Renowned Hindi writer and poet Vinod Kumar Shukla has been named the winner of the 59th Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honour. After the announcement, the 87-year-old writer from Raipur, Chhattisgarh expressed gratitude and reflected on the responsibility that comes with the award.

“This is a big award in my life. It gives me a sense of responsibility,” said Mr. Shukla.

He is the first writer from Chhattisgarh and the 12th Hindi author to receive the prestigious Jnanpith Award.

About the Jnanpith Award

• Recognised as India’s top literary honour.

• Comes with a cash prize of ₹11 lakh, a bronze statue of Goddess Saraswati, and a citation.

• Mr. Shukla’s name was selected by the Jnanpith Selection Committee, chaired by Pratibha Ray, an eminent storyteller and past Jnanpith awardee.

Life and Literary Journey of Vinod Kumar Shukla

• Born in 1937 in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh.

• Started his writing career with his first poetry collection “Lagbhag Jaihind” in 1971.

• Has written several acclaimed poetry collections, including “Kavita Se Lambi Kavita.”

• His novels such as “Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi” and “Naukar Ki Kameez” received widespread praise.

  • “Naukar Ki Kameez” was even adapted into a film.

• Recipient of Sahitya Akademi Award and many other honours throughout his 50+ year literary career.

Reflecting on his writing journey, he said:

“I wanted to write a lot but could write very little. I saw, heard, and felt a lot, but could only express a fraction of it.”
He added that at his age, it was challenging to keep up with the speed of life.

FAQs about Vinod Kumar Shukla and the Jnanpith Award

Q1: Who is Vinod Kumar Shukla?

Vinod Kumar Shukla is a Hindi poet and novelist from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, known for his simple yet deep literary works. He has been awarded the 59th Jnanpith Award for his lifelong contribution to literature.

Q2: What is the Jnanpith Award?

The Jnanpith Award is India’s highest literary award, given annually for outstanding contributions to Indian literature. It includes a cash prize, a bronze idol of Saraswati, and a citation.

Q3: What are some famous works by Vinod Kumar Shukla?

• Poetry: Lagbhag Jaihind, Kavita Se Lambi Kavita

• Novels: Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi, Naukar Ki Kameez

Q4: Has Vinod Kumar Shukla received other awards?

Yes, he has also won the Sahitya Akademi Award and many other recognitions for his literary work.

Q5: When did Vinod Kumar Shukla begin his writing career?

He started his writing journey in 1971 with the publication of his first poetry collection, Lagbhag Jaihind.