Sundri Uttamchandani
Sundri Uttamchandani, born on 28 September 1924 in Hyderabad, Sind [Pakistan], is an M.A. and one of the most distinguished women writers in the Sindhi language. An A-Grade writer-cum-speaker approved by the Films Division, Government of India, she has also translated notable works of authors such as Maxim Gorky, Krishan Chandra, and Sholokhav. She represented India as part of a government-sponsored writers’ delegation to the USSR, reflecting her literary stature and recognition.
Primarily a fiction writer known for the depth and quality of her work, she has authored acclaimed novels, including Kirandar Deewaroon (Collapsing Walls), which has been translated into several Indian languages. Actively involved in Sindhi women’s organizations and cultural activities, she has appeared on All India Radio and television, participated in Sindhi mushairas, and performed on stage, combining literary excellence with social and cultural engagement.
Key Facts
- Birth Date: 28-9-1924
- Place of Birth: Hyderabad, Sind (Pakistan).
- Academic Attainments: M.A.
- Permanent Address: Mumbai, India.
Significant Literary Achievements / Contributions
Sundri has specialized in Short story writing. She has written about 200 short stories, in addition to 12 One Act Plays & 2 Novels. A few most significant are given below:
- Kirandar Deewarun Collapsing Walls] , Novel, 1953.
- Preet Purani Reet Niralee Old Love & New Way] , Novel, 1956.
- Bandhan Attachment] , Short Stories, 1985.
- Bhoori, Short Stories, 1979.
- Vichoro Separation] , Short Stories, 1979.
- Hugau Fragrance] , Poetic Prose, 1989.
Recognition By Way Of Awards / Honours
- Soviet Land Nehru Peace Award, 1979 [At U.S.S.R. by USSR Ambassador to India].
- Award for her book Bhoori, 1981 [At New Delhi by Ministry of Education, Govt. of India].
- Award for her book Vichoro, 1986 [At New Delhi by Sahitya Akademi, Ministry of HRD, Govt. of India].
- Gaurav Puraskar for her literary contributions, 1990 [At Mumbai by Govt. of Maharashtra.
Additional Information
- She is an approved A Grade Writer-cum-Speaker by the Films Division, Govt. of India.
- She has translated many short stories and novels of renowned writers like Maxim Gorky, Krishan Chandra, Sholokhav etc.
- She visited USSR as a part of Writers Delegation sponsored by Govt. of India.
Finale
Sundri is one of the most outstanding lady writers in Sindhi language today. Her output may not be voluminous but quality wise her writtings are excellent. Mainly a fiction writer, but at times indulges in short play as in a poetic prose piece. Her two novels have won her acclamation and one of them, "Kirandar Deewaroon" collapsing walls is translated in many Indian languages and considered the best so far.
She has remained active in Sindhi womens organisations and been helping the needy in the society. Apart from writing, she has been taking active interest in the cultural activities. She has appeared on All India Radio, T.V. and also participated in Sindhi Mushairas and acted on stage.