About the Book: This collection presents 12 compelling stories originally written in Kannada, illuminating the lives of Muslim women and girls in southern India. Through dry humour and emotional depth, the tales explore themes such as gender inequality, religious and caste oppression, and resilience in the face of societal constraints. The narrative voice is vivid, colloquial, and honest, drawing from Mushtaq’s experience as a journalist, lawyer, and activist. The translation retains elements from Kannada, Urdu, and Arabic, enriching the texture of the stories and preserving cultural authenticity. Awarded the 2025 International Booker Prize, this collection marks a historic achievement as the first short story collection—and first Kannada-language work—to receive the honour.
