Paper Details

ABSTRACT: Munshi Premchand, one of India's most renowned writers, used his literary works to champion the cause of the marginalized. From addressing issues of gender inequality to highlighting the struggles of peasants and Dalits, Premchand’s writings give voice to those who were often silenced in Indian society. Through the analysis of select works such as Godan, Nirmala, and Kafan, this paper examines how Premchand’s stories addressed the social issues of his time. For instance, in Nirmala, Premchand sheds light on the prevalent issue of child marriage, which was a common practice in rural India. The novel draws attention to the subjugation of young girls and their loss of agency, which is often overshadowed by the idea of tradition and honour. Similarly, in Godan, Premchand delves into the inequities of the caste system that perpetuate the oppression of Dalits. He depicts the harsh reality of the lives of the subaltern, showing how they are at the mercy of the dominant castes. Moreover, through his portrayal of female characters, Premchand challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes. In his works, female characters are presented as complex individuals who have their own aspirations and desires. Overall, through his works, Premchand aimed to inspire social change by highlighting the injustices of Indian society. His writing acted as a form of commentary on the wrongdoings of power structures and his works continue to challenge readers to question their own social biases. Today, in the age of intersectionality and social justice movements, the relevance of Premchand’s writings is more important than ever. The issues that he addressed are still prevalent, and his works continue to inspire people to strive towards a more inclusive and equal society.

KEYWORDS: Social Issues, Rural India, Champion of Down- trodden, Source of Inspiration.