The accolade highlights her legacy as a literary giant and fierce advocate for social and environmental justice. Profiled by author and journalist Naomi Klein, Roy’s inclusion on this prestigious list underscores her ability to bridge the realms of art and activism.
In a moving tribute, Klein described Roy as a “self-assigning war correspondent” who uses the tools of a novelist to shed light on India’s darkest injustices. Roy’s work has illuminated struggles that are often overlooked, from the aftermath of the Gujarat riots to the resistance in the Narmada Valley. “She helps us understand our moment in history,” wrote Klein, who also lauded Roy’s capacity to find poetry in protest and humour in hardship.
A Life Lived for Activism
Born on November 24, 1961, in Shillong, Meghalaya, Roy’s life has been shaped by her pursuit of justice. Trained as an architect, she transitioned to writing and activism, carving a unique path as a public intellectual. Her debut novel won global acclaim, but she chose to forgo conventional literary success to amplify voices from India’s marginalised communities.
Roy has been a vocal critic of fascism, globalisation, and environmental degradation. Her ground-level involvement in protests—be it against the Narmada River dam or the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)—has often placed her at odds with authorities. Her willingness to confront power has led to legal battles, including charges of sedition and contempt of court. Yet, she remains steadfast, her activism a beacon for those fighting for justice.
A Lifetime of Courage
In June 2024, Roy received the PEN Pinter Prize, awarded to writers who demonstrate “fierce intellectual determination.” Her acceptance of the award was quickly followed by reports that she could face charges under India’s stringent anti-terrorism laws—a stark reminder of the risks faced by outspoken writers.
Roy’s body of work, both fiction and essays, has earned her numerous accolades, including the Sydney Peace Prize and the Sahitya Akademi Award, which she famously declined. Her essays, including collections like The Algebra of Infinite Justice and Field Notes on Democracy, offer piercing critiques of state violence and social inequality rooted in deep empathy and unflinching honesty.
An Unstoppable Voice
As the only Indian on The Financial Times’ list, Arundhati Roy’s influence transcends borders. She is a writer who refuses to remain silent in the face of oppression, using her pen to expose truths and challenge complacency. Her story is a powerful reminder of literature’s role in shaping history and fighting for a better future.
