Premchand, the most famous
Hindi novelist and short story writer, was born in a small village near
Varanasi on 31 July, 1880. Originally named Dhanpat Rai, he wrote 12 novels and 300 short stories. He lost his mother at an early age of seven and was brought up by his grandmother and elder sister. 'Godan', 'Gaban', 'Bazare-e-Husn', 'Gosh-e-Afiat', 'Maidan-e-Amal' are some of his outstanding novels. Most of his writings were translated into several Indian and foreign languages, including Russian and Chinese. All his literary works depict his patriotism, his deep concern for the poor and the erosion of social values. He passed away on October 8, 1936.
