Nilba Khandekar
Nilba A. Khandekar | |
|---|---|
| Born | |
| Occupation | Poet, playwright |
| Language | Konkani |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Years active | 1974–present |
| Employer | Indian Navy (retired) |
| Notable works | The Words (poetry collection) |
| Notable awards | Sahitya Akademi Award (2019) |
Nilba A. Khandekar is an Indian poet and playwright from Goa who writes in the Konkani language. In 2019, he was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award, India's highest literary honour, for his poetry collection titled The Words.[1][2]
Early life and career
Khandekar is based in Navelim, Goa. He served as an upper-division clerk in the defense department of the Indian Navy at Vasco, retiring in March 2019 after 36 years of service. Following his retirement, he dedicated himself to full-time reading and writing.[1]
He has been active in the literary field for over 45 years, during which he has published seven books.4 His first book, Vedh, was released in 1992. In 2016, he published an anthology of plays titled The Peace before Storm.[1]
Literary style and themes
Khandekar's poetry is known for addressing social issues, injustices, and discrimination. His work often highlights atrocities, the plight of victims, and human exploitation of natural resources. He has stated that his writing aims to raise a voice against societal ignorance and delayed justice.[1][2]
His award-winning collection, The Words, includes notable poems such as Unknown Sky, a poem centered on nature and the exploitation of its resources, and Words, the titular poem which contrasts traditional literary heritage with contemporary socio-political situations.[1]
Awards and recognition
- Sahitya Akademi Award (2019): Awarded for his seventh book, The Words. The prize included a cash purse of ₹1 lakh, an engraved copper plaque, and a shawl.[3][1]
- Kala Academy Award (2013): Conferred for his work Dandkaranya.[2]
- Goa Konkani Akademi Award (2009): Awarded for literature and language service.[2]
- Konkani Bhasha Mandal Awards: Received for his books Suryawanshi (2000) and Agni (2003).[2]
References
- ^ a b c d e f Sayed, Nida (2019-12-19). "Konkani poet Nilba Khandekar wins Sahitya Akademi award". The Times of India. Retrieved 2025-12-31.
- ^ a b c d e "Nilba Khandekar bags Sahitya Academy Award for 'The Words'". Goa 365. 2019-12-18. Retrieved 2025-12-31.
- ^ Nath, Damini (18 December 2019). "Sahitya Akademi's 2019 awards includes non-fiction by Shashi Tharoor". The Hindu. Retrieved 26 February 2026.