2026 Crossword Book Awards Unveils Longlists Across Five Categories

The anticipation for the 2026 Crossword Book Awards continues to build as the organizers have unveiled the longlists featuring ten books in five distinct categories: Fiction, Nonfiction, Translation, Children’s Literature, and Business and Management. The shortlisted titles will be revealed in October, while the ultimate winners will be honored at a ceremony scheduled for December in Mumbai.

This prestigious award celebrates literary excellence in India, with each category evaluated by a specialized jury of acclaimed authors and critics. The Fiction jury includes notable figures such as Anuja Chauhan, Manju Kapur, and Samit Basu, each bringing their unique perspectives to the judging process. Likewise, the Nonfiction jury, comprised of Anirudh Kanisetti, Jyoti Malhotra, and Naresh Fernandes, is set to delve deep into the narratives that shape our understanding of the world.

Translation, an essential category in a multilingual nation like India, is in the capable hands of judges Meena Kandasamy, Ranjit Hoskote, and Srinath Perur. Their role is crucial in recognizing works that bridge linguistic divides. The jury for Children’s books, which includes Fiona Fernandez, Payal Kapadia, and Ranjit Lal, aims to highlight stories that resonate with young readers, nurturing their imagination and encouraging a love for reading. Lastly, the Business and Management category will be scrutinized by Monika Halan, Rama Bijapurkar, and Shrayana Bhattacharya, who will assess works that tackle the complexities of modern business practices.

The longlist for Nonfiction features an array of compelling titles, reflecting diverse themes and narratives. Among these is ‘Believer’s Dilemma: Vajpayee and the Hindu Right’s Path to Power, 1978–2018’ by Abhishek Choudhary, which examines the political landscape of India through the lens of a significant figure. Anuradha Roy’s ‘Called by the Hills: A Home in the Himalayas’ offers a personal perspective on life in the mountains, while Ipsita Chakravarty’s ‘Dapaan: Tales from Kashmir’s Conflict’ explores the enduring consequences of conflict in the region.

Other notable entries in the Nonfiction category include ‘Scamlands: Inside the Ancient Empire of Fraud That Preys on the World’ by Snigdha Poonam, which investigates the darker facets of globalization, and ‘The Dig: Keeladi and Politics of India’s Past’ by Sowmiya Ashok, shedding light on archaeological significance. Sumana Ramanan’s ‘The Secret Master: Arun Kashalkar and a Journey to the Edge of Music’ delves into the world of music, while Anurag’s ‘The Great Indian Brain Rot: Love, Lies & Algorithms in Digital India’ critiques the impact of technology on contemporary life.

The Crossword Book Awards not only recognize literary talent but also contribute to the vibrant literary culture in India. As the literary community eagerly awaits the shortlist announcement, the longlists serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of narratives emerging from the nation. Writers and readers alike can look forward to a celebration of creativity and intellect as the year progresses.

Source: scroll.in