Veteran Hindi writer Vinod Kumar Shukla, celebrated for his unique narrative style that infused poetry into ordinary moments, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 89. He breathed his last at AIIMS Raipur, where he had been receiving treatment for age-related health issues and respiratory complications, his family confirmed.
Shukla’s health had been fragile for some time. He was admitted to AIIMS earlier in December with breathing difficulties, after similar treatment at a private hospital in October. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter, who remember him as a quiet, thoughtful presence whose words spoke volumes.
Born in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, Shukla became one of modern Hindi literature’s most distinctive voices. Known for his simple yet profound storytelling, his novels and collections—including Naukar Ki Kameez, Khilega To Dekhenge, Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi, and Ek Chuppi Jagah—offered readers a lens into the human experience, turning everyday life into moments of reflection and wonder.
In 2025, he was honoured with the 59th Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary recognition, becoming the first writer from Chhattisgarh to receive it. The award highlighted his extraordinary contribution to Hindi letters and his talent for blending subtle humour, empathy, and poetic sensibility.
Shukla’s work also reached the silver screen; his novel Naukar Ki Kameez was adapted into a film by filmmaker Mani Kaul, bringing his gentle, introspective narratives to new audiences.
Writers, readers, and public figures across the country have expressed their grief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted Shukla’s enduring contribution to Hindi literature, saying his work will continue to inspire generations.
Vinod Kumar Shukla’s passing marks the loss of a literary luminary whose stories transformed the ordinary into something extraordinary, leaving behind a legacy of empathy, simplicity, and timeless reflection.
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