Are you an literary enthusiastic who love writing and reading. Look no further, I have consolidated a list of top 10 literary magazines in India. Some of the magazins like Lekh Magazine, accept submissions from around the world. Check out the submission guidelines.
You must keep in mind that before sending any script or article draft, I urge to check the submission guidelines of the each publication. Let’s go!
Top 10 Literary Magazines in India: Best Online & Print Publications to Submit Your Work
For budding writers and established authors alike, literary magazines offer a platform to publish their work, connect with like-minded creators, and reach new audiences. India has a rich selection of online and print literary magazines, each with its own unique vision, genre focus, and submission guidelines. Here are the top 10 literary magazines in India that aspiring writers should consider, including details on their format, types of work they accept, and how to submit.
Top 10 Literary Magazines in India
| Rank | Magazine | Format | Types of Work Published | Submission Guidelines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LEKH Magazine | Online | Essays, Poetry, Opinions, etc | Open to all; online submissions |
| 2 | The Bombay Review | Print/Online | Fiction, Poetry, Articles | Accepts submissions online |
| 3 | Out of Print | Online | Short Fiction | Quarterly submissions accepted |
| 4 | The Indian Quarterly | Essays, Fiction, Photo Essays | Encourages themed submissions | |
| 5 | Helter Skelter | Online | Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry | Online submissions with rolling deadlines |
| 6 | Vayavya | Online | Poetry, Essays | Focus on contemporary voices; online submissions |
| 7 | Muse India | Online | Fiction, Non-Fiction, Criticism | Submission deadlines based on issue theme |
| 8 | Spark | Online | Poetry, Fiction, Creative Non-Fiction | Monthly themes; online submissions |
| 9 | Sahitya Akademi | Poetry, Prose, Research | Submission guidelines available through Sahitya Akademi site | |
| 10 | Indian Literature | Fiction, Poetry, Reviews | Biannual; submissions by post |
Top 10 Literary Magazines in India: Best Online & Print Publications to Submit Your Work
1. LEKH Magazine
LEKH Magazine is at the forefront of India’s literary scene, with a mission to celebrate diverse voices through online platforms. Specializing in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, LEKH provides a space for creative expression that is accessible to all writers. Known for its inclusive approach, LEKH Magazine invites submissions from established authors and emerging voices alike. Submissions are accepted online, making it convenient for writers across India.
2. The Bombay Review
The Bombay Review, a literary magazine known internationally, is available in both print and online formats. It publishes short fiction, poetry, and critical essays and provides a platform for writers in both India and abroad. The Bombay Review is recognized for nurturing young talent and has a rigorous submission process to maintain quality content. Writers can submit their work online, making it easy to contribute.
3. Out of Print
Out of Print is an online-only literary magazine that focuses exclusively on short fiction. Published quarterly, this platform is dedicated to discovering bold, innovative voices in Indian literature. Out of Print encourages submissions from authors with unique perspectives, making it a great choice for writers specializing in short fiction.
4. The Indian Quarterly
The Indian Quarterly offers a beautiful blend of literature and visual arts, emphasizing long-form writing and photography. Available in print, it features essays, fiction, and photo essays that reflect on Indian culture, identity, and history. It’s an ideal platform for authors who are passionate about storytelling in traditional formats.
5. Helter Skelter
Helter Skelter is an online magazine that publishes fiction, poetry, and non-fiction pieces centered around Indian art and culture. It has built a reputation for providing a platform for fresh voices in contemporary writing. Helter Skelter accepts rolling submissions, allowing writers flexibility in when they can submit.
6. Vayavya
Focused on poetry and essays, Vayavya is an online literary journal that spotlights contemporary Indian literature. Its minimalist format is ideal for readers looking for thought-provoking poetry and prose. Vayavya is known for its commitment to modern Indian voices and encourages contributions from emerging and established writers alike.
7. Muse India
Muse India is a digital publication dedicated to Indian writing in English. It features fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, and literary criticism. Muse India’s thematic approach allows for varied content, making each issue unique. They accept online submissions, with deadlines that align with each issue’s theme.
8. Spark
Spark, an online monthly magazine, offers a thematic approach to literature, where each issue focuses on a unique theme. The magazine publishes fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction and welcomes submissions from writers looking to express themselves creatively. Spark’s format is perfect for writers who enjoy exploring new topics each month.
9. Sahitya Akademi
Sahitya Akademi publishes a variety of literary works, including poetry, prose, and research papers, through its printed magazine. As India’s National Academy of Letters, Sahitya Akademi offers a prestigious platform for Indian writers. Writers interested in contributing can find submission details on the Sahitya Akademi website.
10. Indian Literature
Published biannually by Sahitya Akademi, Indian Literature is one of the oldest literary magazines in the country. It publishes translated and original works, including fiction, poetry, and literary criticism. Aspiring contributors can submit their work by post, though the process is more traditional.
Submission Tips for Aspiring Writers
- Know Your Audience: Each magazine has its own editorial style and preferred genres. Before submitting, explore past issues to get a feel for their content.
- Follow Submission Guidelines: Editors often specify requirements for word count, format, and genre. Adhering to these guidelines improves your chances of getting published.
- Prepare Your Manuscript: Ensure that your work is polished and error-free. Editors look for well-crafted pieces that demonstrate a strong command of language.
- Submit to Multiple Magazines: Don’t limit yourself to just one magazine. Submitting to several publications can increase your visibility and enhance your writing portfolio.
A lot of Benefits writers get from writing to literary magazines
This article showcases the variety of literary magazines available in India, online and print. These mags provides a platform for an aspiring as well as experienced writers with essential submission tips.