MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda visited International Booker Prize winner Deepa Bhasti at her residence in Madikeri to congratulate her. He presented her with a coffee garland and received a copy of her award-winning book Heart Lamp.
He praised her for making Kodagu proud and assured government support for her future literary endeavors. He emphasized the global impact of translated literature, noting that Heart Lamp, a translation of Banu Mushtaq’s emotionally resonant poetry, had brought international recognition to Madikeri.
Dr. Gowda expressed admiration for Mrs. Bhasti’s dedication, remarking on how the serene environment of Madikeri inspired her work. He announced plans for student engagement sessions with Mrs. Bhasti to encourage literary interest among youth.
Mrs. Bhasti revealed she is currently translating Edde Andre Edde Ella Andre Ella by SamudyathaVenkataramu and has plans to publish her own book. She clarified that Heart Lamp includes selected stories from Bhanu Mushtaq’s works and not the entire Edeya Hanate collection.
She shared that the translation process spanned three years and that she would soon travel internationally for promotional events. She credited the natural beauty of Kodagu as a continuous source of inspiration.
Present on the occasion were her husband Chettira Nanaiah, parents Prakash and Sudha Bhasti, and journalist Anil H.T.
