New Delhi, August 9: Shivpujan Sahay, born on August 9, 1893, in Unwans village of Bhojpur district, is celebrated as a significant figure in Hindi literature and journalism. Initially named Bholanath, Sahay’s journey began after completing his 10th grade, working as a copyist in a court in Varanasi. His career transitioned through teaching, independent journalism, and literary editing, ultimately dedicating his life to the service of literature.
During the Non-Cooperation Movement, he resigned from his government job, marking a pivotal moment in his life where he chose literature as his purpose. His early career involved ordinary jobs and teaching, but the political climate of the time shifted his focus towards literary journalism.
In 1921, Sahay moved to Kolkata and took on the role of editor for ‘Marwari Sudhar’. By 1923, he was editing ‘Matwala’, expanding his editorial influence through various publications. In 1924, he relocated to Lucknow, where he worked with the magazine ‘Madhuri’ and collaborated with the renowned writer Premchand, contributing to his notable works like ‘Rangbhoomi’.
Sahay’s editorial work was extensive, having edited several significant literary journals including ‘Samnvay’, ‘Mauji’, and ‘Golmaal’. In 1932, he joined the literary fortnightly ‘Jagran’, where he again worked alongside Premchand. His literary involvement in Varanasi was not limited to publications; he was an active member of various literary societies, solidifying his role in the literary community.
In 1935, he moved to Laheriya Sarai, Darbhanga, where he edited the magazine ‘Balak’. By 1939, he was appointed as a Hindi professor at Rajendra College, Chapra, embodying multiple roles as a writer, editor, journalist, and educator.
A significant chapter in Sahay’s life began in 1950 when he was appointed secretary of the Bihar Rashtrabhasha Parishad. During his tenure, he edited and published over 50 reference works in Hindi. He later became the director of the council and compiled a literary history titled ‘Hindi Sahitya Aur Bihar’, emphasizing the systematic preservation and publication of Hindi literature.
Sahay’s literary contributions extend beyond editing; he was also a renowned storyteller and novelist. His notable works include ‘Dehati Duniya’, ‘Mahila-Mahatva’, ‘Vibhuti’, and ‘Mata Ka Aanchal’. His editorial scope was vast, having edited significant texts like ‘Dwiwedi Abhinandan Granth’ and ‘Ayodhya Prasad Khatri Smarak Granth’.
His literary legacy was recognized nationally when he was awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India in 1960. Sahay’s life reflects a journey of a literary personality who embraced various roles, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Hindi literature.
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P.S.K./A.B.M
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