New Delhi: Vinod Kumar Shukla, one of the most celebrated names in Hindi literature, has been selected for the prestigious 59th Jnanpith Award for 2024. The recognition honours his exceptional literary contribution, marked by his innovative style and deep sensitivity towards the human experience.
Shukla, who is the 12th Hindi writer to receive this esteemed accolade, makes history as the first writer from Chhattisgarh to achieve this prestigious distinction. The decision to award him the Jnanpith was announced during a meeting of the Jnanpith Pravar Parishad, led by eminent author and Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray. The members of the council, including Madhav Kaushik, Damodar Mavji, Prabha Verma, Dr. Anamika, Dr. A. Krishna Rao, Prafull Shiledar, Dr. Janaki Prasad Sharma, and Jnanpith Director Madhusudan Anand, unanimously endorsed the choice.
Born in January 1937, Shukla has built a lasting legacy with his simple yet evocative language, his ability to delve into the complexities of everyday life, and his experimental approach to narrative. His first poetry collection, Lagbhag Jai Hind, published in 1971, introduced his distinct voice, which would later shape works like Naukar Ki Kameez, Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi, and Khilega To Dekhenge. His writing is celebrated for its exploration of the common man’s emotions and the subtle intricacies of society.
Shukla’s contributions have earned him a range of prestigious awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, highlighting his impact on Hindi literature. His works, often poignant and introspective, reflect the everyday struggles and triumphs of the human spirit.
The Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary recognition, comes with a cash prize of Rs 11 lakh, a bronze statue of Vaagdevi, and a citation. Shukla’s selection underscores his outstanding influence on Hindi literature, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to enriching the language and shaping its literary landscape.