After 23 years when he worked as a cook in a State-run school, celebrated writer Manoranjan Byapari can now work amid books. Popularly known as the first Dalit writer from West Bengal, his autobiographical book Interrogating my Chandal Life (Itibritte Chandal Jiban) had won the The Hindu Award for Non-Fiction in 2018. A chance encounter with renowned writer Mahasweta Devi while plying a rickshaw sent Mr. Byapari on a new journey as a writer. Also read | Manoranjan Byapari: from fetters to lettersThe writer said he likes the idea of working amidst books, but does not think the job involves the responsibilities of a librarian. The library job will involve a long commute and the writer plans to rent a place not very far from work.

Source: The Hindu August 26, 2020 17:15 UTC