The Kannada Nadu Writers and Readers Cooperative Society (Kannada Nadu Lekhakara Mattu Odugara Sahakara Sangha Niyamita) in Kalaburagi has issued a call for submissions for the Kannada Nadu awards, inviting first-edition books by authors from the Kalyana Karnataka region. The society said entries are sought for works published in 2024 across several literary categories.
Kannada Nadu awards: Eligibility and categories
Authors eligible to apply must be residents of the five districts that make up the Kalyana Karnataka area: Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal and Bidar. The society specifically welcomes first print editions in the following categories: poetry collections, short story collections, novels, women’s writing and composite works that span multiple genres.
Submissions must consist of three copies of the work and should reach the society by 20 January 2026. Entries can be delivered in person or sent by post to the office of the society at G2, V. V. Hostel Complex, Sedam Road, Kalaburagi – 585105, addressed to the president of the Kannada Nadu Writers and Readers Cooperative Society.
The organisers set out a clear list of exclusions. Books published by Kannada Nadu Publications, titles by members of the society’s governing board, works that have won awards in the past three years, edited anthologies and PhD theses will not be considered for the prizes.
Each award carries a cash prize of Rs 5,000 and a certificate. For 2024, the society will select winners in the categories of best short story collection, best poetry collection, best novel, best work in women’s literature and the best work in the composite category.
Organisers stressed that the jury’s decision will be final and that there will be no correspondence or opportunity for appeal regarding the awards. They also noted that submitted books will not be returned to authors.
The call for submissions aims to recognise and encourage literary talent within the Kalyana Karnataka region and to provide a platform for new voices whose first editions were published in 2024. By restricting entries to first editions and to authors from the specified districts, the awards seek to spotlight emerging regional writers while maintaining clear fairness criteria through the exclusions noted above.
Authors and publishers seeking further information or wishing to confirm submission details may contact the organisers directly. The press notice lists the following contacts: Apparao Akkone at 9448570985, Swamirao Kulkarni at 9448333539 and Dr Sharannabasappa Vaddanakeri at 9741169055.
Writers intending to apply should prepare their packages early to ensure timely arrival before the 20 January 2026 deadline and should follow the submission rules to avoid disqualification under the stated exclusions.
Key Takeaways:
- Kannada Nadu awards invite first-edition books by authors from Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal and Bidar districts.
- Eligible categories include poetry, short stories, novels, women’s writing and composite works; prizes are Rs 5,000 and a certificate.
- Exclusions: Kannada Nadu publications, board members’ books, recent winners, edited volumes and PhD theses; entries must submit three copies by 20 January 2026.
- Jury decisions are final; contact details provided for queries.
