If the work was released posthumously, its copyright will expire 60 years after the publication date. When a work enters the public domain, it signifies that the majority of works can be freely republished, translated, and adapted into various formats.
Our data compilation incorporates information from diverse sources, including Wikipedia and other online platforms, with certain references provided here.
SARALABALA SARKAR (1866- 1961) Saralabala Sarkar, a Bengali novelist, short story writer, essayist, and poet, actively participated in the Satyagraha movement in British India as a member of the Women Satyagraha Samity. She authored poetry collections such as “Prabaha” in 1904 and “Arghya” in 1938. Her memoir, “Harano Atit,” was published in 1953, and her literary contributions appeared in journals like Antahpur, Bharatbarsa, Jahnabi, Prabasi, Suprabhat, Sahitya Pradip, and Utsaha.
SACHINDRANATH SENGUPTA (1873 – 1961) Sachin Sengupta, a prominent Bengali playwright, directed and produced theatrical plays in Calcutta, India. His notable plays, including “Raktakamal,” “Rashtrabirohi,” “Desher dabi,” and “Sirajdullah,” reflected nationalist fervor. Engaged in the nationalist movement, Sengupta traveled worldwide with a non-governmental troupe. You can listen to his radio play “Yug Yugantar” for a deeper understanding of his artistic contributions.
CHANDRADHAR BARUA (1874 – 1961) Chandradhar Barua, an eminent writer, poet, dramatist, and lyricist from Assam, showcased a satirical stance in his literary works. Inspired by Michael Madhusudan, his notable kavyas include “Meghnad badh,” “Ranjan,” “Bidyut Bikash,” “Kamrup Jiyari,” and “Muktaboli.” Barua served as the second president of the Assam Sahitya Sabha in 1918 and was the founder secretary of Asam Sahitya Sabha Patrika. He also represented India at the 1930 Round Table Conference in London.
BHUPENDRANATH DATTA (1880 – 1961) Bhupendranath Datta, overshadowed by his brother Swami Vivekananda, was a scholar, revolutionary, sociologist, anthropologist, and writer. Joining the Bengal Revolutionary Society, he edited “Jugantar Patrika” and built a strong rapport with Sri Aurobindo. Datta’s political books include “Swami Vivekananda: Patriot-Prophet,” “Aprakasita Rajnitik Itihas,” “Bharater Dvitiya Svadhinatar Sagram,” and more. He played a significant role in India’s political landscape.
NALAM KRISHNA RAO (1881 – 1961) Nalam Krishna Rao, an accomplished Telugu writer, founded Gowthami Grandhalayam and authored works like “Sri Krishnaraya Andhra Vignana Sarwasvamu” and “Jateeya Lokoktulu.” The Nalam Krishna Rao Memorial Award recognizes outstanding Telugu women writers.
CHARU CHANDRA BHATTACHARYA (1883 – 1961) Charu Chandra Bhattacharya, a science teacher and Bengali science writer, preferred the simple dialect Chalit Bhasha in his writings. He contributed to Rabindra Rochonaboli and published books under the Bishwa Vidya Songroho series, focusing on science. Bhattacharya edited magazines, wrote textbooks, and aided Rabindranath Tagore in promoting literacy.
SHAUKAT ALI KHAN FANI BADAYUNI (1883 – 1961) Shaukat Ali Khan, also known as Fani Badayuni, was an Indian Urdu poet. Graduating from Bareilly College, he started composing poetry in his twenties. His notable works include “Baqiyat-e-Fani” (1926) and “Irfaniyat-e-Fani” (1938). He contributed to Urdu literature while working in the field of education.
RATHINDRANATH TAGORE (1888 – 1961) Rathindranath Tagore, son of Rabindranath Tagore, was a versatile personality—educationist, agriculturist, carpenter, architect, writer, painter, and genetics teacher. After studying in Shantiniketan and spending time in Japan, he became the first vice-chancellor of Visva-Bharati University in India. His book “Swami Vivekananda: Patriot-Prophet” is noteworthy.
SURYAKANT TRIPATHI (1896- 1961) Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala,’ a Hindi poet, novelist, artist, and essayist, pioneered the Chhayavaad movement. Despite facing numerous tragedies in his life, including an unhappy childhood and the loss of his daughter, he left a lasting impact on Hindi literature. Tripathi’s novels, such as “Nirupama,” “Prabhavati,” “Choti ki Pakad,” and “Kulli Bhat,” showcase his diverse literary talents.
R. P. SETHU PILLAI (1896 – 1961) R. P. Sethu Pillai, a Tamil scholar and writer, won the first Sahitya Akademi Award for Tamil in 1955 for his essays titled “Tamil inbam.” He contributed significantly to Tamil literature, earning a D. Litt degree. His biography of Bishop Robert Caldwell, “Caldwell Aiyar Sarithram,” is a notable work.
VATTIKOTA ALWAR SWAMY (1915- 1961) Vattikota Alwar Swamy, the first Telugu novelist, fought against the Nizam due to his love for books. His novel “Jailu Lopala” narrates his experiences during imprisonment, and he published other works like “Prajala Manishi” and “Gangu.” Swamy established Deshoddaraka Granthamala and published 35 books.
NALIN VILOCHAN SHARMA (1916 – 1961) Professor Nalin Vilochan Sharma, a Hindi Literature teacher in the University of Patna, initiated the Nakenwad movement in Hindi literature. Influenced by European literary trends, he emphasized diction in poetry. As a dramatist and critic, Sharma authored works like “Bibbo ka Bibbok,” “Drishtikon,” “Jagjivan Ram: A Biography,” “Naken ke Prapadya,” and “Swarna Manjusha.”
Abanindranath Tagore, recognized as the principal artist of the Bengal school, was the pioneering advocate of swadeshi values in Indian art. Apart from his artistic pursuits, he achieved acclaim as a prolific writer, especially in the realm of children’s literature. Affectionately known as ‘Aban Thakur,’ his significant contributions include landmark works such as Rajkahini, Budo Angla, Nalak, and Ksheerer Putul in Bengali children’s literature.
S. Wajed Ali, a Bengali storyteller and nationalist, left a lasting impact through his novels, short stories, travelogues, and essays. Among his notable works are Guldasta, Mashuker Darbar, Bhanga Banshi, Darbesher Doya, Jiboner Shilpo, Bhabishyater Bangalee, Badshahi Galpo, and Galper Majlish.
Nirupama Devi, a Bengali novelist and short story writer, crafted about a dozen novels, including Annapurnar Mandir, Bidhilipi, Shyamali, and Didi.
Kalikrishna Bose, also known as Swami Virajananda, actively participated in the Hindu reform movement. As the first person to join the Ramakrishna Order after the direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna, he played a crucial role. Virajananda, initiated into Sanyasa by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, authored notable works like Towards the Goal Supreme, Strive to attain God, and The Story of an Epoch. He also served as the publisher of Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda and The Life of the Swami Vivekananda, by His Eastern and Western Disciples.
Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, a prominent Assamese playwright, songwriter, poet, writer, and filmmaker, contributed significantly to Assamese culture. With around 300 songs to his name and notable plays like Sonit Kunwori, Karengar Ligiri, Rupalim, Nimati Konya or Rupkonwar, Jyoti Prasad Agarwala left a lasting legacy.
Kamalananda Bhattacharya, an Assamese actor and playwright, wrote four plays: Nagakowar, Avasan, Chitrangada, and Savitri. Born in Nowgong, he had a close association with Nowgong Dramatics Club.
Homvati Devi, a Hindi short story writer based in Meerut, made significant contributions with four story collections, including Dharohar, Swapanbhang, Apna Ghar, and Gote Ki Topi. Additionally, she authored two poetry collections, Udgaar and Ardhi.
Cattamanchi Ramalinga Reddy OM, also known as Sir C.R. Reddy, stood out as an eminent educationist, political thinker, essayist, economist, and poet. Writing in Telugu and English, he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s educational policy and founded Andhra University. His notable works include the Arthashastra and Vijnana Chandrika series.
Varyar Eruvayil Chakrapani, a distinguished Malayalam scholar, gained recognition for his musicals. Notable among his works are Ganasamghatitamaya Harishchandra Charitam, Sangitasakuntalam, Sangitsamghatitamaya Rugmangadacharitam Bhashanatkam, and Madhvisekharam Bhashabhanam.
Sikkim Mahinda, known as S. Mahinda, was a Buddhist monk, poet, and author from Sikkim. While participating in the Sri Lankan independence movement, he identified as Tibetan. His patriotic literary works, including over 40 books, such as Nidahase Dehena, Nidahase Manthraya, Lanka Matha, and Jathika Thotilla, earned him the status of a national hero in Sri Lanka.
Maulana Hasrat Mohani, a romantic Urdu poet, journalist, politician, and freedom fighter, was born as Syed Fazl ul Hasan. Notable among his works are Kulliyat-e-Hasrat Mohani, Sharh-e-Kalam-e-Ghalib, Nukaat-e-Sukhan, and Mushahidaat-e-Zindaan. He is credited with the famous Ghazal “Chupke Chupke raat din” and coining the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad.”
Seemab Akbarabadi, born Aashiq Hussain Siddiqui, was a renowned Urdu poet associated with the Daagh School. His significant works include Naistan, Ilhaam-e-manzoom, Kaar-e-imroz, and Sher-e-inqlaab.
Arzu Lakhnavi Sayyed Anwar Hussain, a poet, dramatist, and film writer, gained fame for his ghazals. Notable collections include Fughan-e-Arzu, Jahan-e-Arzu, Nishan-e-Arzu, Surili Bansri, and Mizan-ul-Huruf. He also authored the esteemed grammar of Urdu language, Nizam-i-Urdu.
The list concludes with names: Abu Said Bazmi, Mian Abdul Aziz, Maulavi Mahesh Prasad, Mirza Mohammad Askari, and Tajvar Najibabadi.
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- Abdur Rahim (Judge) (1867-1952):
- A British India judge, politician, and prominent member of the Muslim League.
- Notable Works: “The Principles Of Muhammadan Jurisprudence,” “Accha Rai Rasik (1928-1952)” (a humorous prose writer from Darjeeling).
- Balwantrai Thakor (1869-1952):
- Prof. Balwantrai Thakore, a key figure in the Pandit yug of Gujarati poetry.
- Recognized for his impactful contributions to Gujarati poetry.
- Bani Kanta Kakoti (1894-1952):
- A significant literary figure, critic, and scholar in Assamese language.
- Noteworthy Works: “Assamese: Its Formation and Development (1941),” “Purani Axhomiya Xhahitya (1940),” and more.
- Adavi Bapi Raju (1895-1952):
- Renowned Telugu novelist, poet, playwright, painter, and art director.
- Works include novels like “Narayanarao” and “Gona Ganna Reddy.”
- Beni Madhab Das (1866 – 1952):
- An erudite Bengali scholar and teacher.
- Notable for presiding over the All-India Theistic Conference in 1923.
- Brajendranath Banerjee:
- Bengali literary historiographer, known for biographies of writers from the 19th and 20th centuries.
- Chelannat Achutha Menon (1894-1952):
- Prolific Malayalam writer and Head of the Malayalam Department at the University of Madras.
- Garimella Satyanarayana (1893-1952):
- Poet and Freedom Fighter from Andhra Pradesh, India.
- Known for making Telugu songs a powerful tool for mass movements.
- Ghulam Ahmad Mahjoor (1885-1952):
- Renowned poet from the J&K Kashmir Valley.
- Noted for introducing a new style into Kashmiri poetry and expanding thematic realms.
- Ghulam Bhik Nairang (1876-1952):
- Distinguished lawyer, poet, and Indian Muslim leader.
- Migrated to Pakistan after partition.
- Kishorlal Mashruwala (1890-1952):
- Eminent Gandhian thinker writing in Gujarati.
- Works include “Ram Ane Krsna” and “Isu Khrust.”
- Mohammad Yunus (1884-1952):
- The first Prime Minister of Bihar province in British India.
- Noted for his poetic works addressing topics like Hindu-Muslim Unity.
- Mohitlal Majumdar (1888-1952):
- Renowned Bengali author and literary critic.
- Works include “Svapan Pasari” and “Smara Garal.”
- M. P. Paul (1904-1952):
- A well-known literary critic of Malayalam and scholar of progressive literature movement in Kerala.
- Narayana Rao Chilukuri (1890-1952):
- Well-known lexicographer, historian, and scholar.
- Paramahansa Yogananda (1893-1952):
- Indian yogi and guru who introduced meditation and Kriya Yoga through “Autobiography of a Yogi.”
- Rashid Jahan (1905-1952):
- Urdu writer known for her groundbreaking contributions to Urdu literature.
- Surendranath Dasgupta (1887-1952):
- Scholar of Sanskrit and philosophy.
- Amir Ahmad Alavi (1879-1952):
- Urdu critic known for works like “Mathnaviyat” (1936) and “Tadhkira-i-Rind.”
- Charuchandra Datta:
- Principal of Visvabharati College, retired from ICS.
- Kabiruddin ‘Kalim’ (1870-1952):
- Indian author, writer, and social activist during the Bhopal State period.
- Kartar Singh Kalaswalia (1882-1952):
- Noted for his rendition of Sikh history in verse.
- Kaveripatna Sidhanatha Venkataramani (1891-1952):
- Novelist, short-story writer, and essayist in English and Tamil.
- K. Godavarma (1902-1952):
- Linguist known for work on Malayalam.
- Mufti Kifayatullah Dehlavi (1875-1952):
- A Muslim scholar of Islam.
- Ramadhin Mishra:
- Well-known journalist, essayist, and critic.
- Shaikh Abdul Qadir Sarfaraz:
- Urdu prose writer, biographer, and educationist.
- Sir Mahomed Khan Dehlavi:
- Vahengbam Yumjao Sinha:
- Manipuri grammarian & author, wrote “Longi Vayel” in 1949, a grammar of Manipuri.
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Akhoy Kumar Mozumdar (1864-1953)
An Indian lecturer and writer associated with the New Thought Movement in the United States during the first half of the 20th century. Numerous of his works can be accessed online.
Akali Kaur Singh (1890-1953)
A Sikh scholar and religious preacher. In 1929, Akali Kaur Singh compiled an index of Bhai Gurdas’s works, including the Guru Shabad Ratan Prakash (1923). Among his other publications were Kavi Sainapati’s Sri Gur Sobha (1925) and a standard breviary or missal of daily Sikh prayers, Gutkta Pramanik Nitnem (1927). His original works cover a range of topics, from a Gurmukhi transcript of Panchtantra to a forceful plea for the social uplift of women titled Istri Sankat Mochan (1925). Source
Abdullah Yusuf Ali (1872-1953)
Yusuf_aliAn Indian Islamic scholar renowned for translating the Qur’an into English. His translation stands as one of the most widely known and used in the English-speaking world.
Balijepalli Lakshmikantham (1881-1953)
celebrated Telugu dramatist, actor, and freedom fighter, known for his notable work, Harischandra (Satya Hariscandriyamu, 1924).
Girindrasekhar Bose (1887-1953)
An early 20th-century psychoanalyst and the first president (1922–1953) of the Indian Psychoanalytic Society. Some of his works are available on Google Books.
Ghulam Ali Rahim Bakhsh Masroor (1892-1953)
Popularly known as Faqir Ghulam Ali Masroor, he was a renowned Sindhi poet. His poems, in masnavi form, are featured in Heer Ranjha.
Hakim Syed Karam Husain (1870-1953)
A prominent Unani practitioner from Tijara, Alwar, and an Urdu poet using the pen name Natiq. He authored numerous books on Unani medicine.
Halasangi Chennamallappa (1903-1953)
Also known as Madhura Chenna, he was a major Kannada poet of the navodaya school. His collection of poems, Nanna Nalla, was published in 1933. Some of his works are also available in Braille, courtesy of the Kannada Book Authority.
K. N. Kesari (1875-1953)
Grahalakshami, a monthly magazine for women. He chronicled his life in Telugu with the memoir titled Chinnanati Mutchatlu.
Lakshmikant Mohapatra (1888-1953)
An Oriya writer renowned for his lyrical poems and balles-letters. Jivana Sangita is a collection of metaphysical poems, and Kanamamun is a novel. His hymn to Orissa, ‘Bande Utkal Janani,’ is well-regarded. He also penned satirical parodies of poems.
M R Srinivasamurthy (1892-1953)
Kannada scholar, novelist, and playwright. Notable work includes Rangannana Kanasina Dinagalu (1949).
Pharamaji Khabarada (-1953)
Parsi poet who wrote in narrative poetry and sonnets in Gujarati.
Ram Narayan Mishra (-1953)
Hindi poet and founding member of Nagari Pracharini Sabha. Works include Bhartiya Shishtachaar and Humaare Pramukh Sahityakaar.
Safia Akhtar (-1953)
Wife of Jan Nisar Akhtar and sister of Majaz. Her letters, published in two volumes in 1955, provide insight into her thoughts. An English translation of her last few letters is available.
Shahadat Hussain (1893-1953)
A Bengali poet and writer.
Suravaram Pratapa Reddy (1896-1953)
A social historian from the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. His social history of the Telugu people, Andhrula Saanghika Charitra, first published in 1949, received the best national book award (Kendra Sahitya Academy Puraskaram).
Syed Sulaiman Nadvi (1884-1953)
Iqbal_in_AfghanistanAn eminent Indian historian, biographer, littérateur, and scholar of Islam. Some of his works are accessible online.
Tiruvengimalai Sesha Sundara Rajan (1880-1953)
TSSRajanAn Indian doctor, politician, and freedom-fighter. His autobiography is available online.
Thakurjoo Sapru (1878-1953)
A Kashmiri shivabhakt poet of the Nirgunavad School.
Umesh Chandra Chaudhury (1898-1953)
Assamese poet renowned for his collection of poems, Pratidhvani (1939).
V. Kalyanasundaram (1883-1953)
KalyanasundaramA Tamil scholar, essayist, and activist known for the strong humanism in his essays, the analytical depth of his commentaries on classical Tamil literature and philosophy, and the clear, fluid style of his prose.
V. R. Ramachandra Dikshitar (1896-1953)
A historian, Indologist, and Dravidologist from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. He authored many standard textbooks, with a scanned copy of War in Ancient India available online.
Cornelia Sorabji (1864-1954).
Cornelia Sorabji, born into a Christian Parsi family in Nasik in 1866, made history as India’s first woman lawyer. Her remarkable career spanned almost sixty years, and her writings provide insights into colonial India, showcasing her experiences as both a woman and a lawyer. Notable works like “Love and Life behind Purdah” (1902) delve into the lives of women in the zenana, emphasizing the necessity for societal engagement and reform. A strong advocate for children and women, her books such as “Sun-Babies: Studies in the child life of India” and “Between the Twilights: Being studies of India women by one of themselves” (1908) reflect her active involvement in these causes.
V.V. Srinivasa Aiyangar (1871-1954), a prominent figure in the Madras Bar, showcased his expertise in a different realm—writing farcical pieces. His work “Dramatic Divertissements,” published in two volumes by 1921, consists of playlets exposing the weaknesses of the urban South Indian middle class.
Lalcand Amard’inomal Jagatiani (1885-1954) achieved a significant milestone at the age of 26 by becoming the first Hindu to write a biography of Hazrat Muhammad, titled “Muhammad Rasul Allah” (1911). His vast knowledge encompassed diverse subjects, from Vedas, Upanishads, and Islamic philosophy to Theosophical Society literature and Sindhi Sufi mystic thought. His extensive literary contributions include novels, essays, short stories, and plays, with his fiction “Coth Jo Candu” (1909) gaining notable recognition.
Kota Venkatachalam (1885-1954), a Telugu scholar, gained prominence for his work “Brahmanda Srsti Vijnanam” (1949), an analytical exploration of Sanskrit puranas with nationalistic undertones.
Garuda Sadashiva Rao (1874-1954), a popular Kannada playwright and supporter of the freedom movement, left an indelible mark on Indian professional theatre. His notable plays, including one centered on Jesus Christ, contributed to a new chapter in the history of Indian drama.
Rayasam Venkata Sivudu (1874?-1954?), a writer and social reformer, is best known for his Telugu short stories compiled under “Cithrakta manjari.” He authored novels and biographies and served as the editor of “Zanana Patrika,” a magazine for women.
Lala Dhani Ram Chatrik (1876-1954), revered as the founder of Punjabi poetry, standardized the typeset for Gurumukhi script. His works, such as “Kaser Kiari” (1940) and “Navam Jahan” (1945), reflect realism and imagery inspired by Punjabi countryside life.
Nalappatu Narayana Menon (1887-1954), a noted Malayalam poet and translator, gained fame for his elegy “Kunnunirthulli” (1924). His translation of Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables” triggered a social revolution in Kerala, despite Mahatma Gandhi’s suggestion to adapt it to the Kerala milieu.
Ramanlal Vasantlal Desai (1892-1954), a popular Gujarati writer, focused on middle-class life in Gujarat. Influenced by Gandhian ideals and communism, his notable novels include “Divyacaksu” (1932), “Purnima” (1932), and “Bharelo Agni” (1935).
Teja Singh (1894-1954), a major Punjabi prose writer and educator, introduced literary essays in Punjabi on Western models. His autobiography “Arsi” is considered his best work, and his Anglo-Punjabi dictionary remains valuable.
Jibananda Das (1899-1954), considered the most significant poet after Tagore, was known for his introspective and poignant poetry. His notable works include “Jhara Palak” (1928), “Dharsar Pandulip” (1936), “Mahaprathibi” (1944), and “Banalata Sen” (1952).
Prabhat Chandra Adhikari (1900-1954), an Assamese poet, gained recognition for his collection “Dohavali.”
Harinder Singh Rup (1907-1954), a major Punjabi poet, adopted a neo-classical style in his works. His collections, such as “Nave Pandh” (1945) and “Manukh di var” (1952), were traditional poems infused with a modern worldview.
Barada Charan Gupta (?-1955): An accomplished geologist and writer, Barada Charan Gupta was a prominent member of the Sabujpatra group of writers in colonial Bengal. This group advocated free thinking and rationalism, showcasing Cholitobhasha, the Standard Colloquial Bengali dialect. Gupta’s contributions to Sabujpatra, including a foreword by Rabindranath Tagore, have been published. Additionally, he authored a subsequent book.
Bokhud Dehlvi (1863-1955): A disciple of Dagh Dehlvi, Bokhud Dehlvi delved into the world of sher-o-shayari, demonstrating a keen sense of linguistic nuances and valuable colloquialisms. His notable compositions include Guflar-e-Bekhud and Shahsavaar e Bekhud.
Brijmohan Dattatriya Kaifi (1866-1955): Renowned as an Urdu litterateur, Brijmohan Dattatriya Kaifi gained fame for his book Kaifiyah, addressing Urdu language, literature, and stylistic concerns. He also defended Urdu in his essay Urdu hamari zuban.
Benudhar Rajkhowa (1872-1955): A distinguished writer, poet, and dramatist from Assam, Benudhar Rajkhowa served as an editor for Bijuli magazine and contributed to a leading Assamese magazine. His literary works include Duryodhanar Urubhanga and Daks Yajna, advocating female education and critiquing the consequences of polygamy in his satirical plays.
Khwaja Hasan Nizami (1873-1955): A highly popular Urdu novelist, Khwaja Hasan Nizami’s notable works include the historical novel Tamanchah bar rukhsar-i-yazid and stories based on the 1857 rebellion called Angrezon ke qisse.
Maula Bakhash Kushta (1876-1955): Despite lacking formal education, Maula Bakhash Kushta achieved great fame as a Punjabi and Urdu poet, specializing in writing Kissas and ghazals in classical Urdu.
Karunanidhan Bandyopadhyay (1877-1955): A Bengali poet, Karunanidhan Bandyopadhyay focused his poetry on the concept of Bhakti, with notable works like Santi Jal, Dhan Durba, and Rabindra-arati.
Dinabandhu Jha (1878-1955): Known as Mahavaiyakarana, Dinabandhu Jha authored the most comprehensive treatise on Maithali grammar, Mithila Bhasa Kosa, and Dhautupatha, a dictionary of verbal roots.
Jnanadabhiram Barua (1880-1955): A multifaceted personality, Jnanadabhiram Barua was a freedom fighter, writer, dramatist, and Assamese translator. His works encompass Venishor Saud, Pancharatna, Dodair poja, Bialator Sithi (Letters from Abroad), and Mor Katha, an autobiographical book.
Aslam Jairajpuri (1882-1955): An Islamic scholar and professor of Arabic and Persian, Aslam Jairajpuri’s renowned works include Talimat-e-Qur’an and History of Qur’an, along with other significant contributions.
Iqbal Ahmed Khan (1884-1955): A distinguished Urdu poet writing under the pen name Suhail, Iqbal Ahmed Khan wore many hats, including Islamic scholar, lawyer, educationist, nationalist, and politician. His works are featured in the Encyclopedic Dictionary of Urdu Literature.
S.G. Shastri (1890-1955): A major translator of Kannada, S.G. Shastri adapted European plays such as Ibsen’s Doll’s House.
Samad Mir (1893-1955?): A Kashmiri poet, Samad Mir infused Sufi mysticism, folklore, and personal experiences into his poems, with Akanandun being one of his renowned works.
Shankar Dattatraya Javdekar (1894–1955): Also known as Acharya Javdekar, this Marathi writer, freedom fighter, and journalist combined socialist and Gandhian ideologies in his works, including Sarwodaya and Samajwad.
Ramnath Biswas (1894–1955): Starting as a manager at a swadeshi company, Ramnath Biswas traveled extensively on his bicycle, covering 51,000 miles. His travelogues, published with Anandabazar Patrika, showcase his adventurous life.
Ramnarayan V.Pathak (1887-1955): An eminent Gujarati writer and critic, Ramnarayan V.Pathak incorporated Gandhian and socialist views into his writings, with Avatikal offering a scientific perspective on socialism in the Indian context.
Rupnarayan Sinha (1904-1955): A pioneer of the Nepali language, Rupnarayan Sinha is renowned for his ornamental prose style, with Bhramar being one of his notable works.
Yashavant Pandya (1905-1955): A Gujarati playwright, Yashavant Pandya wrote several plays, including Padada Pachal, Saratna Ghoda, and Yasavant Pandyanan Balnatako, focusing mainly on one-act plays.
Maharaja Bodhchandra Simha (1908-1955): The last king of Manipur, Maharaja Bodhchandra Simha, was a poet who wrote Singel Nacom.
Asrar ul Haq Majaz (1911–1955): An Indian Urdu poet, Asrar ul Haq Majaz is remembered for his romantic and revolutionary poetry. His important works include Naya Adab, Parcam, Shab-e-taab, Aahang, and Saaz-e-Nau.
Saadat Hasan Manto (1912–1955): Celebrated as one of the most prominent South Asian authors, Saadat Hasan Manto wrote prolifically, specializing in short stories known for their brazen honesty and exploration of societal issues. Some of his notable works include Toba Tek Singh, Thanda Gosht, Kali Salwaar, Khol Do, and many others. Manto faced trials for obscenity but left an enduring legacy in literature.
Dakshinaranjan Mitra Majumder (1877–1956) was a renowned Indian author in Bengali, specializing in fairy tales and children’s literature. His significant contribution to Bengali literature was the meticulous compilation of folk and fairy tales, presented in four volumes—Thakurmar Jhuli (Grandmother’s Bag of Tales), Thakurdadar Jhuli (Grandfather’s Bag of Tales), Thandidir Thale (Maternal-Grandmother’s Bag of Tales), and Dadamashayer Thale (Maternal-Grandfather’s Bag of Tales).
Amarlal Hingorani (1907-1956) was a distinguished Sindhi short story writer, recognized for his realistic portrayal of characters. UNESCO featured his notable story ‘Ado Abdul Rehman’ in one of its publications.
Anantram Kandukuri (Karuna Kumara) (1901-1956) gained fame as a prominent Telugu writer of short stories, pioneering the exploration of rural life as a theme. Additionally, he had a noteworthy career as an actor, specializing in mythological roles.
Bal Sitaram Mardhekar (1909 – 1956), also known as the Father of Modernism in Marathi poetry, was a multifaceted writer, poet, critic, and novelist. Influenced by Marathi bhakti poetry and the works of T. S. Eliot and W. H. Auden, his avant-garde poetry, including Anakhi Kahi Kavita and novels like Pani and Ratrica Divas, significantly shaped Marathi literature.
Baishnaba Pani (1882–1956), an Odia jatra writer and arranger, infused mythology and contemporary issues into his fiction. With an impressive body of work encompassing 600 pieces, including yatras, farces, and anthologies of lyrics, Pani left a lasting impact on Odia literature.
Har Datt Sharma (1890-1956), a Dogri poet, was best known for his compilation titled Dogri Bhajanmala (1936).
Makhmur Dihlavi, Fazl-I Ilahi (1900-1956) made a mark as a prominent Urdu poet, and his renowned work, Kulliyat-I Makhmur, showcased his poetic brilliance.
Manik Bandyopadhyay (1908-1956), a major figure in Bengali literature, authored 36 novels and 177 short stories. Initially influenced by Freudian ideology, his later works reflected Communist sentiments. Notable creations include Putul Nacer Itikatha, Padmanadir Majhi, Jiyanta, and Sahartali.
Mohammad Mobin (pseudonym Kaifi Chiryakoti) (1890-1956) curated Jayahiri-I sukhan, va’ni, Urdu shu’ara ke kalam ka intikhab, a four-volume collection of poems by various poets. His own poems were compiled in Parah hai Jigar and Nashter-i-gham (1927).
Munsif Nachiket Drupadlal (pseudonym Ketan Munsi) (1930-1956) was a notable Gujarati short story writer, recognized for works like Andhari Rate (1952) and Svapnano Bhangar (1953).
Pandit Godavarish Misra (1886-1956), a major Oriya poet, dramatist, and novelist, was known for using literature to promote patriotism. His works, including Alekhika, Kalika, Kisalaya, Gitayana, Purusottama Deva, Mukunda Deva, 1817, and Arddha Satabdira Odisa O Tahinre Mo Sthana, showcased his versatility.
Qazi Mohammad Abdul Ghaffar (1888-1956), a journalist and political activist, contributed to publications like Ajib and Tin paise ki chokri.
Sitaramacandra Rao, Oddiraju (1887-1956), along with his brother, made significant contributions to the Telugu language in the Nizam state.
Sobharaj Fani (1883-1956), a poet and essayist in Sindhi, was particularly renowned for his historical essays on about eighty towns and cities of Sindh. Notable works include Khyali Jhalka, Chita Phulawari, Roohani Tijala, and Tarjuma-e-Gulistan.
Vavilla Venkateswara Shastri (1885-1956) rendered valuable services for the development of Telugu studies through numerous journals and publications.
Virumal Begraj (1874-1956), a Deshbhakta and one of the first nationalist authors in Sindhi, went to jail during the freedom struggle. His notable work is Munhinji Jail Yatra (1923).
Yaganah Changezi (1883-1956), an Urdu poet, collaborated with Mirza Yas and produced four collections of poems, including Nishtar-i- Yaas (1914), Tarana (1933), Aayat-i-Wijdani (1927), and Ganjina (1948). His prose works include Ghalib-Shikan.
Zafar Ali Khan, Maulvi (1873-1956), an Urdu poet and prose writer, founder and publisher of the Zamindar of Lahore, wrote satirized poetry. His publications encompass Khayaban-I Faris, poems like Chamanistan and Nigaristan, and novels like Haqiqatva afsanah and Tilismi hur.
Bhai Vir Singh (1872-1957):
Renowned as the architect of the Sikh literary Renaissance, Bhai Vir Singh, a distinguished Punjabi poet, began his literary journey with lyrics in his youth before channeling his energies into pamphleteering. His works delve into themes of renunciation, piety, and sacrifice, with the famous poem “Rana Surat Singh” among his notable compositions. Vir Singh played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Punjabi literary tradition by blending it with English ideas. Serialized originals such as “Sri Guru Nanak Chamatkar” and “Sri Guru Kalgidhar Chamatkar” showcase his significant contributions. Alongside romance and philosophy, his repertoire includes shorter poems and lyrics. Honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1955 and the Padma Bhushan Award in 1956, Bhai Vir Singh’s legacy extends beyond his literary achievements.
Aleixo Clemente Messias Gomes (1873-1957):
Also known as Prof. Messias Gomes, Aleixo Clemente Messias Gomes, a secondary school teacher, writer, and Goan journalist, gained recognition for his works on historical themes. As a co-founder of the daily “O Heraldo,” the first daily publication in Portuguese India, his contributions left a lasting impact on Goan journalism.
Brajendra Kishore Roy Chowdhury (1874-1957):
A patron of the Indian national education movement and a renowned classical music maestro from Gouripur, Bengal, Brajendra Kishore Roy Chowdhury, a Zamindar, significantly contributed to both education and the arts. His literary works include “Marxism and the Indian Ideal” and “Indian Music & Mian Tansen.”
Jagadish Gupta (1886-1957):
Jagadish Gupta, an Indian poet, novelist, and short story writer, emerged as a major figure in modern Bengali literature. His original style, dealing with realistic and psychological themes, set him apart. Notable works like “Asadhu Siddhartha” and “Kashyap o Surabhi” showcase his literary prowess. The Government of India recognized his contributions with the ‘Distinguished Man of Letters Allowance’ in 1954.
S Shripad Mahadev Mate (1886-1957):
Mahaar Mate, as dubbed by the Dalits, S Shripad Mahadev Mate was a Marathi writer, educator, and social reformer from Maharashtra. His relentless efforts against caste discrimination are reflected in works like “Rasvanthichi Janm Katha” and “Upekshithanche Antarang.”
Karmegha Konar (1889-1957):
Popularly known as Chennaa Pulavar, Karmegha Konar, a Tamil poet and educator, served as the Chairman of the Tamil department at The American College in Madurai.
Narahari Dvarkadas Parikh (1891-1957):
A writer, Indian independence activist, and social reformer from Gujarat, Narahari Dvarkadas Parikh’s association with Gandhian institutes shaped his ideals. Biographies such as “Mahadevbhainu Purvacharit” and writings on human economics like “Manav Arthshastra” highlight his multifaceted contributions.
Venkata Krishna Rao, Bhavaraju (1895-1957):
Founder-secretary of the Andhra Historical Research Society, Venkata Krishna Rao, Bhavaraju, made significant contributions to Telugu historical research. His works, including “History of the Early Dynasties of the Andhradeshas” and “History of the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi,” demonstrate his commitment to preserving and disseminating historical knowledge.
Nanduri Venkata Subba Rao (1895–1957):
A renowned Telugu poet and lawyer, Nanduri Venkata Subba Rao, authored the influential work “Yenki Patalu.” His impact resonated with eminent writers and thinkers like Adavi Bapiraju, Sri Sri, Chalam, Devulapalli, and Krishna Sastry.
Ram Babu Saxena (1897-1957):
A polyglot civil servant from Uttar Pradesh, Ram Babu Saxena, proficient in English, Persian, and Urdu literature, left a mark with his book “Modern Urdu Poetry.”
Bose Sunirmal (1902-1957):
A pioneer of Bengali juvenile literature, Bose Sunirmal contributed poetry, rhymes, stories, drama, and travelogues to journals of his time, influencing young readers with works like “Chhanabada” and “Bade Maja.”
J. Friend-Pereira (1907-1957):
An Anglo-Indian academic and author, J. Friend-Pereira’s poetic contributions, such as “Mind’s Mirror,” and translations of works on Avicenna showcased his literary versatility.
Bhuvaneshwar (1910-1957):
A trailblazer of western-style one-act plays in Hindi, Bhuvaneshwar drew inspiration from Ibsen, Shaw, Lawrence, and Freud. His diverse works, including “Shyama (Ek Vaivahik Vidambana)” and historical plays like “Azadi ki Ninu,” explored various dimensions beyond relationships.
Mahadevan or Devan (1913-1957):
A popular Tamil writer, Mahadevan, often compared to Charles Dickens, infused wit and humor into his stories, novels, travelogues, dramas, and reports. Notable works like “Justice Jagannathan” showcase his storytelling prowess.
Bakulesh (1919-1957):
Pen-named Bakulesh, Ramji Arjun Gajkandh, a journalist and writer from a Gujarati Kutchhi family, created poetic and down-to-earth stories, evident in collections like “Bakuleshni Vartso,” “Kharan Pani,” and “Kadavnan Kanku.”
Krishan Nair (?-1957):
A Malayalam scholar and critic, Krishan Nair authored “Kavya Jivitha Vrtti,” a treatise on Indian poetics, leaving an indelible mark on literary scholarship.
Lala Laxman (?- 1957):
Inspired by writer and satirist Habibullah, Lala Laxman, a satirist, infused elements of Shahrashob into his compositions, expressing socio-political unrest in his works.
Bhamidipati Kameswara Rao (1897-1958)
Renowned for his expertise in Telugu comedy drama, Bhamidipati Kameswara Rao, also known as ‘Hasya Brahma,’ was an accomplished educationist and genius. His comedic plays, influenced by the works of French writer Moliere and Gurajada Appa Rao, showcased his versatility. Adapting many of Moliere’s plays into Telugu and drawing inspiration from Gurajada Appa Rao’s use of spoken regional dialect, Rao also crafted original prahasanas. His collected works can be found in “Bhamidipati Kameswararao Rachanalu-Vols.1 and 2,” which includes notable pieces such as “Thyagaraja Atmavicaram” and “Bataa khani.” Despite his comedic writing, biographer Patanjali Sastry notes that Rao remained an introvert, rarely displaying a smile even in response to jokes.
Sir Jadunath Sarkar CIE (1870 – 1958)
An eminent Indian Bengali historian, Sir Jadunath Sarkar specialized in exploring the life and era of Aurangazeb. Serving as the Vice Chancellor of Calcutta University, he was honored with the title of Companion of the Order of the Indian Empire (CIE) by Britain and was knighted in 1929. Sarkar’s notable works include “The India of Aurangzib” (1901) and the extensive five-volume “History of Aurangzib,” a monumental effort spanning twenty-five years. Additionally, he completed the four-volume “Fall of the Mughal Empire” in 1950. Single-volume works by Sarkar include “Chaitanya: His Pilgrimages and Teachings” (1913) and “Shivaji and His Times” (1919).
Mafizuddin Ahmed Hazarika (1870-1958)
Belonging to the Jonaki era of Assamese Literature, Mafizuddin Ahmed Hazarika was a prominent poet known as ‘Jnan Malinir Kobi’ in Assam. Recognized as a symbol of national integration, he was admired for his secular thoughts. Notable poetic works by Hazarika include “Jnan Malini” and “Totwo Parijaat.”
Taraknath Das (1884 – 1958)
A Bengali Indian revolutionary and internationalist scholar, Taraknath Das was a vocal anti-British figure. Discussing his plans with notable figures such as Tolstoy, he served as a professor of political science at Columbia University. Das founded the Indian Independence League and conducted a comprehensive study on Japanese Expansion, later published as “Is Japan a menace to Asia?” in 1917.
Teja Singh (1894-1958)
A writer, translator, and scholar based in Punjab, Teja Singh played a pivotal role in the Singh Sabha literary movement. After learning Gurmukhi, Urdu, and Persian from local institutions, he became increasingly anti-British following his initiation into the Khalsa fold. Working at Khalsa College, Amritsar, Singh wrote extensively on Sikhism, with notable books including “Growth of Responsibility in Sikhism” (1919), “Highroads of Sikh History” (1935), and “A Short History of the Sikhs” (1950). He also authored his autobiography, “Arsi,” and compiled English-Panjabi and Panjabi-English Dictionaries.
Vallathol Narayana Menon (1878 – 1958)
A prominent Keralite writer and Mahakavi, Vallathol Narayana Menon was one of the leading modern Malayalam poets. Proficient in Sanskrit, he gained recognition with “Mahakavya Chitrayogam,” based on a story from the Kathasaritsagara. Addressing diverse themes such as social injustices, Christian symbolism, romance, Hindu mythology, and personal health, Menon received the Padma Bhushan in 1954. He founded the Kerala Kalamandalam and revitalized the traditional dance form Kathakali. Menon’s extensive collection of works, including “Abhivadyam,” “Achanum Makalum,” and “Sahitya Manjari – 11 Volumes,” is available on platforms like Amazon.
Vidyagauri Nilkanth (1876-1958)
One of the first two women graduates of Gujarat, Vidyagauri Nilkanth was a notable Indian social reformer, educationist, and writer. Collaborating with her husband, she wrote articles and books, and jointly edited a magazine. Actively involved in social causes such as adult education and women’s empowerment, Nilkanth founded Lalshanker Umia Shanker Mahila Pathshala, later affiliated to SNDT (Karve) University. A prolific writer, she contributed to women’s magazines and translated R.C. Dutt’s book, “The Lake of Palms,” with her sister.
Govind Sakharam Sardesai (1865–1959)
Govind Sakharam Sardesai was popularly known as Riyasatkar Sardesai and was a Padma Bhushan winner. He was born in a middle-class family and after receiving a college education, he worked as a personal secretary to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and tutor to the princes. He was a historian from Maharashtra and under the Maharaja’s patronage, he wrote a number of books including the eight-volume Marathi series Riyasats which told the thousand-year history of India, three volumes of Musalmani Riyasat and two volumes of British Riyasat. Another book he authored was a three-volume series called New History of the Marathas. Sardesai’s scholarship is remarkable. He was responsible for editing 35,000 documents in Marathi, English, Gujarati and Persian and he then published 45 volumes of Peshwa daftar.
Haricharan Bandopadhayaya (1867–1959)
Haricharan Bandopadhayaya was a scholar and lexicographer best known for his 5-volume Bangiya Sabdakosh (Bengali dictionary). Rabindranath Tagore personally got him to Shantiniketan and it was at his request that Bandopadhyaya began to compile the dictionary, a task that took forty years to complete! He also wrote books such as Sanskrit Pravesh, Pali Pravesh, Byakaran Koumadi, Hints on Sanskrit Translation and Composition, Kobir Katha, Rabindranather Katha, etc. He was the recipient of several awards such as the Sarojini Basu Gold Medal, Sisir Kumar Memorial Prize from the University of Calcutta and Desikottama from Visva Bharati.
Abdur Razzaq Malihabadi (1875–1959)
Abdur Razzaq Malihabadi was a journalist and was primarily known as the autobiographer of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. He was born in Malihabad in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He studied in UP and did his doctorate in Saudi Arabia. He worked at All India Radio heading Arabic Department in New Delhi. He was close to the Saudi monarchy. He wrote against the British Raj. His books Zikar-e-Azad and Azad Ki Kahani Khud Azad Ki Zubani were posthumously published.
R. Rangaraju (1875–1959)
R. Rangaraju was a bestselling Tamil novelist from Madras Presidency, British India. He is considered as one of the pioneers of Tamil fiction writing. He was born in Paalayamkottai. He started writing detective novels in 1908. His novels had social reformist themes like the emancipation of women and thievery in mutts. His novels had many reprints and sold as much as 70,0000 copies Some of books are Rajambal, Chandrakantha, Mohanasundaram, Anandakrishnan, Rajendran, Varadharaja, Vijayaragavan and Jeyarangan.
Dil Shahjahanpuri (1875–1959)
Dil Shahjahanpuri was the pen name of Zameer Hasan Khan, the famous Urdu ghazal writer. He was born in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh and was the disciple of the Urdu poet, Amir Meenai. Two collections of his ghazals have been published: Naghma e Dil and Tarana e Dil.
Barindra Kumar Ghosh (1880–1959)
Barindra Kumar Ghosh or Barin Ghosh as he was better known was an Indian revolutionary and journalist. He was Sri Aurobindo’s younger brother and one of the founding members of Jugantar, a revolutionary outfit in Bengal. He studied in Deoghar and received military training in Baroda. Barin Ghosh was sentenced to death in the Alipore Bomb Case but the sentence was reduced to life imprisonment, and he was deported to the Cellular Jail in Andaman. Once he was released, he took to journalism and formed an ashram in Kolkata. Aurobindo had led him toward the revolutionary movement and the same brother now had turned into a spiritual icon. He started an English weekly, The Dawn of India and was the editor of the Bengali daily Dainik Basumati.
Some of his books include Dvipantarer Banshi, Pather Ingit, Amar Atmakatha, Agnijug, Rishi Rajnarayan, The Tale of My Exile and Sri Aurobindo.
Narayana Panickar (1889–1959)
Narayana Panickar was an Indian essayist, playwright, translator, lexicographer, novelist and historian of Malayalam. He was born in Alappuzha district in Kerala. He studied at Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam and worked as a teacher.
He has written over 100 books but is best known for Kerala Bhasha Sahithya Charthram, a six-volume comprehensive history of Malayalam literature up to 1954 and Navayuga Bhasha Nighantu, a lexicon. He also wrote novels and translated Tamil and Bengali classics. He was a Sahitya Akademi winner in 1955.
Muhammad Ilyas (Elias) Burney (1890–1959)
Professor Elias Burney was the first head of the Department of Economics at Osmania University in Hyderabad, India. He published about 40 books in Urdu, Persian, Arabic and English.
His most famous work is Qadiani Muzhab, a book on the Ahmadiyya religion. One of his books called Urdu Hindi Rasmulkhat (Scripts) was a comparative study of Urdu and Hindi scripts. Another interesting book in English is My Life and Experiences.
Dhiraj Bhattacharya (1905–1959)
Primarily known as an actor and theater personality in Bengali and Hindi, Dhiraj Bhattacharya also wrote books including a two-part autobiography and a few short books like Jakhan Police Chilam, Jakhan Nayak Chilam, Mahua Milan, Sajano Bagan and Mon Nie Khela.
Pattukkottai Kalyanasundaram (1930–1959)
Pattukottai Kalyanasundaranar was an Indian poet and a popular Tamil lyricist best remembered for his lyrics for M. G. Ramachandran’s movies.
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