Sonny Mehta, the illustrious editor-in-chief of Alfred A. Knopf and chairman of the Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. From his early life to his remarkable career and lasting legacy, Mehta’s journey inspires and captivates.
Early Life of Sonny Mehta: A Global Upbringing
Born on November 9, 1942, in New Delhi, Sonny Mehta was the son of Amrik Singh Mehta, a distinguished officer in the Royal Indian Air Force, and Satinder Singh. His upbringing was cosmopolitan, marked by relocations across Prague, New York City, Nepal, and Geneva.
Educated at prestigious institutions like the Lawrence School, Sanawar, and Sevenoaks School in Kent, Mehta’s academic prowess earned him a scholarship to St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, where he immersed himself in History and English Literature while contributing to the renowned magazine, Granta.
Career Beginnings: A Trailblazer in Publishing
Mehta’s journey in publishing commenced in 1965 at Rupert Hart-Davis in London, laying the foundation for a career defined by innovation and literary excellence.
His tenure at Granada Publishing saw the birth of Paladin, where he championed groundbreaking works like Germaine Greer’s “The Female Eunuch” and introduced British audiences to American literary giants like Hunter Thompson.
Transitioning to Pan Books in 1972, Mehta revolutionized the literary landscape by nurturing talent and amplifying diverse voices. The launch of the Picador imprint under his stewardship heralded a golden era, showcasing works by literary luminaries such as Ian McEwan, Salman Rushdie, and Angela Carter.
Ascension to Knopf: A Transatlantic Voyage
In 1987, Mehta embarked on a transformative journey, crossing the Atlantic to assume leadership at Alfred A. Knopf, one of America’s most esteemed literary imprints.
Handpicked by Robert Gottlieb, his predecessor, Mehta’s visionary leadership ushered Knopf into a new era of literary prowess. Under his guidance, Knopf published Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and an array of literary masterpieces spanning continents and genres.
Mehta’s keen eye for talent and unwavering commitment to quality cemented Knopf’s reputation as a bastion of literary excellence.
A Legacy of Excellence: Honors and Accolades
Throughout his illustrious career, Sonny Mehta garnered numerous accolades, including Lifetime Achievement Awards in India, the UK, and the United States.
His contributions to the world of literature were celebrated with an honorary doctorate from Bard College and induction into Vanity Fair’s Hall of Fame for Best-Dressed Men. In 2015, Publishers Weekly recognized Mehta as their Person of the Year, a testament to his enduring impact on the publishing industry.
The Center for Fiction bestowed upon him the prestigious Maxwell E. Perkins Award in 2018, honoring his unparalleled dedication to nurturing literary talent.
Personal Reflections: A Life Well-Lived
Beyond his professional endeavors, Sonny Mehta cherished family and friendship. Married to Gita Patnaik in 1965, he found joy in the bonds of marriage and fatherhood. His legacy lives on through his son, Aditya Singh Mehta, and the countless authors whose lives he touched and careers he shaped.
Remembering Sonny Mehta: A Literary Luminary’s Legacy
On December 30, 2019, Sonny Mehta’s journey on this earthly realm came to an end, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations. As the literary world mourned his passing, tributes poured in from authors, colleagues, and admirers worldwide. Memorial events held in New York and London celebrated his life, underscoring the profound impact of his contributions.
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