Daya Prakash Sinha is an Indian retired IAS officer, currently serving as the national convener for the BJP Cultural Cell and vice-president of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Life and Career
Daya Prakash Sinha was born on 5 October 1933, in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
After earning a master’s degree, he continued to study for government exams. He couldn’t clear the UPSC examination and joined the Provincial Civil Service in 1952. Where he was promoted to IAS for Uttar Pradesh. In 1993, he retired as a director of cultural affairs. During his 4-decade long tenure, he held many cultural positions and promoted performing arts in India. He also served as the chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi, Uttar Pradesh from 1986 to 1988.
Sinha developed a keen interest in theater from a young age. He started as an actor in Laxminarayan Lal’s play titled “Taj Mahal ke Aanso.”
Soon, he transitioned to playwriting and composed thirteen plays, including: “Mere Bhai Mere”, “Itihaas Chakra”, “Man Ke Bhanvar”, “Panchtantra” and “Dushman”.
His play “Katha Ek Kans Ki” was included in the syllabuses of five Indian universities, including the University of Delhi.
Sinha’s theatrical works have been published and staged for over 50 years and have been translated into multiple languages.
Award and Legacy
He was awarded the Sahitya Academy Award in 2021 for Samraat Ashok.
He also received the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award in the Republic of India.
His play “Katha Ek Kans Ki” was included in the syllabuses of five Indian universities, including the University of Delhi.
Sinha’s theatrical works have been published and staged for over 50 years and have been translated into multiple languages.