New Delhi: Highlighting the finest in contemporary Indian literature, the Valley of Words (VoW) has announced the winners of VoW-REC Book Awards 2024 in eight categories. The winners, said VoW, were chosen from a “diverse pool of entries” and “recognised for their exceptional ability to weave narratives that resonate deeply with readers”.
The jury, said a press statement by VoW, recognised Zen by Shabnam Minwalla—a novel revolving around the lives of two girls named Zainab from different eras—as the most celebrated novel for young adults. It quoted jury member Mandira Shah as saying that the novel’s “relevance to contemporary socio-political issues and its empowering message of standing up for one’s beliefs make it a standout choice”.
Vibha Batra’s The Chhau Champ was recognised as the most noteworthy work of literature for children. The book, which tells the story of a young girl breaking gender norms to pursue her passion for a traditionally male-dominated dance, was described by jury member Achintyarup Ray as a “vibrant tale” that “highlights the importance of perseverance and self-belief, making it a delightful read for young audiences”.
In the English Non-Fiction category, Manoj Mitta’s Caste Pride: Battles for Equality in Hindu India was chosen for its thorough research and compelling narrative which jury member Dr Ishtiaq Ahmed said provided a “critical examination of social justice, making it an essential read for understanding contemporary India”.
Smriti Ravindra’s debut novel The Woman Who Climbed Trees, was recognised as the most notable work of literature in the English Fiction category. About the novel, which essays the intergenerational exploration of a woman’s journey in the background of two countries’ fraught histories, jury member Surekha Dangwal said, “Its lyrical prose and the vivid portrayal of its characters offer a rich tapestry of personal and cultural histories.”
In the English Translation category, Truth/Untruth translated from Mahashweta Devi’s Bangla original by Anjum Katyal, was recognised for bringing a powerful narrative of class and urban exploitation to a wider audience. According to jury member Lalit Kumar, the translation “preserves the essence of the original, exploring themes of truth, morality, and societal hypocrisy”.
In the Hindi Translation category, Ambar Pariya, translated by Subhash Nirav from Baljinder Nasrali’s original work in Punjabi—which captures the essence of a love story amidst social and familial tension—was the choice of jury member Amrita Bera. The translation, said Bera, ensures that the story’s emotional depth and cultural nuances are preserved.
Jury member Neelesh Raghuvanshi chose Uday Prakash’s Antim Nimbu as the most noteworthy work of literature in the Hindi Fiction category. Praising Prakash for his innovative storytelling, the jury said the book holds up “a mirror to Indian society and Indian life as well as universal themes”.
Shabdon ke Sath Sath by Dr Suresh Pant, recognised in the Hindi Non-Fiction category, is described as a comprehensive guide to the Hindi language. The statement by VoW quoted jury member Laxmi Shankar Bajpai as saying that the book’s “detailed analysis of linguistic challenges and its celebration of Hindi’s richness make it an invaluable resource for language enthusiasts and scholars”.
ThePrint is the digital media partner for the Valley of Words Book Awards 2024.
Also Read: VoW celebrates ‘National Reading Month’ in honour of PN Panicker, to announce book awards shortlist