Salman Rushdie

Rushdie gained significant acclaim with his second novel, "Midnight's Children," which won the Booker Prize in 1981 and was later celebrated as the best novel among all winners on the prize's 25th and 40th anniversaries. His prominence extends beyond literature due to the fatwa issued against him in 1989 following the publication of "The Satanic Verses," which brought international attention to issues of free speech and religious sensitivity.

Recently, Rushdie has been in the news for his media appearances and personal revelations. He participated in an interview for the "Desert Island Discs" program, sharing insights into his life and influences. Additionally, he has made headlines for disclosing the unique origin of an iconic song by his close friend, the late musician Lou Reed, revealing it was originally intended for a musical.

In a separate discussion, Rushdie reflected on the impact of "Midnight's Children," noting how it helped pave the way for Indian writers in English to find their voice. These recent engagements highlight his ongoing influence in both literary and cultural circles, connecting his past works to contemporary conversations.