Indian journalists and non-fiction writers can apply for this paid fellowship to develop their manuscripts.
The HWR Khozem Merchant Non-Fiction Fellowship is seeking Indian writers of longform non-fiction. By giving writers support and mentoring, it aims to "institutionalize courage" and encourage writers to tell stories that move their society forward.
Selected fellows will attend a writing masterclass with Jerry Pinto between May 7-11, 2025, and a 21-day writing residency in the Himalayas in July. They will also receive financial support: INR50,000 plus INR20,000 travel fund.
Fellows are required to submit their finished manuscripts to Penguin Random House India by April 30, 2026. Penguin will look at the finished manuscripts and may offer a publishing deal.
Non-fiction writers in the following categories can apply: Personal Narratives; True Accounts; Lived Experiences; Biographies; Memoirs; History; Narrative Non-Fiction; and Investigative Journalism.
The fellowship is only open to Indian citizens and residents aged 25 and above, writing in English.
Apply by Feb. 10, 2025.