Often, regional language submissions and raw manuscripts go unnoticed by the big publishing houses. Authors often find a supportive environment in regional language independent publishers, as they also publish works on niche topics that might get rejected by larger publishing houses. This culture fosters a range of diverse and unique literary works. The specificity of the language also helps target the right audience for the book. The Bombay Circle Press has curated a list of a few independent regional language publishers amongst the many.
DeeCee Books – Malayalam
Founded in 1974, by Dominic Chacko Kizhakemuri, DC Books, headquartered in Kottayam, Kerala, is an extension of a historical literary continuum stretching back in time to pre-independence India. It houses a catalogue that contains titles from classical and contemporary Malayalam literature, translations of the work of Booker and Nobel Prize winning authors from the world over, a delightful range of children’s literature and an eclectic mix of miscellaneous genres. DC Books is among the top ten publishing houses and book retailers in India, publishing more than 1500 titles annually. Since its inception, the company has also published a range of dictionaries in Malayalam, considered the definitive points of linguistic reference used by professional linguists and translators.
DC Books has emerged from its historical past that contributed immeasurably to the renaissance of Malayalam literature, to cater to the literary preferences of a new generation of readers united in their love of books and the pleasures of reading.
Atmajaa Publishers – Bengali
Atmajaa Publishers, stands as one of Kolkata’s premier publishing houses. Founded with a passion for literature and a commitment to excellence, it has grown over the years to become a trusted name in the world of publishing. With a diverse catalog of over 400+ titles, our publishing house has made a significant impact on the literary landscape, not just in Kolkata, but across India and abroad.
Atmajaa Publishers was established by Anita Chatterjee & Arunava Chatterjee, both believing in the transformative power of books. Over the years, they have published works across a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, academic works, and children’s literature. Whether it’s a gripping novel, a thought-provoking essay collection, or a beautifully constructed poetry book, their titles are united by a commitment to quality and a deep respect for the craft of writing.
Dey’s Publishing – Bengali
Established in 1976, Dey’s Publishing started as a small publishing house with a passion for delivering quality Bengali literature to the masses. Over the years, they’ve grown significantly, becoming a name synonymous with trust, quality, and literary excellence. Their catalog features works by top-of-the-line Bengali authors, covering a diverse range of genres, from fiction and poetry to essays and academic works. Whether it’s classics or contemporary titles, Dey’s Publishing strives to provide readers with the best that Bengali literature has to offer.
Ektara Trust – Hindi
Ektara Trust is Takshila’s Centre for Children’s Literature and Art that endeavours to enrich the body of Hindi literature for children. Ektra invites readers to discover a whole new world of stories. They create quality literary and illustrated content so that we can share stories that transcend time and generations.
Like Amaltas makes flowers, ants make way, waters make water – Ektara makes books. At Ektara, you will find a hive of books in the making. A bunch of books seasoned with the different language dreams and fragrant with sweat. Ektara houses an illustrators’ Riyaaz. A childhood home. Children are its natural owners. Sometimes adults also revisit it. They decorate this house with story recesses and roofs of poetry.
Independent regional language publishers are the reasons readership for these languages persists. These publishers serve as the few harbingers of literary evolution in the country’s ancient languages, and promote the existence of this literature to a newer audience. For more details about authors, books, translations and more, follow the The Bombay Circle Press Bulletin.