MANGALORE, October 30: Young author and orator Ms Reshel Bretny Fernandes has achieved yet another remarkable milestone as her book Surajya – Good Governance: The Wheel of Democracy has been honoured with the Tagore Kala Sahitya Academy Award 2026. The recognition celebrates her exceptional contribution to literature and her insightful exploration of democratic values and governance principles in modern India.
A tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and democratic ideals
Written on the occasion of honouring former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the book delves deeply into the concepts of good governance, transparency, and citizen participation in democracy. Fernandes draws inspiration from Vajpayee’s leadership ideals, analysing how ethical governance and public accountability are central to the progress of any nation.
Through Surajya, she presents a vision of democracy as a collaborative system where governance derives strength from people’s involvement. The work bridges the gap between political theory and citizen engagement, explaining how policies and values must align for a truly democratic society.
Recognition at national and international levels
The book has been widely appreciated at both national and international forums, earning praise from academics, policymakers, and literary critics alike. Fernandes’s lucid writing and grounded analysis have positioned Surajya as an essential read for students of political science, public policy, and civic leadership.
Her growing recognition as a young thought leader and orator reflects her commitment to promoting civic awareness and ethical leadership among the youth. Her recent participation in several international conferences and national seminars on democracy and governance has further elevated her prominence in intellectual circles.
Prestigious literary honour
The Tagore Kala Sahitya Academy Award, one of India’s most esteemed recognitions in the literary field, celebrates authors who have contributed meaningfully to literature, art, and national thought. By honouring Surajya, the Academy acknowledged Fernandes’s powerful articulation of democratic ideals in contemporary India.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Ms Fernandes said, “It is a humbling experience to have my work recognised at such a level. Surajya is my way of paying tribute to the values of integrity, inclusion, and good governance that our democracy stands upon. I dedicate this recognition to every citizen who believes in making governance people-centric and transparent.”
Inspiring the next generation
Reshel Bretny Fernandes continues to inspire young minds through her writings, speeches, and workshops focused on leadership, civic engagement, and ethical governance. Her journey as a young author exemplifies how intellectual curiosity, empathy, and social responsibility can together build a more informed and participatory democracy.
With Surajya earning national acclaim, Fernandes’s literary and intellectual contributions are poised to reach even wider audiences in the coming years.