Mysore/Mysuru, July 5 -- The opening session of the 9th Mysuru Literature Festival set the tone for a thought-provoking weekend with a powerful conversation titled "Lighting the Way: Kannada, Women and the Booker's International Stage."

The panel featured Kannada litterateur Banu Mushtaq and acclaimed translator Deepa Bhasthi, winners of the 2025 International Booker Prize for 'Heart Lamp', a translated collection of short stories. The session was moderated by Bharath Diwakar.

Banu Mushtaq described the global recognition as "lightning in a night sky," adding, "I am reliving the glory. Wherever I travel, I receive laurels, respect, recognition and love."

Responding to a question on social change, she said, "My role is to portray the ev...