Gujarati literature mourns the loss of its beloved icon, Dhiruben Patel, who passed away at 97 in Ahmedabad. Dhiruben’s prolific writing career, spanning several decades, saw her authoring a range of works, from plays to novels and collections of short stories. She was also an accomplished translator and a fierce advocate of women’s rights, often exploring themes of gender and social inequality in her works. Her contributions to literature were recognized with numerous awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Shri. Her passing has left a void in the literary world, and she will be fondly remembered for her literary and cultural legacy.
Dhiruben Patel, fondly known as Dhiruben, was a celebrated Gujarati author and playwright. Born in 1926 in Unjha, Gujarat, Dhiruben started her writing career at a young age and went on to publish several novels, plays, and collections of short stories. Her works often explored themes of social and cultural issues faced by women and marginalized communities.
Dhiruben’s most famous work, the play ‘Bhavni Bhavai,’ was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film by the same name. The film, directed by Ketan Mehta, won several national and international awards and is considered a landmark in Indian cinema.
Throughout her career, Dhiruben received several prestigious awards for her contributions to literature, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, Gujarat Sahitya Akademi Award, and the Padmashri.
Dhiruben Patel authored several notable works in Gujarati literature, including:
- Bhavni Bhavai (Play)
- Mulchha Ma Maya (Novel)
- Aagal Vadho (Short story collection)
- Mena Gurjari (Novel)
- Saundarya Samvad (Play)
- Jher To Pidhan Jani Jani (Novel)
- Sakhio (Play)
- Dharma Na Ghere (Novel)
- Pratyancha (Short story collection)
- Gherat Ghulam (Novel)
Her works were known for their exploration of themes such as women’s rights, social inequality, and cultural identity, and are still widely read and revered in the Gujarati literary world.
Her passing has left a void in the Gujarati literary world, and her contributions to literature and society will always be remembered. Dhiruben’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring writers and artists across India.
