Ramesh Karthik Naik, a 26-year-old writer hailing from the thanda of Vivek Nagar in Jakranpally mandal of Nizamabad, has been awarded the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar for Telugu. This remarkable achievement has brought great pride to his community and the region.
Roots in the Banjara Community
Born as Nunnavath Karthik, Naik belongs to the Lambada, also known as Banjara, community. His parents, Sevantha and Mojiram, are farmers, embodying the humble and resilient spirit of their heritage.
Literary Excellence with “Dhavlo”
Naik, writing under the pen name Ramesh Karthik Nayak, became the first tribal author from Telangana to receive the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar. He was honored for his short story collection “Dhavlo“ (Song of Lament, 2021), which explores the depths of human emotion and the Lambada way of life.
Debut in English Literature
Naik’s debut poetry collection in English, “Chakmak“ (Flintstone), was released at the Bengaluru Poetry Festival last year. This collection marked his entry into the broader literary world and showcased his versatility as a writer.
International Acclaim and Diverse Works
With four books to his name—three in Telugu and one in English—Naik’s literary journey is marked by vivid depictions of the Lambada lifestyle. His works have been featured in international journals and translated into several Indian languages, broadening their reach and impact.
Contributions to Telugu Literature
Naik has made significant contributions to Telugu literature. His compilation of short stories, “Kesula,” co-edited with Prof. Surya Dhananjay and published by the Telangana Sahitya Akademi in 2022, is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his community.
Recognition and Awards
Naik’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He received the Chilakamarthi Lakshmi Narasimha Puraskar in 2018 in Hyderabad and was awarded the Tribal Young Achiever Award for his contribution to tribal literature (Telugu) by the Telangana State Tribal Welfare Department on August 9, 2021.
Ramesh Karthik Naik’s journey from a small tribal community to receiving national and international recognition is an inspiring story of talent, perseverance, and cultural pride.