Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Novelist, Poet & Essayist
Award-winning author known for her powerful portrayals of South Asian women and mythological retellings. Her work bridges cultures and generations.
About
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a celebrated Indian-American author whose works have bridged cultural divides and explored the emotional landscapes of women across generations. Born in Kolkata, she moved to the United States for her higher education, earning a PhD in English from the University of California, Berkeley. Her writing—spanning fiction, poetry, and essays—explores themes of myth, migration, identity, and empowerment.
Her breakout collection, Arranged Marriage, won the American Book Award and brought global attention to her voice. The Palace of Illusions and The Forest of Enchantments are among her most beloved books, retelling ancient epics from the perspectives of Draupadi and Sita. These mythological reimaginings bring a feminist gaze to revered stories, making them resonate with new relevance.
She is a professor of creative writing at the University of Houston and an activist supporting literacy and women’s rights. Her influence extends beyond literature, with several of her works adapted for film and stage. Divakaruni continues to be a vital voice in contemporary literature, blending lyrical language with powerful narratives.
Published Books
Recommended Reading
Awards & Recognition
National Book Award Finalist
2009Recognized for The Palace of Illusions, praised for its inventive narrative and literary merit.
American Book Award
2010Honored for excellence in literary fiction by a diverse voice in American literature.
Sahitya Akademi Award
2022Awarded for outstanding contribution to Indian English literature.
Famous Quotes
"Stories have the power to shift perspectives and heal."
"Sometimes, retelling a myth is the most radical thing you can do."
"We are all the sum of our stories, told and untold."
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