Mumbai, May 14, 2025: Godrej DEI Lab, the diversity and inclusion initiative of the Godrej Industries Group, in collaboration with Westland Books, has launched a new publishing imprint titled Queer Directions (QD). The imprint is dedicated to showcasing LGBTQIA+ voices through a range of genres, including non-fiction, poetry, and, eventually, fiction.
As part of the initiative, Queer Directions will publish six titles this year, aiming to highlight queer expression, identity, and lived experiences. The imprint seeks to connect queer creators with a broad spectrum of readers, including both LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies.
Parmesh Shahani, Head of Godrej DEI Lab and author of Queeristan, will serve as Series Editor for the imprint. Speaking about the initiative, Shahani said, “The idea is to build a bridge, not a border. At a time when queer rights are being challenged across the world, this imprint stands as both an act of solidarity and a space to nurture fresh, authentic voices from within the LGBTQIA+ communities. It will showcase the rich diversity of queer lives to straight allies and non-queer readers.”
Westland Books, which has previously published several acclaimed LGBTQIA+ titles, has expanded its commitment to the space through this focused imprint.
“It has been a long-cherished hope that someday we would be able to launch a thoughtful, inclusive and truly intersectional imprint that is focused on discovering and nurturing new voices in the LGBTQIA+ space. Queer Directions is that,” said Karthika V.K., Publisher at Westland Books. “And we couldn't have found more supportive and engaged partners than Godrej DEI Lab and series editor Parmesh Shahani to help shape and enhance the impact of all that we publish in QD.”
Through Queer Directions, the Godrej Industries Group continues its efforts toward promoting social equity and inclusion. The initiative highlights the potential of partnerships in fostering diverse narratives and expanding the space for inclusive storytelling.
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