2016 - Bhisham Sahni Birth Centenary | Unreleased Commemorative Coin

The Government of India, through the Press Information Bureau, issued a notification announcing the commemorative coin to mark the Birth Centenary of Bhisham Sahni. The PIB notification, dated May 19, 2015, confirmed the coin, but it was never released.

Bhisham Sahni was a towering figure in modern Indian literature, celebrated for his profound contributions as a novelist, short-story writer, playwright, translator, and thinker. Born on August 8, 1915, in Rawalpindi, he emerged as one of the most influential voices in Hindi literature, shaping its post-Independence identity through narratives rooted in human struggle, social consciousness, and moral questioning. His life was deeply intertwined with India’s cultural and political history, and his writings reflected an unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and compassion.

Sahni’s literary journey began against the backdrop of the freedom movement, the Partition, and the ideological churn of the mid-20th century. These defining moments profoundly shaped his worldview. He became associated with the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) and progressive literary movements, adopting a Marxist-humanist approach that emphasised the dignity of ordinary people. His writings consistently captured the complexities of relationships, the plight of the marginalized, and the contradictions within society.

His most celebrated work, Tamas, remains a landmark in Partition literature. Published in 1974, the novel offered a searing, empathetic account of the communal violence and human suffering during the Partition. Far from being a political commentary alone, Tamas stood out for its deeply humane portrayal of individuals caught in the whirlwind of hatred and chaos. The novel earned him the Sahitya Akademi Award and later reached an even wider audience through its acclaimed television adaptation.

Beyond Tamas, Sahni wrote prolifically across genres. His novels such as Basanti, Mayyadas Ki Madi, and Kadam Kadam Porle demonstrated his nuanced grasp of social themes and his ability to portray complex human emotions with simplicity and depth. His short stories, known for their sharp observation and subtle irony, formed an integral part of modern Hindi fiction. As a playwright, his works like Kabira Khada Bazaar Mein highlighted his ability to engage with historical and philosophical tales while addressing contemporary realities.

Bhisham Sahni also made invaluable contributions as a translator. His translations of international classics into Hindi helped expand the horizons of Hindi readership and fostered a global literary dialogue. As an educator, he served at various institutions, including Delhi University, shaping generations of students with his gentle intellect and humility.

His autobiography, Aaj Ke Ateet, provided insights into his life, influences, creative struggles, and ideological commitments. It revealed the depth of his experiences and the clarity with which he viewed the world. Over the years, Sahni received numerous honours, including the Padma Bhushan, in recognition of his literary achievements and cultural impact.

Bhisham Sahni passed away on July 11, 2003, leaving behind a legacy marked by empathy, realism, and an unwavering belief in humanity. His works continue to resonate deeply, offering timeless reflections on society, history, and the human condition. Through his enduring stories and characters, Sahni remains one of the most cherished and respected literary figures of modern India.