Bharatendu Harishchandra: The Father of Modern Hindi Literature

Bharatendu Harishchandra, often regarded as the father of modern Hindi literature and Hindi theatre, was a pioneering writer, poet, and playwright of the 19th century. Born on September 9, 1850, in Varanasi, he played a crucial role in shaping Hindi literature during the Indian Renaissance. His works reflected themes of nationalism, social reform, and the struggles of the common people, making him one of the most influential literary figures of his time.

Born into a family of poets and scholars, Bharatendu Harishchandra was exposed to literature and the arts from a young age. His father, Gopal Chandra, was a noted poet, which influenced Bharatendu’s early inclination toward writing. Despite losing his parents at an early age, he pursued literature with great passion and used his works as a medium to bring awareness to social and political issues.

Bharatendu’s writings were deeply rooted in patriotism, advocating for the use of Hindi as a language of the people. His famous slogan, “निज भाषा उन्नति अहै, सब उन्नति को मूल” (The progress of one’s own language is the foundation of all progress), became a guiding principle for Hindi literature. He actively promoted Hindi over Persian and Urdu, which were dominant in literature and administration at that time. His plays and poetry often highlighted issues such as poverty, social injustice, the plight of women, and the exploitation of peasants under British rule.

As a playwright, he introduced realism and social themes in Hindi drama. Some of his most notable plays include Andher Nagari, Bharat Durdasha, and Satya Harishchandra, which exposed the corrupt practices of rulers and the suffering of common people. His satirical and critical approach made his plays widely popular and instrumental in awakening political consciousness among Indians.

In addition to plays, Bharatendu Harishchandra made significant contributions to prose and poetry. He wrote essays, travelogues, and journalistic pieces, using his platform to promote social change. He was also an editor and publisher of several literary magazines such as Kavi Vachan Sudha, which provided a space for budding Hindi writers.

His influence extended beyond literature, as he played a key role in the development of Hindi journalism. By establishing printing presses and periodicals, he ensured the reach of Hindi literature to the masses. His efforts laid the foundation for the modern Hindi literary movement and inspired later generations of writers, including Premchand and Mahadevi Verma.

Despite his relatively short life—he passed away in 1885 at the age of 34—Bharatendu Harishchandra left an indelible mark on Hindi literature. His works continue to be studied and celebrated, and his legacy remains integral to the development of modern Hindi language and literature. Through his dedication to literature, social reform, and patriotism, he remains a revered figure in the history of Indian literature.

Bharatendu Harishchandra, often regarded as the father of modern Hindi literature, was a pioneer who revolutionized Hindi prose and poetry. His contributions laid the foundation for the development of Hindi as a literary language.

Early Life and Background

Born on September 9, 1850, in Varanasi, Bharatendu Harishchandra belonged to a family of poets and scholars. He showed a deep interest in literature from an early age and was proficient in Hindi, Sanskrit, Bengali, and other languages. The socio-political conditions of 19th-century India, including British rule and the cultural awakening, greatly influenced his writings.

Literary Contributions

Bharatendu’s writings covered a wide range of themes, including patriotism, social reforms, and cultural revival. His literary works include:

•Plays: Andher Nagari, Bharat Durdasha, Satya Harishchandra

•Poetry: Prem Malika, Prem Madhuri, Vinay Prem Pachasa

•Prose and Journalism: He edited and published several magazines, such as Harishchandra Chandrika and Kavi Vachan Sudha, promoting Hindi literature and journalism.

Social and Political Influence

Apart from literature, Bharatendu Harishchandra was a strong advocate for social and national awakening. He highlighted issues like poverty, exploitation, and the decline of Indian industries under British rule. His play Bharat Durdasha reflected the suffering of India under colonial rule, making him a voice of resistance in his time.

Establishment of Educational Institutions

Bharatendu Harishchandra was also instrumental in promoting education. He established the Harishchandra College in Varanasi to provide quality education to the youth and encourage the study of Hindi and Indian culture. The college continues to be an important institution, reflecting his commitment to learning and national pride.

Awards and Recognition

In recognition of his literary genius, the title of Bharatendu (meaning ‘Moon of India’) was bestowed upon him by scholars. His influence continues to shape Hindi literature and theater, making him an enduring figure in Indian cultural history.

Legacy

Bharatendu Harishchandra’s impact on Hindi literature is profound. His works not only enriched Hindi prose and poetry but also inspired future generations of writers and thinkers. Today, he is remembered as a visionary who modernized Hindi literature and brought it closer to the masses.

Conclusion

Bharatendu Harishchandra was not just a writer but a reformer who used literature as a tool for change. His works continue to inspire and hold relevance even in contemporary times, making him a timeless icon in Indian literary history