Yogesh Pandey, a young author and former student of Fergusson College, Pune, has been shortlisted for the IGF Archer Amish Award for Storytellers at IGF London 2025. His science fiction novel The Kill Switch, released in 2024, is one of only three Indian books chosen for this prestigious global honour. The winner will be announced on June 18.
Yogesh, who studied Physics, had no formal training in writing. He wrote and published his first book while still in college, completely on his own. While working a full-time job at Deloitte USI, he kept writing and eventually moved from self-publishing to working with a professional publisher.
The Kill Switch tells a futuristic story that has become popular among young readers in India. Yogesh’s success shows that determination and passion can lead to great achievements, even without formal training or industry connections.
“I didn’t know where to begin, but I knew I had stories to tell,” he said. “Writing helped me understand who I am and what I want to share with the world.”
Now heading to London to represent India, Yogesh’s journey is motivating many young writers from small towns to follow their dreams and believe in their talent.
