Amitav Ghosh, the acclaimed author of renowned novels such as “The Shadow Lines” and “The Glass Palace”, recently took to social media to share his heartfelt gratitude after being honoured with a doctorate from one of the oldest universities in Italy.
Amitav expressed gratitude to Professor Roberto di Pietra for his hospitality and Professor Elena Spandri for her superb Laudatio.
It was Ghosh’s sixth doctorate. As he tells his audience, “It was very special because it coincided with the Palio, an event I have long been obsessed with. The final race was rained out the last two days, but all the indications are that it will be completed today. Can’t wait.”
A few months ago, in March, Amitav was also awarded the Erasmus Prize 2024 for his work in highlighting the climate crisis through literature.
Ghosh’s literary works, such as “The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable,” skillfully blend fiction with urgent environmental concerns, prompting readers to face the harsh truths of ecological decline.
The Erasmus Prize is typically awarded to individuals or institutions that have made a significant cultural, social, or academic impact in Europe and beyond. This award serves as evidence of Ghosh’s exceptional talent for combining storytelling with activism.
Amitav Ghosh As A Writer
Amitav Ghosh is an Indian author known for his diverse literary career that explores themes ranging from history to environmental issues. Born in Calcutta in 1956, he has garnered international acclaim for his thought-provoking works.
| Notable Works | Publication Years |
| The Circle of Reason | 1986 |
| The Shadow Lines | 1988 |
| The Calcutta Chromosome | 1995 |
| The Glass Palace | 2000 |
| Sea of Poppies | 2008 |
| River of Smoke | 2011 |
| Flood of Fire | 2015 |
| The Great Derangement | 2016 |
Awards
Sahitya Akademi Award for “The Shadow Lines” (1989)
Arthur C. Clarke Award for “The Calcutta Chromosome” (1997)
Padma Shri Award (2007)
Dan David Prize (2010)
