Kusumagraj- Makers of Indian Literature

Vishnu Vaman Shirwadkar alias Kusumagraj (1912-1999) was one of the most powerful litterateurs, who influenced the taste of Marathi readership for four decades. Poetry and drama were two major domains of his creative muse. He also wrote remarkable novels, short stories and personal essays. However, his entire literature is dominated by his creativity as a poet. Genuine social concern, revolutionary attitude and mastery over diction were characteristics of his poetry. His deep sympathy induced him to confront realities of life in various strata of society and to explore human aspects in mythological and historical personalities. His inquisitive nature led him to the question of God and the understanding of man in totality. His enriched and mature personality is reflected in his literary creations vividly and pleasantly.

Kusumagraj's poetry is rich in diction and imagery. His poetry is marked with dramatic element and his plays are adorned with poetic style of expression. This fusion of poetry and dramatic element is reflected in his fiction and essays as well. His creativity remained ever-green until the end of his life. Poets and playwrights of different generations consider him as one among them and respect him.

Nishikant Mirajkar (b. 1942), the author of this monograph, is an eminent critic, poet and translator in Marathi, English and Hindi. He works as Professor of Marathi and Comparative Indian literature in the Department of Modern Indian Languages and Literary Studies at the University of Delhi. In this monograph, he evaluates the personality and works of Kusumagraj mainly for the non-Marathi readers.

**Contents and Sample Pages**