Premchand birth anniversary: Revisiting some of his most celebrated works

Godan

In 1963, the novel was adapted into a film.  (Source: Flipkart)

Much like other Premchand novels, Godan (The Gift of a Cow) highlights the plights of the working class, primarily the deplorable working conditions of the villagers during the British era. In 1963, the novel was adapted into a film starring Rajkumar, Mehmood and Shashikala.

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Shatranj ke Khiladi

Satyajit Ray adapted this into a film in 1977. (Source: Amazon.in)

This 1924 short story traces the life of the last independent ruler, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, and ends with the British taking over the Nawab’s kingdom of Awadh in 1856. Satyajit Ray adapted it into a film in 1977.

Gaban

The novel is a necessary read. (Source: Amazon.in)

This 1931 novel presents a compelling portrait of the lower middle class, their failing moral values and their aspirations to belong among the rich and the elite, spiralling into a complete downfall in the process.

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Pratigya

It focuses on the issue of widow remarriage. (Source: Amazon.in)

Translated as The Vow, in this novel, Premchand focuses on the issue of widow remarriage. It is not only an engaging read but also an important text to understand the societal politics of that time.