Who is Known as the Father of Modern Hindi Literature?

Hindi Literature has a rich history with many great writers who shaped its modern form. In the 19th century, one such writer brought big chances by making Hindi more popular and easy to understand. Hw wrote poems, plays and essays that inspired people and addressed social issues. His efforts helped Hindi grow as a literary language and he is honored as the father of modern Hindi literature.

Father of Modern Hindi Literature

Bharatendu Harishchandra is known as the Father of Modern Hindi Literature. He was a famous poet, writer and playwriter who helped in the development of Hindi. His works talked about social issues, poverty and British rule. He encouraged the use of Hindi and wrote many plays, poems and essays.

Who was Bharatendu Harishchandra?

Bharatendu Harishchandra was born on September 9, 1850, in Varanasi, India. He belonged to a well-educated family that supported literature and poetry. His father, Girdhar Das, was also a poet. Bharatendu lost his parents at a young age but continued to develop his love for writing.

Contributions to Hindi Literature

Bharatendu Harishchandra wrote dramas, poems, essays and travel accounts to influence public opinion. He used the pen name “Rasa” in many of his writings. His works highlighted poverty, British rule and the struggles of Indian society. Some of his famous plays include:

• Vaidika Himsa Na Bhavati (1873)
• Bharat Durdasha (1875)
• Satya Harishchandra (1876)
• Andher Nagari (1881)

He also translated Bengali, Sanskrit and Prakrit works into Hindi, making them more accessible to the common people.

Role as a Social Reformer

Bharatendu Harishchandra was not just a writer but also a social reformer. He used his literature to bring attention to:

• British oppression and the need for freedom
• Poverty and social injustice
• The importance of education and women’s rights

He believed in the Swadeshi movement, promoted Hindi as the national language, and oppose cow slaughter.

Title of “Bharatendu” and Father of Modern Hindi Literature

In 1880, scholars in Kashi honored him with the title “Bharatendu,” which means “Moon of India,” for his contributions to Hindi literature. Because of his influence on modern Hindi writing, he is also called the “Father of Modern Hindi Literature.”

Legacy of Bharatendu Harishchandra

Bharatendu Harishchandra passed away on January 6, 1885, but his impact on Hindi literature remains strong. To honor his contributions, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of India started the Bharatendu Harishchandra Awards in 1983 to promote original Hindi writing in mass communication.