Yashpal (3 December 1903 – 26 December 1976) was a Hindi-language writer, political commentator, a socialist and an essayist.
Life and Career
Yashpal was born on 3 December 1903 in Kangra Hills, British India. Yashpal’s career as a writer began in the 1930s. He was associated with the Progressive Writers’ Movement, a literary movement that aimed to use literature as a tool for social and political change.
He wrote extensively on various social issues, including class struggle, caste discrimination, and the freedom movement against British colonial rule.
He attended an Arya Samaj gurukul in Haridwar on a “freeship” basis due to the family’s poverty. These gurukuls were considered “hotbeds of sedition” by the colonial administration because they fostered pride in Hindu culture and Indian achievements.
Yashpal passed away on 26 December 1976, in
Award and Legacy
He won the Hindi-language Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel Meri Teri Uski Baat in 1976 and was also a recipient of the Padma Bhushan.
His literary contributions spanned various genres, including essays, novels, short stories, a play, two travel books, and an autobiography.
Yashpal’s legacy extends beyond his works. As a prominent figure in the Progressive Writers’ Movement, he played a key role in shaping the literary landscape of his time. His writing reflected a deep engagement with social and political issues, and he used his work to advocate for social justice and change.
Throughout his career, Yashpal inspired countless writers and readers with his powerful storytelling and commitment to social causes. His novels continue to be studied and appreciated for their portrayal of Indian society and their exploration of themes such as freedom, identity, and human struggle.
In addition to his literary legacy, Yashpal’s involvement in the Indian independence movement and his contributions to social reform has earned him a place of honor in the history of modern India. He remains a revered figure not only for his literary achievements but also for his dedication to the ideals of justice, equality, and freedom.