Indian writer-journalist Ashutosh Bhardwaj was awarded the UNESCO-Prague City of Literature residency located at Kafka House, the birthplace of the novelist. In an exclusive conversation with Mid-day, he shares, "Soon after my arrival, I learnt about “Kafka’s spirit” which is said to pervade the place and possesses the desk of resident writers like myself. I came to second this sentiment within a week"

A bust of Kafka and a plaque were added to the new building. Across the street, there is a small exhibition that celebrates the writer. Kafka (1883-1924) was a Prague-born German-speaking Jewish writer whose novels express the alienation of 20th century

The rebuilt Kafka House bears a similarity to the original structure. The Municipal Library of Prague ensures that the space is given the finest possible care. Its renovated interiors carry a sublime elegance

A photo of the original Kafka House is on display at the Kafka Museum. The Prague of 2023 is not the 19th century Prague that had made an inglorious list of outsiders, including its famous German-speaking Jew author. The city now embraces thinkers from other continents

Austrian novelist, poet, dramatist and biographer of Kafka, Max Brod published his works despite the reticent author friend telling him to burn his novels right before his death. Pic/Getty Images