Bharatendu Harishchandra, often addressed as the father of modern Hindi literature and theatre, was born on September 9, 1850, in Varanasi, India. His real name was Harishchandra, and he adopted the pen name Bharatendu, which means “Moon of India.” He was an Indian poet, writer, and playwright. He wrote many dramas, biographies, and travel stories. He used various forms of media, including reports, publications, letters to editors, translations, and literary works, to influence public opinion. His literary journey began at a young age, and he quickly became a prolific writer, poet, and playwright, deeply influencing the trajectory of Hindi literature.
Bharatendu Harishchandra, known as a Yug Charan, was celebrated for his writings that highlighted the oppressive nature of British rule in India. Writing under the pen name “Rasa,” he chose themes that reflected the sufferings of the people, such as the country’s poverty, dependency, and harsh exploitation. He also addressed the struggles of the middle class and emphasized the urgent need for the nation’s progress.
As a fearless journalist, Harishchandra challenged the orthodox beliefs of his time. He exposed the manipulations of religious leaders like mahants, pandas, and priests, showing their deceitful practices. Moreover, he was a significant figure in promoting Hindu traditionalism, using Vaishnava devotionalism to create a unified Hindu religious identity.
This article explores the life and contributions of Bharatendu Harishchandra, a key figure in modern Hindi literature, highlighting his role as a “Yug Charan” for his works depicting socio-political issues during the British Raj. It delves into his writing style, themes, and cultural impact, emphasizing his efforts to revive Hindi and promote social justice.
Importance of His Contributions to Indian Literature
Bharatendu Harishchandra’s contributions to Indian literature are monumental. He played a pivotal role in the revival of Hindi as a literary language during a time when it was overshadowed by Persian and Urdu. His works encompassed a variety of genres, including drama, poetry, essays, and journalism, reflecting the socio-political issues of his time.
The term “Yug Charan” can be broken down into two Sanskrit words: “Yug,” meaning “age” or “era,” and “Charan,” meaning “bard” or “poet.” Therefore, “Yug Charan” translates to “the poet of the era.” This title is often bestowed upon a poet or writer who is seen as a voice of their time, someone whose works capture the spirit, struggles, and aspirations of the people in their era.
Bharatendu Harishchandra earned this title because his writings vividly depicted the socio-political issues and the plight of the common people during the British Raj. His works were not just literary pieces but also powerful commentaries on the injustices and exploitative practices of the colonial rulers. By addressing contemporary issues such as poverty, social unrest, and the need for progress, Bharatendu became a significant literary figure whose contributions went beyond literature to influence society and politics.
Key Points About Bharatendu as Yug Charan:
- Depicting British Exploitation: His writings highlighted the exploitative nature of the British Raj, showcasing the suffering and poverty of the people.
- Social Critique: He used his platform to challenge the prevailing social orthodoxies and the manipulations of religious leaders.
- Advocate for Progress: Bharatendu emphasized the need for the country’s progression, reflecting the urgent aspirations of the middle class and the broader population.
- Devotional Influence: He utilized Vaishnava devotionalism to promote a coherent Hindu religious identity, which further solidified his influence as a cultural and spiritual leader of his era.
- Fearless Journalism and Traditionalism: Bharatendu Harishchandra was known for his fearless journalism, challenging the orthodox beliefs of his time and exposing the manipulations of religious leaders such as mahants, pandas, and priests. As an influential Hindu traditionalist, he utilized Vaishnava devotionalism to define a coherent Hindu religion, advocating for a unified and progressive social structure.
Bharatendu’s role as a Yug Charan cemented his legacy as a writer who not only chronicled his times but also inspired future generations to strive for social justice and national progress. His fearless journalism and literary works remain a testament to his dedication to truth and reform.
Early Life and Background of Bharatendu Harishchandra
Birth and Family Background: Bharatendu Harishchandra was born on September 9, 1850, in Varanasi (also known as Benaras), a city known for its rich cultural and religious heritage. He was born into a well-to-do family; his father, Gopal Chandra, was a renowned poet, which provided Bharatendu with an early exposure to the literary world. He belonged to the Agrawal caste. His father and his ancestors were landlords in Bengal. Despite losing his parents at a young age, they left a significant influence on him.
Early Education and Influences: Harishchandra received his education at the East India Company School, where he was introduced to Western literature and ideas. However, his literary roots were deeply embedded in traditional Indian culture, thanks to the influence of his father and the intellectual environment at home. His early education combined both traditional Indian learning and Western literary influences, which shaped his future literary pursuits. In 1865, at the age of 15, Harishchandra travelled to the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Orissa, with his family. This trip had a profound impact on him. During the journey, he was deeply influenced by the Bengal Renaissance, which inspired him to translate social, historical, and Puranic plays and novels into Hindi. This influence was evident in his Hindi translation of the Bengali drama “Vidyasundar” in 1868.
Initial Exposure to Literature: From a young age, Bharatendu was exposed to the rich literary traditions of India. His father’s involvement in literature inspired him to pursue writing. He began writing poetry and plays during his school years. This initial exposure was pivotal in developing his literary skills and set the foundation for his prolific career.
Harishchandra’s literary journey was also influenced by the socio-political context of his time. Living under British colonial rule, he was acutely aware of the cultural and political dynamics, which became central themes in his writings later on. His works often reflected the struggle for Indian independence, social reforms, and the promotion of Hindi as a unifying language for Indians.
These early experiences and influences significantly shaped Bharatendu Harishchandra’s literary career, making him a revolutionary figure in modern Hindi literature.
Harishchandra’s initial exposure to literature was enriched by his family background and the intellectual environment he was part of. He wrote under the pseudonym “Girdhar Das” and was actively involved in editing several magazines, including “Kavi Vachan Sudha,” “Harishchandra Magazine,” “Harishchandra Patrika,” and “Bal Vodhini.” His efforts in literature and journalism were recognized in 1880 when scholars in Kashi honored him with the title “Bharatendu,” meaning “The moon of India,” for his contributions as a writer, patron, and modernizer.
Harishchandra was a proponent of Hindu traditionalism, using Vaishnava devotionalism to define a coherent Hindu religion. He advocated for the revival of Hindi and campaigned against the dominance of Urdu, promoting Hindi in courts and advocating for the ban on cow slaughter. His cultural and nationalist activities included organizing petitions, like the one presented to Lord Lytton with 60,000 signatories, which earned him the title “Vir Vaishnava.”
Overall, Bharatendu Harishchandra’s early life was marked by a blend of traditional influences and a forward-thinking approach to literature and social issues, laying the foundation for his significant impact on modern Hindi literature.
Literary Contributions to Hindi Literature and Drama
Bharatendu Harishchandra made significant contributions in modernizing to Hindi literature and drama. He is famous for his plays, poems, and essays that highlighted social and political issues of his time and focusing on themes like social justice, national pride, and the struggles of the common people. He is credited with the use of theatre as a medium to shape public opinion and foster social change.
His innovative use of language and style marked a new era in Hindi literature, blending traditional themes with contemporary concerns.
Innovations in Language and Style: Harishchandra’s writing style was marked by its simplicity and clarity, making literature more accessible. He wrote in Khari Boli Hindi, which later evolved into the modern standard Hindi. By integrating Vaishnava devotional themes, he helped to define a cohesive Hindu identity while promoting Hindi as a literary language.
Examples of Bharatendu Harishchandra’s Poetry
Prem Prem Sab Hi Kahat: “प्रेम प्रेम सब ही कहत प्रेम न जान्यौ कोय। जो पै जानहि प्रेम तो मरै जगत क्यों रोय॥”
This doha (couplet) reflects on the true understanding of love, suggesting that while everyone speaks of love, few truly comprehend its depth. If one truly understood love, the sorrows of the world would cease to exist.
Lok-Laj Ki Ganthari: “लोक-लाज की गांठरी पहिले देइ डुबाय। प्रेम-सरोवर पंथ में पाछें राखै पाय॥”
This doha highlights the conflict between societal norms and true love. It suggests that one must first discard the burden of social expectations to truly embrace the path of love.
Prem Sakal Shruti-Sar: “प्रेम सकल श्रुति-सार है प्रेम सकल स्मृति-मूल। प्रेम पुरान-प्रमाण है कोउ न प्रेम के तूल॥”
This couplet emphasizes that love is the essence of all scriptures and the foundation of all memories. It stands as the ultimate authority, incomparable to anything else.
Major Plays by Bharatendu Harishchandra
- Vaidika Himsa Na Bhavati (1873): “Vaidika Himsa Na Bhavati” translates to “Vedic Violence is Not Justified.” This play critiques the misuse of Vedic rituals for personal gain and highlights the ethical teachings of the Vedas. Harishchandra uses this play to argue against the justification of violence in the name of religion.
- Satya Harishchandra (1876): A dramatic retelling of the story of King Harishchandra, known for his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, even in the face of immense personal suffering. “Satya Harishchandra” is based on the legendary king Harishchandra, known for his unwavering commitment to truth and justice. The play narrates the trials and tribulations faced by the king, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity. This work reflects Harishchandra’s own values and serves as a moral lesson to his audience.
- Bharat Durdasha (1875): “Bharat Durdasha,” which means “The Wretched State of India,” is an assessment of the socio-political conditions under British rule. The patriotic play depicts the suffering of the Indian people due to colonial exploitation and calls for national awakening and self-reliance. It also highlighting the dire conditions of India under British rule, calling for unity and resilience among Indians.
- Niladevi (1881): “Niladevi” is a historical drama that tells the story of a princess and her struggle of Niladevi against oppressive forces. The play combines elements of romance, valor, and patriotism, highlighting the role of women in the freedom struggle and their contribution to the nation’s heritage
- Andher Nagari (1881), City of Darkness: One of Harishchandra’s most popular plays, “Andher Nagari” is a satirical commentary on the political and social corruption of the time. It remains a significant work in modern Hindi drama and has been translated and performed in many Indian languages. “Andher Nagari,” or “City of Darkness,” is a political satire that critiques the corrupt and unjust governance system. The play portrays a city where the laws are arbitrary, and the rulers are whimsical, leading to chaos and suffering for the common people. This work has been translated and performed in many Indian languages by notable directors like B. V. Karanth, Prasanna, Arvind Gaur, and Sanjay Upadhyaya.
These examples and summaries illustrate Harishchandra’s impact on Hindi literature and drama, showcasing his innovative use of language and his ability to address contemporary social issues through his works. Harishchandra’s plays were helpful in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of national identity. His works continue to be celebrated for their literary excellence and social relevance.
Writing Style of Bharatendu Harishchandra
Use of Simple and Accessible Language: Bharatendu Harishchandra was known for his use of simple and accessible language, which made his works widely popular among the common people. He wrote in Khari Boli, a dialect of Hindi that was easy to understand, which played a crucial role in shaping modern standard Hindi. His straightforward language allowed his works to resonate with a broad audience, enabling them to engage with social, political, and cultural issues of the time.
Writing Primarily in Hindi: Harishchandra was a loyal promoter for the use of Hindi in literature and journalism. At a time when Urdu and Persian were dominant in Northern India, he promoted Hindi as a literary language. He believed that Hindi was the language of the masses and should be used to convey important ideas and messages. His commitment to writing in Hindi helped to establish it as a significant language in Indian literature.
Incorporation of Satire and Humor: Bharatendu Harishchandra skilfully used satire and humour to critique social norms, political corruption, and the British colonial rule. His play “Andher Nagari” is a prime example of his use of satire, where he depicted the absurdities of a corrupt and incompetent government. By blending humor with serious themes, he was able to address complex issues in an engaging and thought-provoking manner, making his works not only entertaining but also socially relevant.
Blend of Traditional and Modern Elements: Harishchandra’s writing was a blend of traditional Indian themes and modern ideas. While he often drew inspiration from Hindu mythology and religious texts, he also incorporated contemporary issues like social justice, national pride, and the struggles of the common people. This fusion of the old and the new allowed him to connect with both conservative and progressive audiences, making his works a bridge between tradition and modernity.
Vivid Descriptions and Character Development: In his literary works, Harishchandra was known for his vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. He had a unique ability to bring scenes and characters to life through his detailed and expressive language. His characters often embodied the virtues or vices he wanted to highlight, making them memorable and impactful. Whether portraying the moral dilemmas of a king or the plight of the common people, his characters were always portrayed with depth and nuance, adding richness to his storytelling.
Bharatendu Harishchandra’s writing style, with its simplicity, humour, and blend of traditional and modern elements, made a lasting impact on Hindi literature and continues to be celebrated for its contribution to the cultural and literary heritage of India.
Through his innovative use of Hindi, he not only restored the language but also created a platform for addressing pressing social and political issues. His works, characterized by a blend of traditional and modern themes, provided a voice for the common people and challenged the status quo. Harishchandra’s ability to weave satire, humor, and vivid storytelling into his writings made his contributions timeless, influencing generations of writers and readers alike. As a visionary, he recognized the power of literature as a tool for social change and used it to shape public opinion, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate in modern times. His efforts laid the foundation for the evolution of Hindi literature, earning him a place among the most respected literary figures in Indian history.
