About Spin Your Science (SYS)
Spin Your Science (SYS) is the science fiction writing competition of the India Science Festival, designed to ignite the imaginations of students, researchers, and professionals. In a previous SYS webinar, Professor Sami Ahmed Khan, a renowned sci-fi author, emphasized that science fiction serves as a narrative mirror to our society. In this edition of the competition, we invite all science enthusiasts to explore pressing contemporary themes, intertwine their unique scientific insights, and craft compelling stories that resonate across diverse audiences. Let your creativity soar and contribute to a genre that not only entertains but also inspires and unites people from all walks of life.
Spin Your Science 2025 – 2026
The competition is open to all. There are no restrictions on age, background, education, or nationality. Participants must have an account in any Indian bank account to enter.
Word Limit:
- Stories: Under 1500 words
- Scientific poetry: Under 400 words
Submissions should be in English. If you are submitting an entry written in a regional language, please share its English Translation for our reference. The deadline for submission is 20th September 2025.
Deadline: 31st August 2025
New Deadline: 20th September 2025
Jury Members
Arati Kadav
Writer & Filmmaker
Sami Ahmad Khan
Writer, Academician and Documentary Producer
Samuel Peralta
Physicist, Author and Founder of Lunar Codex
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is eligible to participate?
The competition is open to all sci-fi enthusiasts! There are no restrictions on age, background, education, or nationality. Participants must have an Indian bank account to enter.
Q. I am not currently in India / My nationality isn’t Indian. Am I eligible to participate?
Yes, we welcome applications from all over the world! However, you need access to an Indian bank account to participate.
Q. Is there an age limit for participating?
No, there is no age limit.
Q. Is there a theme for the competition?
No, you can write about anything within the realm of science fiction. Stories should be under 1500 words and scientific poetry under 400 words. If your work involves a current science or tech concept, please ensure it is accurately represented.
Q. How do I submit my entry?
Submit your story or poem in both Word and PDF formats with the following specifications:
– Font: Arial
– Size: Title – 12, Body – 10
– Margins: 2.5 cm
– Spacing: 1.0
Please submit your entry through this form. The deadline for submission is 20 September 2025.
Q. Will FAST India cover my expenses to visit ISF 2026 if I win?
No, the India Science Festival is open to all and free to attend. While we welcome your participation, FAST India will not cover travel expenses. If you are among the top 20 and unable to attend the festival, FAST India will share your printed publication with you.
Q. Can I write in a language other than English?
While we primarily accept entries in English, you are encouraged to submit your work in regional languages. If you do so, please include an English translation.
Q. Can I participate along with a friend?
Yes, individuals as well as teams of up to two people can participate.