In his farm with five pet dogs, Booker winner Deepa Bhasthi's husband celebrates in Kodagu
While Karnataka's Kodagu-born writer Deepa Bhasthi celebrates a historic International Booker Prize win in London, her husband Chettira Sujan Nanaiah is celebrating in his own quiet way — on his farm, with five pet dogs, and congratulatory phone calls at their peaceful home in Madikeri.
On Tuesday night, Ms. Bhasthi, along with writer-activist Banu Mushtaq, was awarded the prestigious GBP 50,000 International Booker Prize for her translation of the latter's short story collection, Heart Lamp. While the literary world applauded her in London, back home in Kodagu, the win was met with joy, disbelief, and a bit of solitude.
Speaking to The Hindu over the phone on Wednesday morning, Sujan Nanaiah — an artist-turned-farmer — shared his happiness. 'She's still in shock and joy. We spoke briefly in the morning. I couldn't be there with her due to other commitments, but I'm extremely happy and proud,' he said.
Quiet life in Madikeri
The couple, who moved to their native Madikeri during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been living a quiet life on their farm surrounded by lush greenery. 'It's a simple life. We grow our own food, look after our pets, and enjoy being close to nature,' he said.
Mr. Nanaiah, who studied fine arts at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath in Bengaluru, first met Ms. Bhasthi seven years ago at an art exhibition where he was a participant. What began as a friendship evolved into marriage and a shared life in Kodagu.
As calls poured in from family and friends, Mr. Nanaiah was busy tending to farm duties and looking after their pets. 'I didn't expect her to win, but I'm thrilled for her and the recognition it brings to Kannada literature,' he said, adding that he was the one who shared the good news with Bhasthi's parents on May 21 morning. 'They were emotional and proud. It's a big moment for our family,' he added.
Born and raised in Madikeri, Ms. Bhasthi studied at Kodagu Vidyalaya before moving to Mangaluru for a degree in Mass Communication. She worked with print publications in Bengaluru before transitioning to freelance writing and literary translation.
Mr. Nanaiah said that Deepa's return to Kodagu is expected around May 26, though her schedule is still uncertain. For now, as she enjoys her moment on the international stage, her immensely proud husband continues to hold fort at their serene Madikeri farmhouse.
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