The renowned literary theorist and feminist critic honored for her groundbreaking interdisciplinary research
Indian scholar Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak has been awarded the 2025 Holberg Prize for her exceptional contributions to comparative literature, translation, postcolonial studies, political philosophy, and feminist theory, reported gujaratsamachar.com.
A Landmark Achievement in the Humanities
The Holberg Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious awards in humanities, social sciences, law, and theology, has named Spivak as its 2025 Laureate. She will receive a NOK 6,000,000 (approx. €515,000 or ₹4.87 crore) prize during a ceremony at the University of Bergen, Norway, on June 5, conferred by H.R.H Crown Prince Haakon of Norway.
Championing the Voices of the Marginalized
Spivak, a University Professor in the Humanities at Columbia University, has shaped literary criticism and philosophy since the 1970s. Her work focuses on subaltern studies, advocating for marginalized groups whose voices remain unheard in mainstream historical narratives.
For the past 40 years, she has worked extensively to combat illiteracy among Dalits and tribal communities in India, running self-subsidized elementary schools in rural areas.
Her activism extends beyond India, addressing poverty, development, and linguistic challenges in Africa
Who is Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak?
Born in colonial India in 1942, Spivak pursued her PhD at Cornell University (1967) after studying at the University of Calcutta. She has been a faculty member at Columbia University since 2007, playing a key role in founding its Institute for Comparative Literature and Society.
Over her career, she has taught at more than 20 institutions worldwide, authored nine books, and translated works into over 20 languages. Her major accolades include:
- Padma Bhushan (2013)
- Kyoto Prize in Art and Philosophy (2012)
- Modern Language Association Lifetime Scholarly Achievement Award (2018)
- 15 honorary doctorates from global universities
Recognition from West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee congratulated Spivak, calling her “an inspiration” and acknowledging her dedication to literary theory, philosophy, and voluntary service in West Bengal.
“She makes us proud with this highest honor. Her efforts in translating Bengali classics into English inspire us all,” Banerjee stated.
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