e-Learning, and also writes columns and commentaries for newspapers and journals.Nabina has worked most recently as an academic editor, instructional designer, teaching faculty, and as a journalist for 10 years. She has also worked as a media executive in NGOs and industry bodies in the area of Gender, Development, Child Welfare, and Environment. During her diverse tenure, she has edited books on related subjects, designed and edited annual reports and yearbooks, and brochures and communication material. She has handled a prestigious Media fellowship program for journalists and development workers particularly in the Northeast while working with National Foundation for India (Delhi), a grant body directly under the Ford Foundation. She writes columns and commentaries for several newspapers and journals.

Jerry Pinto

Jerry Pinto is an acclaimed Indian poet, novelist, and journalist known for contributing to contemporary literature in India.  He is of Goan descent and often reflects the nuances of urban life in his work.

Pinto's literary career began with poetry, and he quickly gained recognition for his unique voice and ability to blend humour with deep emotional insight. His poetry often explores themes of identity, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. He is known for capturing Mumbai's essence, portraying the city’s vibrancy and struggles.

In addition to poetry, Pinto is also a prominent novelist. His debut novel, ‘Em and the Big Hoom’ (2012), received critical acclaim and won the Best Fiction Award at the 2013 Hindu Literary Prize. The novel delves into the challenges of mental illness and family dynamics and showcases Pinto’s talent for weaving personal narratives with broader societal issues.

Pinto has made significant contributions to journalism and has written extensively on various topics, including literature and social issues. His essays and articles have been published in prominent Indian newspapers and magazines, where he actively engages in contemporary cultural discussions.

Pinto has received several awards and honours throughout his career, solidifying his status as a prominent voice in Indian literature. His work resonates with readers in India and attracts a global audience, making him an influential figure in the literary world. His dedication to both literature and social causes continues to inspire many emerging writers and poets in India.

Streamlet Dkhar

Streamlet Dkhar is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Khasi at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU). Earning her HSLC in 1976, Pre-University in 1978, and a B.A. (Hons in Khasi) in 1980, followed by an M.A. in 1983, M.Phil. in 1986, and a Ph.D. in 1994, all from NEHU. With a rich academic background and extensive teaching experience, she has made significant contributions to the Khasi literature and language education field. With over three decades of teaching experience, Prof. Streamlet has played an essential role in shaping the students’ minds in the field of Khasi studies. Teaching M.A. (Khasi) for 38 years and M.Phil./Ph.D. courses for 30 years. She also taught Khasi to non-Khasi speakers at Opera Hall in 1993-1994 and had a brief stint at St. Anthony’s Secondary School in 1985-1986. Her extensive teaching experience has enriched the academic environment at NEHU.

Kynpham Nongkynrih

Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih is a well-known author from Sohra, Meghalaya. He writes poetry, plays, and fiction in both Khasi and English. Kynpham teaches literature at North-Eastern Hill University in Shillong. Some of his notable works include ‘The Distaste of the Earth: A Novel’, ‘The Yearning of Seeds: Poems’, ‘Time’s Barter: Haiku and Senryu’ and ‘Around the Hearth: Khasi Legends’. One of his latest works is the critically acclaimed novel Funeral Nights. In addition to his books, he has also published poems and stories in various journals, such as ‘Planet: The Welsh Internationalist’, ‘Wasafiri’, ‘The New Welsh Review’, ‘PEN International’, ‘The Literary Review’, and ‘Karavan’. Throughout his career, he has received several awards, including: Northeast Poetry Award (2004), Veer Shankar Shah-Raghunath Shah National Award (2008), Tagore Fellowship (2018), The Bangalore Review June Jazz Award (2021), Sparrow Literary Award (2022).