Mysuru: Writer Anupama Prasad's short story collection 'Chodya' has been awarded the prestigious Dr Vijaya Dabbe Literary Award for the year 2026. The award, instituted in 2022 by the Samatha Adhyayana Kendra based in Mysuru, aims to recognize and honor outstanding literary contributions by women writers.
Award Details
Entries for the award were invited from short story collections published between 2022 and 2025. A total of 63 entries were received, showcasing the vibrant literary talent among women writers. The jury comprised Dr Sabitha Bannadi, Swami Ponnachi, and Dr MS Veda, who evaluated the submissions. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 25,000, as stated in the official release.
State-Level Competition Results
The Samatha Adhyayana Kendra also announced the results of state-level poetry and light essay competitions held in memory of Dr Vijaya Dabbe. In the poetry category, open to participants aged 20 to 35 years, Darshan Kumar secured the first prize. Jyothirlakshmi won the second prize, while Achala B. Henli bagged the third prize. The jury also awarded special mentions to Seema Shiraguppi from Shegunasi, Athani taluk, and YS Supriya from Hanumantha Nagar, Bengaluru.
In the light essay category for women aged 20 to 40 years, Achala B. Henli won the first prize, and Radhika S from Amasebailu, Kundapura taluk, received the second prize.
Upcoming Events
In association with the Karnataka Lekhakiyara Sangha, the Samatha Adhyayana Kendra will organize a two-day poetry workshop starting from May 31. The awards ceremony for all competitions is scheduled to take place on June 1 at 4 pm, according to a release issued by the kendra's president, Sabiha Bhoomigowda.
This recognition highlights the growing platform for women writers in Karnataka and encourages literary excellence across genres.
