“Qanūn kī Bastī” by Sheen Muzaffarpuri (1920 – 1996)
Translated by Syed Kashif
Abstract:
Sheen Muzaffarpuri started writing fiction at a time that was a significant phase in fiction writing in Bihar. Several great writers like Mohsin Azimabadi, Sohail Azimabadi, Akhtar Aurenvi, Shakila Akhtar were writing during his time. Sheen Muzaffarpuri also succeeded in registering his presence. As early as 1946 his first book Awārāgard ke Khutūt was published; and thereafter he never stopped. The Progressive Movement was at its peak when Sheen Muzaffarpuri started writing. However, it is significant to note that he did not confine himself to any movement or any faction. In “Qanūn kī Bastī” Sheen Muzaffarpuri has very brilliantly highlighted the failure or malfunction of the modern nation-state. He has also exposed the evils of civilized society. It is significant to note that the age we are living in is that of modern nation-state which came into existence largely on the basis of philosophies of liberty and equality. In accordance with the theory propounded by John Lock, people have surrendered their natural rights to the state so that it can protect them in times of danger and ensure that their natural rights—liberty and equality—are preserved. However, Muzaffarpuri’s story highlights that the modern nation-state has largely failed in discharging its duty. Capitalism has overwhelmed the state and resultantly people have been rendered powerless at the mercy of powerful.
Works cited
Muzaffarpuri, Sheen. Raqs-e- Bismil. The Art Press, Sultan Ganj, Patna, 1993.
Quadri, Dr Syed Ahmad (ed.). Sheen Muzaffarpuri: Shakhs Aur Aks. Maktaba Ghausia, Gaya, 2011.
Raza, Dr Hasan. Sheen Muzaffarpuri: Shakhsiyat Aur Fan. Alminar Publications, Ranchi, 2002.
Pervez, Athar. Hamāre Pasandīda Afsāne. Educational Publishing House, Aligarh, 1997
“Qanūn kī Bastī” by Sheen Muzaffarpuri (1920 – 1996) by Syed Kashif is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0
