Premchand is one of the most celebrated writers in India. He is regarded as one of, if not the foremost, Hindi writers of the 20th century. He was born in 1880 in a small village in Uttar Pradesh and was then known by the name Dhanpat Rai Srivastava. He began writing in his early twenties and used the pen name Premchand, with which he pioneered modern Hindi Literature.
Thanks to the sense of realism and social commentary in his works, Premchand quickly rose to prominence as a Hindi writer. His short stories and novels talked about the struggle of the lower sections of society and the oppressed. He was well known for criticizing his time’s social and political system. By the time of Premchand’s death in 1936, he had written over 300 short stories, 14 novels, and multiple plays and essays. Considered one of the most significant figures in Hindi literature, his work still holds a profound impact and relevancy on society. Even today, his writings can be read and enjoyed by everyone.
Following are some of the best and must-read works of the gifted writer:
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Godaan (1936)
Considered his best work, Godaan revolves around the life of a poor peasant named Hori, who struggles to make a living for his family. This novel talks about poverty, exploitation, and social injustice in the best way possible.
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Gaban (1928)
Premchand delves into the crime thriller genre with Gaban. It is about a man framed for a crime he never committed. This novel plays with the themes of greed, deception, and revenge.
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Karmabhoomi (1932)
Karmabhoomi talks about the conflict between two distinct worlds – the world of traditions and modernity. Taking place during the Indian Independence movement, It tells the story of a group of poor peasants who fight for their rights against the landlords.
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Idgah (1936)
Idgah translates to the prayer ground. Idgah is the story of a Hindu man in love with a Muslim Woman. He is now torn between the two communities. It explores the themes of love, betrayal, and religion.
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Mohan Bagan (1932)
Mohan Bagan is another of Premchand’s best works. The short story revolves around a group of friends who go on a picnic. Exploring the themes of friendship, love, and loss, this story is way ahead of its time.
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Kafan (1936)
One of the most emotional pieces of Hindi literature, Kafan, tells the story of a poor man without money to buy a shroud for his feather. This novel talks about poverty and death and will take you on a journey to find the meaning of life.
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Mansarovar (1930)
Mansarovar is a collection of nuanced Hindi short stories by Premchand. These stories explore themes such as love, loss, social injustice, and the human condition.
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Sevasadan (1916)
Sevasadan was the first novel of Premchand, and it soon became a commercial and critical success. It tells the story of a young woman marrying a much older man against her will. This novel talks about women’s empowerment and the issues with arranged marriages.
Premchand’s writings are relevant and valuable to this day. They provide insights into our problems as individuals and as a society. He left a long-lasting impression on the world with his pen and his legacy lives on through his works, inspiring and enlightening readers worldwide.
