Upamanyu Chatterjee’s Lorenzo Searches for the Meaning of Life, published by Speaking Tiger Books, has been named the winner of the 2024 JCB Prize for Literature. Chatterjee was awarded the ₹25-lakh prize during a ceremony at the JCB India Headquarters in Ballabhgarh. The iconic trophy, a sculpture titled Mirror Melting by Delhi-based artist duo Thukral and Tagra, was also presented to the author.
The award was handed over by Deepak Shetty, CEO and Managing Director of JCB India, on behalf of Lord Bamford, Chairman of JCB. Commenting on the occasion, Shetty said, “The JCB Prize for Literature was envisioned by Lord Bamford to celebrate the essence of Indian literature. This year, as always, we received an extraordinary range of works. Congratulations to Upamanyu Chatterjee and his remarkable novel on behalf of the entire JCB family.”
Highlighting the richness of Indian literature, Shetty added, “Contemporary Indian writing in regional languages has so much to offer. Publishers play a vital role in ensuring these stories are made accessible through quality translations, opening up new experiences for readers across generations.”
The jury, which included renowned literary voices, praised Chatterjee’s work for its depth and brilliance. Jury member Jerry Pinto remarked, “Lorenzo Searches for the Meaning of Life is a powerful exploration of the soul, intertwining themes of faith and reason. It is a masterpiece to be revisited for its bold vision and execution.” Deepthi Sashidharan added, “With its vast scope and detailed research, the book captivates with its portrayal of an immigrant’s search for faith, weaving timelines across continents with a unique reverse narrative style.”
Mita Kapur, the Literary Director of the JCB Prize, reflected on the journey of the award, saying, “The JCB Prize for Literature continues to celebrate the voices that shape Indian storytelling. This platform amplifies narratives that deeply resonate with our times, reaffirming the importance of artistry and dedication in literature.” The recognition of Lorenzo Searches for the Meaning of Life marks another milestone in the ongoing celebration of Indian literary excellence.
