From the heartlands of Jorhat, Assam, Anuradha Sharma Pujari has emerged as a literary icon over the past three decades. As a journalist and editor of Sadin and Satsori, she has tackled issues such as feminism, casteism, and the human condition in Assam. Through her writing, Anuradha has become a powerful voice for social change, inspiring readers with her insightful exploration of the challenges faced by individuals and society.
Early Life and Education
Anuradha Sharma Pujari was born in 1964 in Jorhat, Assam. Growing up in the serene surroundings of Assam’s tea estates, she developed a deep love for reading and writing. She studied sociology at Dibrugarh University, and later moved to Kolkata to study journalism at the Birla Institute of Liberal Arts and Management Sciences.
Career in Journalism
Anuradha began her journalism career with the Assamese daily Amar Asom. Today, she is the editor of the popular Assamese weekly magazine Sadin and the monthly magazine Satsori. Through these platforms, she addresses a wide range of social issues, including feminism, casteism, and the complexities of life in Assam. Her insightful articles and editorials have made her a respected voice in Assamese journalism.
Literary Contributions
Anuradha Sharma Pujari has made significant contributions to Assamese literature through her novels, short stories, and autobiographical works. Her debut novel, Hriday Ek Bigyapan (The Heart’s a Showbiz), published in 1998, became an instant hit among young readers. The novel offered a fresh perspective on the media and advertising world, resonating with many and establishing her as a leading voice in Assamese literature.
Notable Works
- Hriday Ek Bigyapan (1998): This novel critiques capitalism by exploring how it turns people into commodities. The story follows Mohua, who refuses to let her poetry be used for an ad campaign, symbolizing resistance against commodification.
- Kanchan (2001): This novel portrays the life of a young girl facing sexual harassment, highlighting the struggles of women in a patriarchal society.
- Nahoror Niribili Cha (2005): A semi-autobiographical novel about her university experiences, it won the Basanti Bordoloi Award for its vivid storytelling.
- Mereng (2010): A historical novel based on the life of Indira Miri, an education pioneer among Assam’s tribes during the British era.
- Jalachabi (2014): This novel deals with the emotional distance created by Alzheimer’s disease between parents and children and was translated into English as Ashes Still Whisper.
- Eyat Ekhan Aranya Asil (2021): This award-winning novel explores themes of social justice and environmental issues, earning her the Sahitya Akademi Award.
Themes and Style
Anuradha’s writing focuses on social realism and human conflicts. Her novels address various themes, such as:
– Social Issues and Realism: Her works tackle important issues like feminism, sexual harassment, and casteism, resonating with readers who relate to the complexities of modern Assamese life.
– Femininity and Women’s Struggles: She highlights the challenges faced by women, especially those from working-class backgrounds, and sheds light on societal neglect.
– Environmentalism: Nature plays a significant role in her works, urging readers to consider the importance of environmental conservation.
– Capitalism and Commodification: Her novels critique how capitalism commodifies human lives and erodes traditional values.
Awards and Recognition
Anuradha Sharma Pujari has received numerous awards, including:
– Kumar Kishore Memorial Literary Award (2003) from the Assam Sahitya Sabha.
– Basanti Bordoloi Award for Nahoror Niribili Cha.
– Chandranath Sarma Award for lifetime achievement in Assamese literature.
– Sahitya Akademi Award (2021) for Eyat Ekhan Aranya Asil.
Her ability to highlight marginalized voices and tackle complex themes has made her one of the most popular writers in contemporary Assamese literature.
Conclusion
Anuradha Sharma Pujari is an inspiring figure whose contributions to Assamese literature and journalism are significant. Through her novels and essays, she has entertained and educated readers about pressing social issues, enriching Assam’s literary landscape. Her work continues to inspire future generations of writers and readers.
Anuradha’s journey from a reluctant novelist to a celebrated author began with encouragement from renowned Assamese writer Homen Borgohain. Her experiences in Kolkata’s advertising industry during the 1990s inspired her debut novel, exploring the challenges of globalization and consumerism. Her storytelling and commitment to social realism have made her a beloved and respected voice in Assamese literature, ensuring her legacy endures.
