A Death in Delhi

A Death in Delhi: Modern Hindi Short Stories offers a compelling glimpse into the evolution of contemporary Hindi literature through fifteen carefully selected short stories. Reflecting the anxieties, alienation, and transformations of urban middle-class life, these narratives explore themes of estrangement, dislocation, and the tension between tradition and modernity. The stories delve into intimate emotions and societal challenges, portraying a world where individuality collides with the forces of a rapidly changing society. Rooted in the unique context of Indian life, the collection also highlights a universal resonance, connecting readers to shared human experiences.

Spanning the work of writers from the 1950s and 1960s, this anthology captures a pivotal moment in Hindi literature when storytelling shifted toward introspection and realism. The included stories illustrate how modern Hindi authors moved beyond traditional forms to embrace experimental techniques and taboo themes, reflecting a growing sense of skepticism and disillusionment with societal norms. Through vivid translation and a nuanced introduction, this volume introduces readers to the rich tapestry of Hindi short fiction and its relevance in both the Indian and global literary landscapes.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1972.