Monday, February 4, 2019
Biography of Munshi Premchand:
Munshi Premchand, born as Dhanpat Rai Srivastava (July 31, 1880 – October 8, 1936), was one of the most celebrated and influential writers of modern Hindi-Urdu literature. He is often referred to as the "Upanyas Samrat" (Emperor of Novels) and is considered a pioneer in the realm of Indian literature. Premchand wrote prolifically, addressing various social issues and capturing the essence of Indian society during the early 20th century.
Here's a brief biography of Munshi Premchand:
Early Life:
Birth and Childhood: Munshi Premchand was born in Lamhi, a village near Varanasi (in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India).
Education: His early education was in Urdu and Persian. Despite facing financial constraints, he pursued higher education and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree.
Career:
Teaching Career: Premchand worked as a schoolteacher in Gorakhpur, where he began his writing career by contributing essays and stories to various magazines under the pen name "Nawab Rai."
Literary Career: He started writing under the name Munshi Premchand after joining the literary circle of Urdu writers in Lucknow.
Novels and Short Stories: Premchand's novels and short stories reflect a deep understanding of the social and economic issues prevalent in Indian society. His notable works include "Godan," "Gaban," "Seva Sadan," and "Karmabhoomi."
Munshi Premchand's Social Reform and Realism:
Social Themes: Premchand's writings focused on the lives of the common people, addressing social issues such as poverty, untouchability, communalism, and the struggles of the working class.
Realism: He was a proponent of literary realism, portraying characters and situations realistically to depict the social conditions of his time.
Contribution to Hindi Literature:
Language Reform: Premchand played a key role in the Hindi-Urdu literary movement and advocated for the use of Khadi Boli (colloquial Hindi) in literature.
Legacy: His literary contributions significantly enriched the Hindi language and literature, earning him a lasting legacy.
Personal Life of Munshi Premchand:
Family: Premchand faced personal challenges, including financial difficulties. He was married at a young age and had a family to support.
Later Life: Despite facing personal hardships, Premchand continued his literary pursuits and remained committed to social reform through his writing.
Death:
Passing: Munshi Premchand passed away on October 8, 1936, at the age of 56, due to a sudden illness.
Munshi Premchand's works continue to be widely read and appreciated for their portrayal of human emotions, societal complexities, and a deep understanding of the human condition. His influence on Hindi-Urdu literature and his commitment to social issues have left an enduring impact on Indian literature.