Lucknow I March 20, 2025 – The city of Lucknow came alive today with a grand event commemorating the birth centenary of renowned Hindi writer Shrilal Shukla, organised by the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative . Held at the Jupiter Auditorium in the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, the celebration honoured a literary giant whose works, particularly the satirical masterpiece Raag Darbari, have left an enduring legacy in Indian literature.
The event commenced at 10:30 AM with Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha as the chief guest. LG Manoj Sinha inaugurated a picture and book exhibition showcasing Shukla’s life and contributions, emphasising the writer’s profound ability to illuminate societal truths through humor and insight. “Shrilal Shukla’s words are a light on the path, reflecting the wisdom of existence and the pulse of everyday life,” Sinha remarked during his address.
Shukla, born a century ago, is celebrated for his unparalleled contribution to Hindi literature. His iconic novel Raag Darbari, set in rural India, masterfully blends satire with a deep understanding of human nature, earning it a permanent place in the nation’s cultural consciousness. The centenary event drew luminaries from literature, cinema, politics, and media, all gathered to pay tribute to a writer whose voice remains timeless.
Organizers highlighted the day-long program as a fitting tribute to Shukla’s legacy, noting his rare ability to distill life’s mysteries into narratives that resonate across generations. The exhibition featured rare manuscripts, photographs, and editions of his works, offering attendees a glimpse into the mind of a literary visionary.
The celebration underscored Shukla’s significance as a chronicler of Indian society, with Raag Darbari continuing to inspire readers and writers alike. As one attendee put it, “His writing is not just literature—it’s a mirror to our world, reflecting both its absurdities and its truths.”
The event concluded with a call to preserve and promote Shukla’s works, ensuring that his wisdom and wit continue to guide future generations. For many, today was not just a celebration of a writer, but a reaffirmation of the power of literature to shape thought and society.