Salma

Salma is the pen name of Rajathi, is one of the most significant and courageous voices of contemporary Tamil literature. A poet, novelist and activist, she has forged a unique path by transforming the cloistered reality of her life into powerful art that has universal appeal and challenges the deeply entrenched social and patriarchal norms, particularly within the Tamil Muslim community.

Salma's literary career is marked by several seminal works that have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following. She is the author of several poetry collections such as Oru Maalaiyum Innoru Maalaiyum (One Evening and Another Evening) and Pachchai Devathai (Green Angel); short story collections Saabam, Balyam and Curse; and novels Irandaam Jaamangalin Kadhai (The Dark Hours of the Night) (2025) and Manamiyangal (Women Dreaming) (2020). Adaikkum Thazh (The Binding) is her third novel.

In 2001, Salma was elected as the Panchayat President of Ponnampatti in the Tiruchirappalli district. She was later appointed as the Chairperson of the Tamil Nadu Social Welfare Board (2006–2011) and was instrumental in launching several welfare schemes, including landmark initiatives for the transgender community. An active member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), she has served in various party roles, including Deputy Secretary of the Women’s Wing. In 2025, Salma was nominated as a Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha.