Acclaimed author Dr. Shalini Mullick was announced as the first-ever recipient of the IGF Archer Amish Award for Storytellers, at a special ceremony on the opening day of India Global Forum (IGF) London 2025, held at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre.

Her novel, The Way Home, was recognised for its deeply moving exploration of grief, identity, and healing. The story follows three millennials who seek refuge in Goa while battling personal struggles, ultimately finding strength in friendship and self-discovery. Dr. Mullick received a cash prize of \$25,000, placing the award among the world’s most prestigious prizes for fiction.

Presenting the award, Rt Hon Lisa Nandy, UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, emphasised its wider significance:

“At a time when the world feels increasingly divided, the connections we build through stories are more vital than ever. Leaders like Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Keir Starmer are showing the way in transcending global divisions.”

The award, launched at IGF London 2024, celebrates contemporary Indian fiction that captures the richness and complexity of modern India. It was established in partnership with literary giants Jeffrey Archer and Amish Tripathi, in collaboration with The House of Abhinandan Lodha.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lord Jeffrey Archer said:

“Storytellers don’t often win awards—but they are who the world reads. And that is why this award matters.”

Amish Tripathi added:

“The job of a storyteller is to grab attention and not let go. Stories are how we remember, how we connect, and how we move forward.”

The other finalists for the 2025 award were:

• Navapashanam – The Quest for the Nine Magical Poisons by Nitya Neelakanthan
• The Kill Switch by Yogesh Pandey

Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman of IGF, said the award is part of a larger vision:

“We believe in the power of ideas, and every great idea begins with a story. This award shines a global light on Indian narratives that need to be heard.”

Abhinandan Lodha, Founder of The House of Abhinandan Lodha, echoed this sentiment:

“India’s richness lies not only in land or infrastructure — but in stories, in heritage, in legacy. We’re proud to support this celebration of storytelling.”

The announcement was a key highlight of IGF London 2025, a landmark edition featuring over 100 speakers and 1,000 participants. Marking a decade since PM Modi’s historic 2015 visit to the UK, this year’s IGF also celebrates the conclusion of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement — positioning the forum as a launchpad for the next chapter of bilateral collaboration.