Harishankar Parsai (22 August 1924 – 10 August 1995) was an Indian writer who wrote in Hindi. He was a noted satirist and humorist of modern Hindi literature and is known for his simple and direct style.
Life and Career
Harishankar Parsai was born on 22 August 1924, in Itarsi, Madhya Pradesh, India. He completed his schooling in Itarsi and later moved to Jabalpur for higher studies. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Hitkarini College in Jabalpur.
Parsai started his career as a teacher and worked in various schools. However, his true calling lay in writing. He began contributing articles, essays, and satirical pieces to Hindi magazines and newspapers. His writing style was characterized by sharp wit, irony, and humor, often targeting societal norms, politics, and human behavior.
His works gained popularity for their insightful critique of contemporary issues and the portrayal of human follies. Some of his notable works include “Viklang Shraddha Ka Daur,” “Mujhe Amrita Chahiye,” and “Sikka Badal Gaya.”
He passed away on 10 August 1995, leaving behind a rich literary legacy.
Award and Legacy
Harishankar Parsai was honored with the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 1982 for his outstanding collection of essays titled “Viklang Shraddha Ka Daur.” This recognition from the Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, is a testament to Parsai’s literary prowess and the impact of his work on Hindi literature.
Harishankar Parsai’s writings have left an indelible mark on Hindi literature. His sharp wit, humor, and incisive commentary on social and political issues continue to resonate with readers across generations.
Parsai is celebrated for revitalizing the tradition of satire in Hindi literature. Through his essays, stories, and satirical sketches, he skillfully critiqued societal norms, human behavior, and the political landscape of his time.
Parsai’s works serve as a mirror to society, reflecting its flaws, contradictions, and absurdities. His keen observations and insightful analysis have contributed to a deeper understanding of contemporary Indian society.
Parsai’s works have been translated into various Indian languages, as well as English, allowing his ideas and humor to reach a wider audience. His writings have also been adapted into plays, television shows, and films, further cementing his legacy.