Two Indian novels shortlisted for Asian Literary Prize

Hong Kong, Feb 16 (PTI) A satirical debut novel "SeriousMen" by Indian journalist Manu Joseph are among five booksshortlisted for this year''s Asian Literary Prize, with most ofthe works vying for the honours based on social upheavalunderway in China and Japan.

Another Indian novelist Tabish Khair with his work "TheThing About Thugs" which examines race and culturaldifferences is also in the fray.

The Indian authors would be in tough competition as theywould have to contend with a new novel from Japanese NobelLiterary Prize winner Kenzaburo and another Japanese workYoko Ogawa''s "Hotel Iris", ''South China Morning Post''reported.

The fifth contender in the shortlist announced lateyesterday is Chinese writer Bi Feiyu with his new novel "ThreeSisters".

The Asian Literary Prize, is the continent''s answer tothe famous ''Booker Prize'' and carries an award of USD 30,000in cash.

The winner would be chosen tomorrow.

The five novels were shortlisted from a selection of 10books.

India had as many as six entries with four othersincluding Upamanyu''s Chatterjee "Way To Go", Anosh Irani''s"Dahanu Road", Usha K R''s "Monkey-man" and "Tiger Hills" bySarita Mandanna failing to make it to the shortlist.