Words’ Worth

When Mahasweta Devi was called on to the stage to receive the Landmark Literature Live! Lifetime Achievement Award at the NCPA on Sunday,it made for a poignant moment. Introduced by Sir Mark Tully as a remarkable woman who has relentlessly and selflessly worked for the tribals and rural India,the 85-year-old author,poet and activist received a standing ovation from the audience. As she was presented a silver plaque and a cash award of Rs 5 lakh,she thanked her hosts and said a few words about her journey of 30 years,adding,“I have jumped where others’ feet would fail.” She also said that she will utilise the prize money for the benefit of the people she has worked with all her life.