Every year, thousands of young Indian authors with complete manuscripts are turned away from publishing houses. Without the right contacts or an exceptional amount of luck, getting a manuscript read is almost impossible. But that may no longer be the case.
Launching soon is ‘India Writes Well’, a nation-wide hunt for the “MS Dhonis of Indian literature”. Spearheaded by Delhi-based publishing house Wisdom Tree, the campaign is aimed at giving budding writers a chance to get read by millions.
The campaign will kick off early next month, coinciding with the Delhi Book Fair, all over the country — not only in metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi but even in smaller places like Coimbatore and Chandigarh. Interestingly, this is open even for writers in Hindi.
“You could say we are looking for Mahinder Singh Dhonis of Indian literature — men and women rooted in reality with a clarity of vision and an instinctive magical skill with words. There is a treasure trove out there; this is just a small endeavour to unearth some,” said Shobit Arya, publisher, Wisdom Tree.
A similar campaign is also being launched by children’s audiobooks publisher Karadi Tales. ‘Called Will You Write With Me’, the contest calls on aspiring writers to complete a half written story in 800 words. The prize — a publishing contract.
{{/usCountry}}A similar campaign is also being launched by children’s audiobooks publisher Karadi Tales. ‘Called Will You Write With Me’, the contest calls on aspiring writers to complete a half written story in 800 words. The prize — a publishing contract.
{{/usCountry}}Given the opportunities opening up for writers-in-the-making, it’s time to sharpen your pencils.