Amal Mathew and Satya Dash Celebrate Victory at 2026 Osmosis Poetry Prize

The prestigious Osmosis Poetry Prize, a beacon for contemporary Indian poetry in English, was awarded to Amal Mathew and Satya Dash this year. Established in 2025 by a trio of poets—Yashasvi Vachhani, Kunjana Parashar, and Kinjal Sethia—this award seeks to highlight the vibrant voices of modern Indian poets and their contributions to the literary landscape.

Each winner receives a cash prize of Rs 10,000 along with a citation from an esteemed external judge, ensuring that the recognition holds substantial value within the literary community. This year, the role of the external judge was entrusted to acclaimed translator and writer Rohan Chhetri, who provided insights into the winning works.

Chhetri praised Amal Mathew’s poetry for its intricate, prose-like structure, which delves into complex themes and emotional landscapes. He described Mathew’s poems as a compelling blend of myth and personal narrative, featuring a speaker who echoes figures from classical literature, like Oedipus and Orpheus. This duality of character enriches the poems, allowing them to explore not just the personal, but also the universal, as they navigate through themes of homecoming and nostalgia.

Mathew’s works evoke a sense of returning to a metaphorical hometown, reminiscent of the ghost town of Comala from Juan Rulfo’s renowned novel, “Pedro Páramo.” Here, the poet’s exploration transcends mere geography; it becomes a journey through the essence of memory and identity. Chhetri highlighted the ethereal quality of Mathew’s voice, suggesting that it resonates with an otherworldly undertone, engendering a deep connection with readers.

Meanwhile, Satya Dash’s contributions have equally captivated audiences, marking a significant presence in this year’s competition. Although details of Dash’s winning poetry are less extensively covered, the recognition alongside Mathew emphasizes the depth and diversity present in contemporary Indian poetry. As the Osmosis Poetry Prize continues to encourage emerging voices and established poets alike, it promises to serve as a vital platform for the literary arts in India.

Source: scroll.in