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Short stories by Premchand that portray complex human emotions beautifully

TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jul 31, 2020, 13:45 IST

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Munshi Premchand

One of the greatest Indian writers of the early 20th century, Munshi Premchand was born on July 31, 1880 as Dhanpat Rai Shrivastava. A simple man, Premchand's stories are a reflection of the society during his time. His stories are known for their beautiful portrayal of complex human emotions . He is the first Hindi writer who introduced realism in his stories as he wrote fictional tales with a social purpose. Though he started writing under the pen-name Nawab Rai, he soon switched to Premchand, a name which is popular with many readers even today-- more than 80 years after his death. Premchand has written roughly 300 short stories, many novels, essays, plays and letters, and translated a few foreign works into Hindi, thus aptly being called the Upanyas Samrat by other literary authors. Over the years, his works have been translated into many languages.

Remembering Premchand on his 140th birth anniversary today, we list down some of his best short stories which everyone should read.

(Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

2/8

Kafan

One of Premchand's best stories, 'Kafan' follows the life and struggles of Ghisu and Madhav- a father-son duo who are too lazy to take up menial jobs when needed. It is during one of their philosophical talks, when Ghisu and Madhav justify spending all their borrowed money for buyong a shroud/ Kafan for Ghisu's dead wife, and on drinks and food for themselves. Though Ghisu and Madhav are shown to be quite passive, the readers will sympathize with them towards end.
(Photo: Maple Press)

3/8

Boodhi Kaaki

'Boodhi Kaaki' is a heart-touching story of an old blind woman who lost her husband and sons. When her nephew promises to take care of her after she transferred all her properties to him, the innocent old woman agrees only to get cheated and ill-treated. Though she lives with the nephew and his wife Rupa, she is a neglected member of the family. Once during a function at home, everyone is enjoying a good meal but the old Kaaki is left to starve. After everyone leaves, Rupa notices the budhi Kaaki having leftovers to curb her hunger and the sight makes her realise their ill-doings.
(Photo: Rajpal & Sons)

4/8

Eidgaah

'Eidgaah' is an emotionally moving tale of 5-year-old Hamid, who lives with his poor grandmother after losing his parents. During the joyous festival of Eid, everyone heads towards Eidgaah for offering their prayers. Hamid's friends from the village and other children are excited to buy sweets and toys for themselves. But even as Hamid is tempted to buy something for himself, he puts the thought away and instead decides to gift his old grandmother this Eid. He buys a pair of tongs for her just so she doesn't burn her hands anymore while cooking for him.
(Photo: Maple Press)

5/8

Panch Parmeshwar

This story represents a situation many of us face-- when in a position of power, do we rule justly when a loved one is at stake or do we bend the rules? 'Panch Parmeshwar' is a story about two best friends Jumman Sheikh and Algu Chaudhary. A childhood friendship of the village panchayat is tested when, Alu has to make a decision that involves his friends family. When Jumman's aunt approaches the panchayat complaining that Jumman took her prperty forcibly and is now ill-treating her, Algu - who is a repesentative in the panchayat- is in a dilemma because the verdict can change his equation with Jumman forever. Will he make the right decision?
(Photo: Diamond Pocket Books)

6/8

Thakur Ka Kuan

Though 'Thakur Ka Kuan' is a story about the discrimations faced by Dalits in our society before the pre-independence era but, unfortunately, the story stands relevant even today. Gangi and her husband are a poor Dalit couple. When Gangi’s sick husband is unable to have water because it's stinking, she decides to fetch some from the Thakur's well which is forbidden for Dalits like her. She is aware that if caught, she'll be beaten to death but she still decides just to help her ailing husband.
(Photo: Diamond Books)

7/8

Do Bailon Ki Katha

This is yet anothr classic short story by the master storyteller. As the title suggests, 'Do Bailon Ki Katha' is a heartwarming tale of two oxens Heera and Moti, who are friends and determined to stay together. When their owner is no more able to take care of them, Heera and Moti are sent to their relative's place but they end-up beign ill-treated by the new master's wicked wife. Heera and Moti run away from their new home only to land-up in a warehouse with other animals; but with their will and determination, they somehow finally reach home.
(Photo: Rajpal & Sons)

8/8

Poos Ki Raat

This story is about a poor farmer Halku, who had to pay all his debt with the moeny he had saved to buy a blanket to keep him warm during winters. Now with little money and an old torn blanket, Halku has to survive a chilly January night. He has his loyal pet dog to keep him company, but will Halku be able to manage one more winter?
(Photo: General Press)

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