KLF Announces Winners of Annual Kalinga Literary Festival Book Awards in 12 Categories

The Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) proudly announced the winners of the prestigious KLF Book Awards 2025, recognizing outstanding literary contributions across 12 categories. The awards, conferred by Union Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, celebrate the finest works in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, business, translation, children’s literature, and debut writing in both English and Hindi.

Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) announced the name of winners of KLF Book Awards 2024 in various categories — Non-fiction, Fiction, Poetry, Business, translation, Children & Debut in Hindi and English. This year’s winner list, drawn from a competitive longlist, showcases remarkable literary achievements across diverse genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, children’s literature, business, translations, and debut works.

The formal proceedings began with dignitaries making their way to the dais, where the traditional Lighting of the Lamp and Saraswati Vandana infused the event with a sense of reverence and cultural richness. Ashok Kumar Bal, CEO & Patron of KLF, delivered a compelling Welcome and Inaugural Speech, underscoring the festival’s unwavering commitment to recognizing literary brilliance and fostering a spirit of cross-cultural dialogue.

Following this, Rashmi Ranjan Parida, the visionary Founder & Director of KLF, addressed the gathering, offering a heartfelt reflection on the journey of the festival and the pivotal role of the Book Awards in shaping contemporary literary discourse. His words highlighted the evolution of KLF as a significant platform that nurtures and celebrates the literary spirit.

The most awaited moment arrived as the winners of the KLF Book Awards 2025 were announced. Applause filled the hall as the literary achievements of remarkable authors were honored across various categories. The felicitation ceremony witnessed an outpouring of appreciation for the authors whose works have contributed significantly to the literary landscape.

A high point of the gathering was the address by the Chief Guest, Honourable Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who delivered an inspiring speech on the cultural and historical significance of literature. His words served as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the need to nurture creative voices that reflect the essence of India’s diverse literary traditions.

With 5 categories in Hindi and 7 in English, the awards highlight the richness and diversity of contemporary literature. Each Book winners awarded with ₹1 lakh, citation, trophy & traditional shawl. These selections are a testament to KLF’s commitment to honoring groundbreaking works that inspire, connect, and provoke thought.

This year’s winner list English includes notable works such as Dr.  Vikram Sampath’s “Tipu Sultan: The Saga of Mysore’s Interregnum (1760-1799)” published by, Penguin, Nandini Purandare, Deepa Balsavar’s book “The Sherpa Trail: Stories from Darjeeling and Beyond” published by Roli Books,  Vikas Swarup’s ‘The Girl with the Seven Lives’   published by Simon & Schuster, Rohit Manchanda’s book “The Enclave : A Sharp and Hilarious Portrait of Womanhood in India” published by Harper Collins, Poet Jeet Thayil’s book “I’ll  Have It Here” published by HarperCollins, Smarak Swain’s ‘Digital Fortunes: A Value Investor’s Guide to the New Economy’ published by Bloomsbury India,    Translator Arunava Sinha’s work “Ten Days of the Strike: Selected Stories – Written by Sandipan Chattopadhyay”, Debutant writer Neha Dixit’s book “The Many Lives of Syeda X : The Story of an Unknown Indian” published by Juggernaut  and Savie Karnel’s book “Laxmi Panda: The Story of Netaji’s Youngest Spy” published by Westland.

This year’s winner list Hindi  includes notable works such as Writer Anant Vijay’s book “Over The Top : OTT ka Mayajaal Book” published by Prabhat Prakashan, Manisha Kulsherstha’s book “Vanya” published by Rajpal And Sons, Prabhat Ranjan’s book “Kissagram” published by Rajpal And Sons , Poet Shirish Kumar Maurya’s book “Dharm Wah Naav Nahin” published by Rajkamal Prakashan, Sujata Shiven’s translated by “Charu, Chivar Aur Charya –By Pradeep Das” published by Penguin, Debutant writer Gautam Choubey’s book “Chakka Jaam” published by Rajkamal Prakashan. These selections exemplify the rich tapestry of narratives that the KLF Book Awards aim to honor. The KLF Book Awards are not just accolades but a celebration of the enduring power of literature to connect, inspire, and transform.

Reflecting on KLF’s Legacy and Future

Rashmi Ranjan Parida, Founder & Director of KLF, remarked, “Over the years, KLF has grown into a vibrant literary movement, fostering dialogues and bridging cultures. The KLF Book Awards celebrate literary excellence and reinforce our commitment to honoring works that challenge perspectives, inspire generations, and contribute to a richer literary landscape.”

Ashok Kumar Bal, CEO of KLF, highlighted, “The 2025 award-winning books are more than just literary masterpieces—they are voices shaping intellectual discourse. As KLF moves forward, we envision these works sparking new conversations, broadening worldviews, and leaving an indelible mark on readers across the globe.” 

Honoring Excellence Across Languages

In addition to honoring 15 exceptional books in English, and Hindi, the KLF Book Awards will recognize 4 outstanding works in Sanskrit, and Odia language and literature during the annual Kalinga Literary Festival next month in Bhubaneswar from March 21–23, 2025. Since its inception, the KLF Book Awards have become a benchmark for literary recognition, celebrating the best of India’s literary heritage while fostering dialogue across languages and genres. The overwhelming response to this year’s awards underscores their growing stature and the vibrant role literature plays in shaping society.

As the event drew to a close, Prof. Kamala Kanta Dash delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the efforts of all those who contributed to making the occasion a resounding success. His words resonated with gratitude for the authors, scholars, sponsors, and literary enthusiasts who continue to make KLF a thriving platform for intellectual and creative exchange.

The celebrations concluded with a lunch gathering at the lush lawns of the India International Centre, where conversations flowed freely among attendees, reflecting on the impact of the day’s discussions and the future of literature in India. Adding to the grandeur of the occasion, the book A Various World, authored by Ashok Kumar Bal, was formally launched.  The event continued with an engaging session featuring members of the KLF Advisory Board, who shared their perspectives on contemporary literary trends and the evolving role of literature in shaping society. Their discourse provided a stimulating discussion on the responsibilities of writers and the importance of storytelling in today’s world. Distinguished advisors like PK Das, Tanaya Pattanayk, Yatindra Mishra, Pratap Somvanshi, Prof. Jatindra Kumar Nayak also congratulated the team KLF for creating this national level award in Delhi. The program was moderated by renowned RJ Rahul Makin.

The Kalinga Literary Festival remains steadfast in its mission to celebrate literary excellence, encourage intellectual discourse, and bring together diverse voices to enrich India’s literary heritage.

The shortlists in each category and the eminent juries that decided the awards are as follows:

 Kalinga Literary Festival Book Awardees 2024