The Manoj Das Biography of Manoj Das, a renowned Indian author, is a testament to his remarkable journey from a small coastal village to becoming one of the most celebrated authors in India. Born on February 27, 1934, in the small coastal village of Shankari in Bhograi, Balasore district of Odisha, India, Manoj Das grew up amidst loving rural folks and Nature’s splendours but also had the horrific experience of a devastating cyclone followed by famine crushing his locality.
At the age of eight, he stood witness to his affluent home on the sea being plundered by savage gangs of bandits, not once but twice. This early exposure to the harsh realities of life had a profound impact on his worldview and shaped his writing style.
Personal Information
| Name | Manoj Das |
| Birth Date | February 27, 1934 |
| Birth Place | Shankari, Bhograi, Balasore district, Odisha, India |
| Family | Married to Pratijna Devi, a member of the Raj family of Kujang |
| Education | Studied English Literature and Law at Cuttack College, finished graduation from Samanta Chandra Shekhar College, Puri in 1955 |
| Occupation | Author, Professor of English Literature at Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education, Puducherry |
| Death Date | April 27, 2021 |
| Age at Death | 87 |
Personal Life
Manoj Das was married to Pratijna Devi, a member of the Raj family of Kujang, whose parents were renowned freedom fighters. His wife, Pratijna, was a significant influence on his life and work, and they were a devoted couple who spent their lives together at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry. The couple’s relationship was built on mutual respect and understanding, which was reflected in their literary collaborations and joint projects. Manoj Das’s personal life was marked by a deep sense of spirituality and a strong connection to his roots.
Early Life
Manoj Das started writing early. His first work, a book of poetry in Odia, Satavdira Artanada, was published in 1949 when he was in high school. He launched a literary magazine, Diganta, in 1950. He graduated high school in 1951. His first collection of short stories, Samudrara Kshudha (Hunger of Sea), was published in the same year. He was active in student politics while studying BA at Cuttack College.
He was a youth leader with radical views in his college days and spent a year in jail for his revolutionary activities. In 1959, he was a delegate to the Afro-Asian students’ conference at Bandung, Indonesia. He did not complete his degree in Cuttack. He ultimately finished his graduation from Samanta Chandra Shekhar College, Puri in 1955. During his college years, he kept on writing and published a novel Jeebanara Swada, a collection of short stories Vishakanyar Kahani and a collection of poems Padadhawani. His early works showcased his versatility and talent for storytelling.
Literary Career Beginnings
Manoj Das’s literary career began with the publication of his first book of poetry, Satavdira Artanada, in 1949. He continued to write and publish works throughout his life, including novels, short stories, and poetry collections. His early works were published in Odia, and he later transitioned to writing in English. He was a prolific writer and published numerous works, including Shesha Basantara Chithi in 1966, Manoj Dasanka Katha O Kahani in 1971, and Dhumabha Diganta in 1971. His literary career spanned over six decades, during which he wrote extensively on themes of love, loss, and the human condition.
Achievements and Awards
Manoj Das received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and education. Some of his notable awards include the Saraswati Samman in 2000, Padma Shri in 2001, and Padma Bhushan in 2020. He was also awarded the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship in 2006 and the Atibadi Jagannath Das award in 2007. He was recognized for his literary contributions by various organizations and institutions, including the Kendra Sahitya Akademi, the Odisha Sahitya Academy, and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. These accolades are a testament to his enduring impact on Indian literature.
Major Works and Contributions
Manoj Das’s works are known for their depth and insight into human nature and the human condition. His stories often explored themes of love, loss, and the struggle for survival. Some of his notable works include The Crocodiles Lady, The Submerged Valley and Other Stories, Farewell to a Ghost, and Cyclones. He was also a prolific editor and columnist, writing for various newspapers and magazines, including The Times of India, The Hindustan Times, and The Hindu. His contributions to literature and education are a lasting tribute to his life and work.
Literary Influence and Impact
Manoj Das was widely recognized and respected for his literary contributions. His works were translated into several languages and were widely read and appreciated. He was known for his unique style, which blended elements of Odia and English literature. His works were often compared to those of other renowned authors, such as Graham Greene and R.K. Narayan. His influence extended beyond the literary world, as he was also a respected figure in education and social activism.
Later Years and Legacy
Manoj Das continued to write and publish works throughout his life. He was a respected figure in Indian literature and was known for his contributions to the field of education. He was given a State funeral due to his universal appeal and acceptability. His legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of writers and readers. Manoj Das Biography highlights his remarkable journey from a small coastal village to becoming one of the most celebrated authors in India, known for his mastery of both Odia and English languages. Manoj Das Biography is a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian literature.
Conclusion Of Manoj Das Biography
Manoj Das was a remarkable author who left an indelible mark on Indian literature. His works continue to be widely read and appreciated, and his legacy serves as a testament to his dedication and passion for writing. His contributions to literature and education are a lasting tribute to his life and work. Manoj Das Biography highlights his remarkable journey from a small coastal village to becoming one of the most celebrated authors in India, known for his mastery of both Odia and English languages. Manoj Das Biography is a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian literature.
FAQ
Who was Manoj Das?
Manoj Das was a renowned Indian author who wrote in both Odia and English. He was known for his mastery of both languages and his unique storytelling style.
Where was Manoj Das born?
Manoj Das was born in the small coastal village of Shankari in Bhograi, Balasore district of Odisha, India.
What was Manoj Das’s early life like?
Manoj Das grew up in a remote hamlet of coastal Odisha. He had a humble upbringing and was influenced by the natural surroundings and the stories of his village.
What was Manoj Das’s educational background?
Manoj Das studied English Literature and Law at Cuttack College. He did not complete his degree in Cuttack but finished his graduation from Samanta Chandra Shekhar College, Puri in 1955.
What were Manoj Das’s notable works?
Manoj Das wrote numerous works, including novels, short stories, and poetry collections. Some of his notable works include The Crocodiles Lady, The Submerged Valley and Other Stories, Farewell to a Ghost, and Cyclones.
What awards did Manoj Das receive?
Manoj Das received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and education. Some of his notable awards include the Saraswati Samman in 2000, Padma Shri in 2001, and Padma Bhushan in 2020.
What was Manoj Das’s role in Sri Aurobindo Ashram?
Manoj Das joined Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry in 1963 and became a professor of English Literature at Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education, Puducherry.
What was Manoj Das’s legacy?
Manoj Das left a lasting legacy in Indian literature and education. He was a respected figure known for his unique storytelling style and his contributions to the field of literature and education.
How did Manoj Das pass away?
Manoj Das passed away on April 27, 2021, at the age of 87.
What is Manoj Das’s biography?
Manoj Das’s biography highlights his remarkable journey from a small coastal village to becoming one of the most celebrated authors in India, known for his mastery of both Odia and English languages. Manoj Das Biography is a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian literature.
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