Petals and thorns: India's Booker prize author Banu Mushtaq

Her book "Heart Lamp", a collection of 12 powerful short stories, is her first book translated into English, with the prize shared with her translator Deepa Bhasthi.

Banu Mushtaq. / And Other Stories.

All writers draw on their experience, whether consciously or not, says Indian author Banu Mushtaq -- including the titular tale of attempted self-immolation in her International Booker Prize-winning short story collection.

Mushtaq, who won the coveted literature prize as the first author writing in Kannada -- an Indian regional language -- said the author's responsibility is to reflect the truth.

"You cannot simply write describing a rose," said the 77-year-old, who is also a lawyer and activist.

"You cannot say it has got such a fragrance, such petals, such colour. You have to write about the thorns also. It is your responsibility, and you have to do it."

Her book "Heart Lamp", a collection of 12 powerful short stories, is also her first book translated into English, with the prize shared with her translator Deepa Bhasthi.

Also read: Banu Mushtaq’s Heart Lamp wins 2025 International Booker Prize

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