Cherry Book Awards has proudly announced the Phase 2 winners of the prestigious Sahitya Ratna Samman Award 2026, recognising authors whose remarkable contributions have enriched contemporary literature. Celebrating excellence across fiction, poetry, memoirs, and innovative writing, the award continues its mission of honouring voices that inspire readers and elevate the literary landscape.
Following the overwhelming response received for Phase 1, the second phase brings together another distinguished group of writers from India, the United States of America, and Japan, reflecting the truly global spirit of literature.
Readers can also explore the Phase 1 winners through the dedicated feature available on Republic News India.
Krishnaveni Natarajan
Category: Excellence in Poetry
City: Tirunelveli
Acclaimed poet Krishnaveni Natarajan has been honoured with the Sahitya Ratna Samman Award 2026 in the Excellence in Poetry category. Her expressive verses, emotional depth, and graceful command over language continue to resonate with poetry lovers, making her a deserving recipient of this recognition.
Roopa Modha
Category: Innovative Writer
Country: United States of America
Based in the United States, Roopa Modha has been recognised as an Innovative Writer for her refreshing storytelling style and original literary voice. Her work Navarasa: The Colors of Life – A Poetry Collection with Rasa Theory Analysis demonstrates creativity, thoughtful expression, and a unique perspective that distinguishes her in contemporary literature.
Madhulika Syal
Category: Innovative Writer
City: Panchkula
Madhulika Syal receives the Innovative Writer honour for her imaginative approach to writing and meaningful literary contributions including her recent work Unbroken Soul: A Phoenix Rising From Shadows Into Eternal Love. Her ability to present engaging ideas with clarity and originality reflects the evolving nature of modern Indian literature.
Ssamridhi Gulati
Category: Best Fiction Author
City: Jammu
Ssamridhi Gulati has been selected as Best Fiction Author for crafting compelling narratives that engage readers through memorable characters and emotionally rich storytelling. Her work The Shadow Weavers reflects both literary imagination and narrative excellence.
Dr. Pomita Ghoshal
Category: Best Non-fiction Author (Memoir)
City: Jaipur
Dr. Pomita Ghoshal has been honoured in the Best Non-fiction Author (Memoir) category for her inspiring memoir When I Became My Father’s Mother: A Daughter’s Journey Through Dementia, Love, and Letting Go that captures authentic life experiences with honesty, wisdom, and emotional depth. Her work stands as a meaningful contribution to contemporary non-fiction literature.
Sayaka Murata
Category: Best Fiction Author
Country: Japan
Internationally acclaimed author Sayaka Murata has been recognised as Best Fiction Author for her exceptional contribution to contemporary fiction. Her distinctive storytelling, bold themes, and remarkable literary craftsmanship have earned worldwide admiration, making her an outstanding recipient of this honour. Japan continues to inspire the world with its timeless culture and literary brilliance.
Sredhanea Ramakrishnan
Category: Best Fiction Author
City: Chandigarh
Sredhanea Ramakrishnan has been honoured as Best Fiction Author for her acclaimed historical fiction work, The Cord. Her compelling storytelling, strong historical foundation, and emotionally engaging narrative have established her as one of the most promising contemporary fiction writers. Chandigarh stands as a perfect blend of beauty, order, and modern living.
About Cherry Book Awards
Cherry Book Awards is an international literary recognition platform dedicated to celebrating authors, poets, educators, and literary professionals from across the globe. Through initiatives such as the Sahitya Ratna Samman Award, The Author’s Voice, and other prestigious recognitions, the organisation provides deserving writers with credible recognition, editorial visibility, and a platform to showcase their literary achievements to a wider audience.
With the announcement of the Sahitya Ratna Samman Award 2026 Phase 2 winners, Cherry Book Awards once again reaffirms its commitment to recognising literary excellence beyond commercial success and celebrating authors whose words continue to inspire readers around the world.