2026 Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay NIF Book Prize Longlist Unveiled by New India Foundation

The New India Foundation has unveiled its longlist for the prestigious 2026 Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay NIF Book Prize, showcasing ten remarkable nonfiction works that delve into contemporary India. This year’s selection was made by a distinguished jury, chaired by N Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Group, alongside notable figures such as political scientist Niraja Gopal Jayal, legal expert Rahul Matthan, historian of science Jahnavi Phalkey, military historian Srinath Raghavan, former Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao, and entrepreneur Manish Sabharwal.

The announcement comes as anticipation builds for the announcement of the shortlist at the end of this month. The final winner will be revealed in early December, receiving a cash award of ₹15 lakh, with the award ceremony scheduled to take place during the Bangalore Literature Festival. Jayal, who is also the jury chair, expressed that this year’s longlist exemplifies the rich diversity and depth of nonfiction literature surrounding modern India. She noted, “The ten selected titles provide unique insights into the people, ideas, and movements that have significantly influenced our nation’s trajectory.”

This Book Prize, which was instituted in 2018, aims to acknowledge exceptional works either originally written in English or translated into English, covering an expansive array of nonfiction genres. The longlisted titles reflect contemporary themes and historical narratives, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of India’s socio-political landscape.

The complete longlist includes:

• A Man for All Seasons: The Life of KM Panikkar by Narayani Basu, published by Context/Westland
• For a Just Republic: The People of India and the State by Partha Chatterjee, published by Permanent Black
• Shattered Lands: Five Partitions and the Making of Modern Asia by Sam Dalrymple, published by HarperCollins India
• …and more titles that engage with critical historical and cultural themes.

As the country continues to evolve, the NIF Book Prize plays a crucial role in highlighting the voices and narratives that define India today. By recognizing these influential works, the Foundation hopes to inspire further exploration and discussion around the complexities of Indian identity and heritage.

Source: scroll.in