Since 2017, Alekhya has drawn writers seeking extended stays, away from the structured workshops. In a quiet expansion of that summon, we are elated to announce the inaugural Jagtawali Sood Emerging Writers’ Residency.

Jagtawali Sood (1926–2005) was an eminent Sanskrit and Hindi scholar from Hoshiarpur, Punjab. In a life threaded with quiet defiance, she published short stories, poems and plays that circled women, with their resilience etched in the grain of ordinary hours. In 1951, she founded Vidya Mandir School, a bastion of value-based learning that marks its 75th year this May. This residency arrives as part of that milestone, a dedication carved from her enduring shadow.

We seek four writers this summer, from June 1-30, 2026. Whether you are finishing a commission, drafting your first book, or simply need quiet space, this residency offers protected writing time, a small community for sharing ideas, and an optional weekly session with a mentor.

For details and application, please email us at alekhyaretreat [at] gmail.com.