Interestingly, though, Desai chose the English language in Indian literature as her focus, neither she nor the four speakers mentioned that only three English authors have been conferred fellowship. A trip to the Sahitya Akademi library confirmed this discrepancy, as the establishment is all but void of English volumes. Desai, on an evening that celebrated her eminent style and prodigious output, was featured on nary a shelf or table.
One attendee, a contemporary of Desai who desired anonymity, expressed her disappointment.
"I perceive it as a snub and a glaring omission. One can't even purchase a copy of her book. How can [Sahitya Akademi president] Gopi Chand Narang wax on about the Sahitya Akademi's commitment to English when the finest author of Indian-English isn't featured in the bookstore!"
But, if Anita noticed this herself as she toured the store, she didn't let on.
"I am honoured, almost embarrassed to hear such kind words from such illustrious peers."
Also read: Where Mumbai is the muse...
Advertisement
