Vinod Kumar Shukla, Jnanpith Award Winning Hindi Writer, Dies at 89, Leaves Enduring Literary Legacy

Eminent Hindi writer Vinod Kumar Shukla from Chhattisgarh passed away on Tuesday evening at the age of 89, his family told news agency PTI, citing age-related ailments. Shukla was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur on December 2 after experiencing difficulty in breathing.The acclaimed writer received the 59th Jnanpith Award in 2024, becoming the first author from Chhattisgarh to be honoured with India’s highest literary award.He is survived by his wife, a son, Shashwat, and a daughter. Shashwat told PTI that his father had also been admitted to a private hospital in October, but was discharged after his condition improved. However, his health deteriorated on 2 December and he was admitted to AIIMS Raipur for

further medical care.According to the family, his mortal remains will be taken to his residence in Raipur, with details of the last rites to be announced shortly. Vinod Kumar Shukla, widely regarded as one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Hindi literature, was celebrated for his subtle yet profoundly impactful prose. Known for its simplicity, quiet introspection and emotional depth, his writing carved out a unique space in Hindi literature, earning him both critical acclaim and a devoted readership.Some of his most celebrated works include novels like Naukar Ki Kameez, Khilega To Dekhenge, Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi, and Ek Chuppi Jagah. His fiction frequently delved into the inner worlds of ordinary people, employing minimalistic language to convey intricate emotional and social truths.