

Mahasweta Devi
1950s–2015
'A trailblazing Bengali writer and activist, she used literature as a weapon against injustice, chronicling the struggles of the poor and marginalized.'
Books by Mahasweta Devi
Activism, Feminist Literature, Short Stories
Bengali
India
Voice of the oppressed and the marginalized.
About the Author
Mahasweta Devi was an iconic Indian writer and social activist whose works transcended literature to become a call for justice. Born in 1926, she authored over 100 novels and short story collections that focused on the struggles of India’s marginalized communities, particularly tribal populations. Her celebrated works, including Hajar Churashir Maa and Rudali, stand as powerful critiques of systemic exploitation and social inequities. Beyond writing, Mahasweta Devi devoted her life to activism, tirelessly working for the rights of tribal communities in West Bengal and beyond. She used storytelling not only as an art form but also as a tool of resistance, shining light on voices that mainstream society often ignored. Her fearless commitment earned her numerous honors including the Jnanpith Award, Ramon Magsaysay Award, and Padma Vibhushan. Mahasweta Devi remains a towering figure in Indian literature and activism, remembered for her courage, compassion, and the way she turned literature into a vehicle of empowerment for the voiceless.





