Heart Lamp

The "Heart Lamp" is a collection of twelve stories written by author Banu Mushtaq and nominated for the International Booker Prize 2025. These narratives vividly portray the everyday lives of women and girls in Muslim communities in southern India. Mushtaq's storytelling style is characterized by a subtle, dry humor that highlights the tensions within families and communities. The stories are not only of literary value but also provide deep insights into the diverse realities of contemporary women. The translation by Deepa Bhasthi captures the nuances of the original voices and contexts, making this significant work accessible to an international audience. Thus, the "Heart Lamp" is not only a literary work but also an important cultural document that amplifies the voices of women in an often-overlooked society.