A man who wasn't just a writer, but a phenomenon; Image Source: Public Domain

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One of the most-read writers of the mid-20th century still celebrated and admired by many, Saadat Hasan Manto passed away on the 18th of January, 1955. While his life and works are too numerous to be mentioned in a compact form, this piece shall focus on his legacy, which started as his life ended, after years of struggling with alcoholism leading to his death.

Manto’s growth happened in the changing social, political, and intellectual context of India. As he arrived in Bombay in the 1930s, in his 20s, he came into contact with a leading bunch of authors and actors - Ismat Chugtai, Ashok Kumar, Shyam etc.. Joining the All India Radio’s Urdu service, he would publish numerous radio plays and gain significant fame in the world of literature.

While his works thus far reflected daily anguishes, deeply connected and relatable topics of the common man, it was during and after the Partition that his true legacy would be sealed. A decline in human values, the violently charged social atmosphere and the casual killing of thousands- all affected him deeply and echoed in his writings.

His personal finances were in ruins as he migrated to Lahore in the wake of the Partition. This is where his dark humour, sadness and cynicism make works like *Khol Do* and *Toba Tek Singh* stand out. What further adds to the fire, is that he was often charged for obscenity - 6 times no less. His portrayal of sexual abuse, prostitutes and all taboos of both the new countries - India and Pakistan, got him in numerous court cases. His writings reflect his deep hatred of these as well.

Going through difficult circumstances, he spiralled into alcoholism. He would finally return from his brief prison sentences, only to succumb to death in 1955 at the age of 42. His stories are still widely read, providing important insights into his stifling life and the tumultous times he lived in.

> To commemorate Mato's life and contribution to Urdu literature, the movie 'Manto' was released in the year 2018. Written and directed by Nandita Das, it had actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui playing the role of Manto.
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SH Manto, renowned for his writings in the mid-20th century, exploring what were then taboos, the Partition, as well as his own struggles with obscenity charges, passed away today in 1955. 