Godrej DEI Lab and Westland Books Launch ‘Queer Directions’, an LGBTQIA+ Publishing Imprint

Godrej DEI Lab, the diversity and inclusion initiative of the Godrej Industries Group and Westland Books, announced the launch of “Queer Directions” (QD) – a new publishing imprint dedicated to amplifying LGBTQIA+ voices across genres spanning non-fiction, poetry, and eventually, fiction. With plans to launch six compelling titles this year, the collaboration signals a deep commitment to inclusive storytelling and representation. 

At its core, Queer Directions will celebrate queer expression, identity, and lived experiences. From insightful memoirs to imaginative narratives for younger readers, Queer Directions aims to build an ever-expanding bridge between queer creators and readers everywhere.

Parmesh Shahani, Head of Godrej DEI Lab and author of Queeristan, will serve as Series Editor for Queer Directions. 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 steadily built a credible LGBTQIA+ list over the years – from Queeristan to recent acclaimed fiction by Unmana and Santanu Bhattacharya – now takes a bold step forward with this focused publishing programme.

“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.”

With the launch of Queer Directions, the Godrej Industries Group reaffirms its continued investment in social equity and inclusion. The imprint, as a creative endeavour, will be a testament to the power of partnerships in shaping inclusive narratives and imagining progress for all.