Literary Rebel: Banu Mushtaq's Voice for the Voiceless

Banu Mushtaq, a distinguished 77-year-old writer and activist, has consistently employed her literary work as a catalyst for social intervention. Her prolific career has significantly placed Karnataka on the global literary stage, with her greatest pride stemming from amplifying the voices of the marginalized. Mushtaq views writing not as a solitary pursuit but as a profound responsibility, particularly concerning the narratives of women.

She stresses the imperative to continuously highlight women's realities, asserting that their centuries-long oppression within patriarchal structures persists and is increasingly institutionalized. This conviction is deeply rooted in her formative years during a vibrant period of cultural activism in Karnataka. She began writing at 29 amidst significant socio-political movements and a literary shift from modernism to rebellion.

Mushtaq champions the principle of 'Local is Global,' advising young writers to remain grounded in their heritage. She believes that literature preserving local dialects, emotions, and authenticity resonates powerfully worldwide. In contrast to the fleeting nature of digital media, she asserts that literature's impact is deep and enduring, requiring sustained effort over years.

While acknowledging Bengaluru's substantial contribution to Kannada literature, with many authors settling there, Mushtaq defends the city's cosmopolitan identity. She contends that its diverse nature does not erase its cultural depth, maintaining a strong sense of belonging for its residents.