MANDI: Dr Ganga Ram Raji, an eminent Hindi novelist, storyteller, poet and dramatist from Sundernagar sub-division in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, holds the distinction of being the most prolific novelist in the state.
At 80 years of age, Dr Raji has authored 17 acclaimed novels, many of which are rooted in the rich historical and cultural heritage of Himachal’s hill regions, especially Mandi district.
With a remarkable ability to breathe life into historical characters, Dr Raji’s work stands as a bridge between the past and present, blending literary finesse with historical insight. His novels have become symbolic chronicles of the land and its people.
Chronicler of Himachal’s forgotten heroes
Among his historical novels are Ek Thi Rani Khairagadhi; Sindh Ka Gandhi: A Warrior of the Freedom Struggle; Lomharshak Raja Siddh Sen and Bomb Master Bhai Hirda Ram, all focused on Mandi’s legacy.
Another celebrated novel, Mero Dard Na Janey Koy, highlights stories from Kangra district. His historical fiction General Zorawar Singh Kahluria celebrates the legendary general who played a pivotal role across Himachal, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.
Teacher-turned-literary luminary
Born in Baggi village in Mandi district, Dr Raji pursued higher education with degrees in MA, MPhil, BEd and a PhD in Hindi.
After serving as an Associate Professor in Hindi at the Government Sanskrit College, Sundernagar, he retired and devoted himself to full-time writing.
Despite having lived in metropolitan Mumbai, his writings remain deeply rooted in the ethos of Himachal’s soil.
Voice of emotion, resistance and hope
Dr Raji’s writing reflects sensitivity, social consciousness and the human condition.
With elements of satire, struggle, love and realism, his narratives resonate deeply with readers. His use of regional dialects and everyday language lends authenticity and relatability to his storytelling.
Dr Raji has received numerous literary honors, including:
• Himachal Pradesh Academy Award (for fiction)
• Sahitya Shiromani Saraswat Award (by Bharatiya Vangmay Peeth, Kolkata)
• Urdu Academy Award (Lucknow, for Urdu translation of “Bhairon Kabhi Nahin Mara”)
• Vyangya Yatra Samman (Delhi)
• Dr Kumud Tikku Story Award (Jaipur)
• Pratibha Pushp Samman (USA)
• Gaurav Himachal Excellence Award (Divya Himachal)
• Rotary Club Honour (2022)
• Lok Katha Ratna Award (India Netbooks, 2023)
• Dr Parmar National Literary Award (2023)
Seventeen novels that define his legacy
His widely acclaimed novels include “Man Manthan”, “Bhairon Kabhi Nahin Mara”, “Geeta Bol Rahi Hoon”, “Chhali Gayi Menka”, “Dil Ne Phir Yaad Kiya”, “Guru Ghantal” and “Dakhiya Daak Laya”. “Bhairon Kabhi Nahin Mara” has also been translated into Urdu, while several of his novels and stories have been adapted for stage performances.
Over 400 stories in 32 collections
Dr Raji has penned more than 400 short stories, compiled into 32 published collections, including “Yugon Purana Sangeet”, “Paanch Bigha Zameen”, “Corona Kaal Ki Kahaniyaan”, “Main Uski Aankh Ka Tara Tha”, “Chak De India”, “Zindagi Kaisi Hai Paheli” and “Saarthi”.
Munish Sood
