Easterine Kire’s Spirit Nights Wins the 2024 Sahitya Akademi Award in English Language
Renowned author Easterine Kire has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Sahitya Akademi Award in the English language category for her critically acclaimed novel, Spirit Nights. This recognition solidifies Kire’s standing as one of the foremost literary voices from Nagaland and a champion of storytelling rooted in the cultural and historical narratives of the region.
Published in 2022 by Simon and Schuster India, Spirit Nights is inspired by an oral tale of darkness from the Chang Naga tribe of Nagaland. While it incorporates elements of the original narrative, Kire’s novel takes a fictional approach to craft a compelling and evocative story. Her exploration of themes such as spirituality, folklore, and identity has resonated with readers and critics alike.
The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, announced the award on December 18, 2024. The awards recognize outstanding literary contributions in 21 languages, celebrating works across various genres, including poetry, novels, short stories, essays, literary criticism, plays, and research.
A Celebrated Literary Journey
Easterine Kire’s contributions to literature have been widely acknowledged over the years. Her novel When the River Sleeps won The Hindu Literary Prize in 2015, and Son of the Thundercloud earned the Bal Sahitya Puraskar from the Sahitya Akademi in 2018. Kire has also been the recipient of the Governor's Medal for excellence in Naga literature in 2011.
Her work is characterized by a deep commitment to preserving and promoting the rich oral traditions and cultural heritage of Nagaland. With Spirit Nights, she continues her mission to bring the stories of her homeland to a global audience.
About the Sahitya Akademi Award
The Sahitya Akademi Award is one of the most coveted honors in Indian literature. Winners receive a casket containing an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 8, 2025, in New Delhi.
Easterine Kire’s achievement not only celebrates her literary excellence but also highlights the diverse and vibrant storytelling traditions of India’s Northeast. Her recognition is a testament to the power of regional voices in enriching the landscape of Indian literature.
