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Scholar, Writer, and Pioneer of Hindi Literature
Hazari Prasad Dwivedi was one of the most respected scholars of Hindi literature, known for his deep research, literary criticism, essays, and novels. He played a major role in interpreting Hindi literature through the broader traditions of Indian thought and classical languages.
Born in Ballia District, he became a leading intellectual figure whose writings continue to influence students, scholars, and readers.
Early Life and Education
Following his family tradition, Hazari Prasad Dwivedi received his early education in Sanskrit.
In 1930, he passed:
- Intermediate Examination
- Acharya Examination in Astrology
from Banaras Hindu University.
His strong grounding in Sanskrit learning later shaped his literary scholarship.
Association with Visva-Bharati and Rabindranath Tagore
From 1940 to 1950, he served as Director of Hindi Bhavan at Visva-Bharati University.
During his stay at Santiniketan, he came into close contact with Rabindranath Tagore.
Tagore’s humanistic philosophy deeply influenced Dwivedi’s worldview, especially his faith in the dignity and spirit of humanity.
Academic and Public Roles
Hazari Prasad Dwivedi held several important academic and national positions:
- Member of the first Official Language Commission of India (1955)
- Awarded Padma Bhushan in 1957
- Professor and Head, Hindi Department, Panjab University (from 1960)
- Rector of Banaras Hindu University
- Chairman of Uttar Pradesh Hindi Academy
Contribution to Hindi Literature
Hazari Prasad Dwivedi analyzed Hindi literature in the context of:
- Sanskrit literature
- Pali literature
- Prakrit literature
- Apabhramsha literature
- Composite Indian cultural thought
He believed great literature must uphold human values and serve humanity rather than remain limited to elite tastes.
One of his central ideas was:
Human beings are the goal of all human activity, including literature.
Important Literary Works
Hindi Sahitya Ki Bhumika
Hindi Sahitya Ki Bhumika is considered one of his most significant works. It reflects his literary principles and interpretative method.
Hindi Sahitya Ka Adikal
His four lectures compiled as Hindi Sahitya Ka Adikal reinterpreted new discoveries and research, encouraging a fresh study of Hindi literary history.
Banabhatta Ki Atmakatha
Banabhatta Ki Atmakatha is one of his most celebrated prose works.
It was followed by other noted literary creations such as:
- Punarnava
- Charuchandralekh
- Anamdas Ka Potha
These works are known for their elegant prose, rich description, and historical imagination.
Awards and Recognition
In 1973, he received the Sahitya Akademi annual prize for his essay collection:
- Alok Parva
Legacy
Hazari Prasad Dwivedi is remembered as a visionary thinker who connected literature with culture, philosophy, and humanity.
His scholarship modernized Hindi literary criticism while preserving links with India’s classical traditions.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
The Department of Posts released a special commemorative stamp on the birth anniversary of Hazari Prasad Dwivedi to honor his outstanding contribution to Hindi literature and Indian intellectual life.
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