Mumbai – Shobhna S. Kumar, a leading advocate for queer literature and LGBTQ+ rights in India, is proud to announce the launch of Queer Ink Swabhimaan, a pioneering imprint dedicated to mentoring and empowering aspiring queer writers. This new initiative builds on Shobhna’s decades-long commitment to amplifying queer voices in Indian literature.
Founded in 2010, Shobhna’s Queer Ink became one of the first online bookstores in India dedicated to LGBTQ+ books, filling a significant gap in a market that lacked resources on queer sexuality and gender identities. Over the years, the platform has gained recognition for its groundbreaking anthology, Out! Stories from the New Queer India, and its ongoing work in building a vibrant literary community.
With Queer Ink Swabhimaan, Shobhna aims to provide critical mentorship and support to emerging queer authors, helping them navigate the often-challenging terrain of publishing. This initiative includes professional guidance, financial sustainability strategies, and tailored workshops to foster creativity, storytelling, and success in the literary world.
“As queer voices continue to be silenced in mainstream literature, it is crucial to create spaces where these voices can thrive,” says Shobhna. “With Queer Ink Swabhimaan, I hope to empower the next generation of queer authors, ensuring their stories reach a wider audience and contribute to the rich diversity of Indian literature.”
In addition to her work with Queer Ink Swabhimaan, Shobhna has also authored the Queer Ink Writer’s Guidebook, a comprehensive resource for queer writers, offering practical advice on navigating the publishing industry and achieving literary success. Her work is part of a larger effort to build a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for queer authors in India.
Shobhna’s journey as an “accidental Indian” began in Fiji, before she settled in Mumbai, where she continues to make an impact in the publishing, film, and event management industries. Her passion for advocating for LGBTQ+ rights has propelled her into becoming a trusted voice in both literary and social circles, with a mission to build spaces for queer stories to flourish.
