Celebrated Indian author, journalist, and critic Nilanjana S. Roy has been announced as one of the five judges for the prestigious 2026 International Booker Prize. Based in New Delhi, Roy brings a rich background in fiction, translation, and literary journalism, making her appointment a notable moment for South Asian representation on a global literary stage.
The judging panel for the 2026 edition is chaired by Natasha Brown, the acclaimed British author of Assembly, a novel known for its poignant take on race, identity, and womanhood in modern Britain.
She will be joined by:
Marcus du Sautoy, an Oxford mathematician and author exploring the nexus of science and the arts,
Sophie Hughes, a prominent translator recognised for introducing Latin American literature to English readers, and
Troy Onyango, a Kenyan writer and founder of the literary platform Lolwe, who also owns an independent bookstore in Nairobi.
Together, the panel brings a wealth of experience from varied disciplines, ensuring the selection process is both intellectually rigorous and culturally nuanced.
Honouring the best in translated fiction
The International Booker Prize celebrates outstanding works of fiction translated into English. With a £50,000 award split between the winning author and translator, the prize recognises the collaborative nature of storytelling across languages. Additionally, each shortlisted title earns £5,000, also shared equally between author and translator.
A powerful moment for South Asian literature
Roy’s inclusion on the jury reflects a broader shift in the global literary conversation, with growing interest in diverse and underrepresented voices. Known for her deep engagement with Indian and South Asian literary landscapes, Roy has long championed the need for inclusive storytelling and nuanced narratives.
Speaking about her role, she remarked, “To translate is to undertake a powerful act of generosity, creativity and connection, to ferry literature across from one language to another, to forge kinship across distance.”
The prize cycle kicks off with the longlist announcement on February 24, 2026, followed by a shortlist of six titles on March 31, and culminating in a winner reveal at a special ceremony in May 2026.
Celebrating Translation as Literary Art
More than just a literary award, the International Booker Prize is a celebration of translation as a bridge between cultures. It underscores how literature can transcend borders and language barriers, bringing stories to life for new audiences worldwide. With Roy on the panel, this year’s prize promises a thoughtfully curated list shaped by a unique South Asian sensibility.
