The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, has unveiled the 2025 Yuva Puraskar recipients—recognizing 23 dynamic writers under 35 for outstanding literary contributions across 23 Indian languages. Each honoree receives an engraved copper plaque and ₹50,000, awarded at a later formal ceremony
Leading the spotlight is Akhil P. Dharmajan for his Malayalam novel Ram c/o Anandhi. Set against the backdrop of Alleppey and Chennai, the story explores ambition, identity, and social dynamics—featuring profound characters like film-school receptionist Anandhi and Malli, a transgender woman. “Ever since I heard the news, my hands and legs have been trembling,” Dharmajan said, expressing heartfelt gratitude
In Hindi, Parvati Tirkey, a tribal poet and assistant professor from Jharkhand, earns acclaim for Phir Ugna, her evocative poetry collection featured in her doctoral work. Tirkey, born January 16, 1994, at Gumla, completed her PhD at BHU and represents increasing recognition of tribal voices in mainstream literature
From Odisha, two authors stand out: Subrat Kumar Senapati (Kadambabana, Odia short stories) and Fagu Baskey (Ala Saon Inj, Santali poetry). Senapati, a SOA University faculty member, delves into underrepresented communities, while Baskey is a pioneer in digitising Santali literature, heralding a broader linguistic inclusion
The awards paint a rich mosaic of genres and languages. The full list of winners spans poetry, novels, short stories, literary criticism, and even epic and devotional forms in languages ranging from Assamese (Kushiyarama, Supraksam Bhuyan) to Urdu (Maulard…, Neetu Rubabi)
The Akademi’s Executive Board, chaired by President Madhav Kaushik, followed jury recommendations in evaluating works published between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2023
These accolades are more than recognition—they are a platform for India’s emerging literary landscape. From urban narratives and minority voices to formal critique and poetic experimentation, the Yuva Puraskar spotlights young writers infusing regional literature with fresh energy and national relevance.
The Sahitya Akademi will host a formal award ceremony in Delhi later this year to honour the winners. Meanwhile, these works offer readers a kaleidoscope of contemporary India—its hopes, challenges, and creative diversity, There is no award in Dogri language this year.
COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERS
| Winners List | CLICK HERE |
