Lakhmi Khilani
Lakhmi Khilani was born on 2 October 1935 in Sukkur, Sind [Pakistan], and holds a B.Sc. in Engineering. After retiring from business, he continued his active engagement with Sindhi culture as Deputy Director of the Indian Institute of Sindhology, Adipur [Kutch], where he resides.
A prominent Sindhi writer, he has made substantial contributions to short stories, novels, and drama, with several notable works to his credit. His acclaimed play Wari-a-Sando Kot, portraying the nostalgia and struggles of Sindhi migrants, has been staged and widely appreciated. He also played a historic role in founding the Sindhi Youth Association in Calcutta and was instrumental in establishing the Indian Institute of Sindhology, besides editing and publishing its quarterly magazine Rachna.
Key Facts
- Birth Date: 2-10-1935
- Place of Birth: Sukkur Sind (Pakistan)
- Academic Attainments: B.Sc. (Engg.)
- Permanent Address: Adipur, Kutch, India
- Occupation: Retired businessman. At present Deputy Director, Indian Institute Sindhology, Adipur (Kutch)
Significant Literary Achievements / Contributions
As Writer:
Lakhmi has several publications to his credit. A few most significant are given below:
- Man Ja Mahal Khandahar [Ruins of the palace of mind], Travelogue, 1984.
- Gufa Je Hun Paar [The other end of tunnel], Short Stories, 1993.
- Satya Jit Ray [Bengali Legendary Writer], Artiste & Director, Biography, 1994.
- Miti-a Ji Mahak [Fragrance of mother earth], Short Stories, 1999.
As Dramatist
Lakhmi has been the author of 3 full-length plays:
- Gudda Guddyun [Dolls].
- Wari-a-Sando Kot [Sandcastle].
- Panhijo Dushman [Your own enemy].
Recognition By Way Of Awards / Honours
The most significant Awards that Lakhmi received were:
- Award for the Book Gufa Je Hun Paar, 1996 [At New Delhi by Sahitya Akademi, Ministry of HRD, Govt. of India].
- Prize for Translation of Bengali novel Asamay in Sindhi, 1998 [At New Delhi by Sahitya Akademi Ministry of HRD, Govt. of India].
Finale
Lakhani Khilani is one of the most important writers in Sindhi language, with a substantial contribution to Sindhi short story, novel and play. Many titles are to his credit. He has made a mark in writing three full-length plays, among them “Wari-a- Sando Kot” based on the nostalgic memories of Sindhi migrants, depicting their sufferings and struggle to rehabilitate themselves. It has been praised and staged several times.
Lakhmi played a historic role decades ago by initiating Sindhi Youth Association [SYA] in Calcutta, and to create a great awakening among the Sindhis of Calcutta.
He played a significant role to the initiation and establishment of Indian Institute of Sindhology at Adipur, for the purpose of promotion and preservation of Sindhi culture and language. He is also editing and publishing a quarterly magazine "Rachna" under the banner of IIS.