In a strategic move to drive inclusive publishing, Godrej DEI Lab, the diversity and inclusion arm of Godrej Industries Group, has partnered with Westland Books to launch Queer Directions (QD), a dedicated LGBTQIA+ imprint. The imprint will release six titles this year, spanning non-fiction, poetry, and eventually fiction, marking a significant commitment to representation in Indian publishing.
Parmesh Shahani, Head of Godrej DEI Lab and author of Queeristan, has been appointed Series Editor. “This imprint stands as both an act of solidarity and a space to nurture fresh, authentic voices from within LGBTQIA+ communities,” Shahani said.
Westland, with a growing LGBTQIA+ list, sees Queer Directions as a long-envisioned project. “We couldn’t have found better partners than Godrej DEI Lab and Parmesh to shape this inclusive platform,” said Karthika V.K., Publisher, Westland Books.
In Guwahati, a rising hub for progressive readership, independent bookstores and queer advocacy groups have welcomed the launch. Industry insiders say QD titles could see promising traction in the Northeast, where demand for diverse narratives is growing, particularly among younger, urban audiences. The initiative reinforces Godrej’s continued investment in social equity and inclusive growth across its business ecosystem.
