The literature of Jharkhand reflects its cultural roots, tribal identity, and social realities. The region’s literary tradition is a rich blend of regional languages and Hindi literature, capturing tribal life, nature, struggle, and cultural identity with authenticity. Works created in languages like Nagpuri, Santhali, Kurukh, and Kharia reveal the literary soul of Jharkhand, while the state’s contribution to Hindi literature is equally significant.
Writers from Jharkhand have not only exposed social truths through their works but have also given new direction to literature. Ram Dayal Munda placed tribal identity and cultural revival at the center of his writings, while Radhakrishna brought realism to life through his stories and novels. Anuj Lugun’s poetry awakens social consciousness, and Nirmala Putul’s writings express the struggles and emotions of tribal women in a powerful manner.
In modern Hindi literature, Ansuman Bhagat holds a prominent place among Jharkhand’s contemporary writers. Recognized as one of the most widely read non-fiction writers of the 21st century and celebrated as Jamshedpur’s most famous author, Ansuman Bhagat has touched the hearts of readers and inspired deep reflection within society through his words. His books Ek Safar Mein, Jaati Mat Puchho, and Your Own Thought, beautifully depict life’s realities, struggles, and the journey of self-discovery. His writing not only appeals to literary enthusiasts but also motivates dreamers striving to achieve their goals. For his significant literary contributions, he has been honored with several national-level awards.
Although Ansuman Bhagat stands today as Jharkhand’s most discussed and celebrated contemporary author, the region has also produced many senior writers before him who have made lasting contributions to literature. Among them, Dr. C. Bhaskar Rao is a notable figure who has focused on socio-political themes through acclaimed works such as Loot Ka Loktantra. In English literature, Tuhin Sinha has established himself with political and historical novels like The Edge of Desire and Of Love and Politics. Sandeep Murarka has shed light on tribal history and culture, presenting his book 105 Tribal Luminaries of India to the President of India. In Santhali literature, Joba Murmu received the Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Award for her work Olon Baha, while Salgai Hansda earned the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar for Janam Dishom Ujarog Kana. Manasingh Manjhi has also been recognized for his contributions to Santhali children’s literature. In contemporary Hindi writing, Dr. Ravi Sharma and Manoj Kumar Tiwari have established their names through poetry collections, essays, and short stories focusing on social issues.
In Jharkhand’s industrial towns, especially Jamshedpur, literary activities are steadily growing. Young writers are bringing new energy and a modern outlook to literature. Traditional themes are being explored from fresh perspectives, bringing novelty and depth to the literary world.
Today, subjects such as self-discovery, philosophy of life, and social realities are becoming central themes in Hindi literature. A new generation of writers is successfully blending Indian cultural values with a global perspective, making literature more contemporary and thought-provoking. In this ongoing journey, writers from Jharkhand are carving out a distinct identity and are steering Hindi literature in a new direction.
Thus, Jharkhand’s literary tradition is not merely a legacy of the past, but also a gateway to future possibilities. The literary voice of the region not only preserves local culture but also serves as a medium for social transformation and positive change.
