Deccan Herald,12 April 2010
Rana Dasgupta wins Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book
The spirit of India, myths, the lives of common people and tales of diverse cultures triumphed in the world of Commonwealth literature on Monday, when Delhi-based writer Rana Dasgupta won the Commonwealth Writer’s prize for the best book, ‘Solo’.
“Solo” is the tale of a Bulgarian centenarian, Ulrich a recluse who embarks on an epic armchair journey through a century of violent politics, forbidden music, lost love and failed chemistry.
Glenda Guest of Australia won the prize for the best first book “Siddon Rock”, known for its rich cast of characters and a wonderful blend of everyday with fantasy. The prizes were given away by Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor at a ceremony in the capital’s India International Centre. Addressing the ceremony, Tharoor said he was delighted that Delhi played host to the Commonwealth awards this year.