The Hindu prize for fiction has issued its annual call for entries -- though note: "Only works of literary merit will be considered".
Of more concern to me, the disappointing news that, once again:
Years ago I voice my disappointment about this same limitation, and was assured:
What a terrible message it sends to those in India writing in languages other than English. (It leaves the Crossword Book Award, and its 'Translation Award', as the major Indian literary prize willing to consider works that weren't originally written in English.)
Of more concern to me, the disappointing news that, once again:
Only original works in English will be eligible. Works in Indian languages or translations are not eligible.(Because, you know, it's an Indian literary prize, and all these annoying local languages are ... well, apparently just annoying and better disregarded.)
Years ago I voice my disappointment about this same limitation, and was assured:
We will be branching into more categories covering translations, regional languages and others in subsequent editions of the award.God, I am a gullible, stupid arsehole, aren't I ? I actually thought they meant it.
What a terrible message it sends to those in India writing in languages other than English. (It leaves the Crossword Book Award, and its 'Translation Award', as the major Indian literary prize willing to consider works that weren't originally written in English.)