The third edition of the Goncourt Choice of India, the international counterpart of the esteemed French literary prize Prix Goncourt, was celebrated at a literary evening held at the Residence of France in New Delhi. The prestigious award was bestowed upon “Triste Tigre” by Neige Sinno, following a deliberation by a student jury comprising nine “presidents” from various Indian universities, representing a total of 44 jury members across India.
Despite the time difference, the excitement of the announcement reached author Neige Sinno in Mexico, where she resides. Expressing her gratitude in a heartfelt message, Sinno thanked the Indian readers for recognizing her work and reflected on the profound connection that literature fosters among people from diverse backgrounds.
“Triste Tigre” was selected from a shortlist that included notable titles such as “Sarah, Susanne et l’écrivain” by Éric Reinhardt, “Veiller sur elle” by Jean-Baptiste Andrea, and “Humus” by Gaspard Koenig. The winning book captivated the jury with its exploration of themes such as karma, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of life.
The International Goncourt Choice initiative, undertaken by the Académie Goncourt in over thirty countries worldwide, has gained momentum in India since its inception in 2021. This year, nine Indian institutions participated in the selection process, engaging in extensive readings and discussions under the guidance of university professors.
Nishi Shah, representing the jury of the Alliance Française Network, commended “Triste Tigre” for its profound intellectual inquiries and its ability to challenge societal taboos, particularly regarding discussions on incest. Sinno’s narrative was praised for its depth and intertextuality, offering readers a thought-provoking experience that transcends traditional literary boundaries.
The evening also featured ‘A Night Out With Words,’ an intimate literary event celebrating the beauty and musicality of literature. This year’s theme focused on speculative fiction and fantasy, with renowned writers from France and India, including Pierre Bordage and Carina Rozenfeld, captivating the audience with readings and reflections on the genre’s significance.
Speculative fiction, encompassing science fiction and fantasy narratives, provides a platform for exploring contemporary questions and dilemmas while envisioning alternative futures. France, with its rich tradition of speculative fiction, hosts the largest international science fiction festival, Les Utopiales, and continues to recognize the genre’s potential to shape discussions on important societal issues.
Pierre Bordage and Carina Rozenfeld’s visit to India, organized by the Alliance française de Pondichéry and supported by the French Institute in India, underscores the growing interest in speculative fiction within the literary community. Their tour, which included events in Puducherry, Chennai, Kolkata, and Chandigarh, facilitated meaningful interactions and sparked lively discussions on creativity and interpretation.
Overall, the literary evening in New Delhi celebrated the power of literature to bridge cultural divides and ignite conversations on pressing global issues. Through initiatives like the Goncourt Choice of India and events like ‘A Night Out With Words,’ the literary landscape in India continues to thrive, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives.