Khushwant Singh
Khushwant Singh Biography
Life and Early Years
Khushwant Singh was born on February 2, 1915, in Hadali, a small village in the Punjab Province of British India (now in Pakistan). He belonged to a well-to-do Sikh family. His father, Sobha Singh, was a prominent builder, while his mother, Sardarni Varyam Kaur, was a homemaker. The family’s affluence allowed Khushwant Singh access to quality education, which laid the foundation for his illustrious career. His early life was shaped by the socio-political changes of the time, including India’s struggle for independence and the partition of the country in 1947, events that deeply influenced his writing.
Singh attended Modern School in Delhi before moving to Government College in Lahore. He later pursued a law degree at King’s College, London, and was called to the bar at the Inner Temple in London. While he initially practiced law, his passion for literature and storytelling soon took precedence.
Career
Khushwant Singh began his professional journey as a lawyer but found his true calling in writing, journalism, and academia. His career evolved over decades and spanned various roles, showcasing his versatility and unmatched wit.
As a Writer
Khushwant Singh is perhaps best known for his literary works, particularly his novels and short stories. His debut novel, Train to Pakistan (1956), remains a landmark in Indian literature. It vividly portrays the horrors and human tragedies of the Partition, a theme that deeply resonated with readers and critics alike. The novel’s gripping narrative and emotional depth established Singh as a literary force.
Other notable works include:
- I Shall Not Hear the Nightingale (1959): Set during India’s freedom struggle, this novel explored themes of loyalty, patriotism, and familial conflicts.
- Delhi: A Novel (1990): A historical and erotic narrative that intertwined the city’s rich past with fictional elements.
- The Company of Women (1999): A bold exploration of love, lust, and relationships.
- Numerous collections of short stories, essays, and humorous writings, such as The Mark of Vishnu and The Collected Short Stories of Khushwant Singh.
Khushwant Singh was known for his unflinching honesty, earthy humor, and keen observations of human behavior. His ability to blend satire with serious social commentary made his writing unique and relatable.
As a Journalist
Singh had an illustrious career in journalism. He served as the editor of several prominent publications, including:
- The Illustrated Weekly of India: Under his stewardship, the magazine became widely popular for its engaging and thought-provoking content.
- The Hindustan Times: He brought a fresh perspective to the publication and expanded its readership.
- The National Herald: He contributed significantly to its editorial content.
Singh’s columns, particularly his long-running column With Malice Towards One and All, showcased his trademark wit and fearless opinions. He was unafraid to critique political figures, societal norms, or even religious institutions, earning both admirers and detractors.
As an Academic and Diplomat
Khushwant Singh also contributed to academia and diplomacy. He worked as a lecturer at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and later at the Lahore Government College. He briefly served as the Information Officer of the Government of India and represented the country in UNESCO in Paris during the 1950s.
Awards and Recognition
Over his long and distinguished career, Khushwant Singh received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and society. Some of the most notable include:
- Padma Bhushan (1974): Singh was awarded this prestigious honor by the Government of India for his exceptional literary achievements. However, he returned the award in 1984 to protest against the Indian Army’s Operation Blue Star in Amritsar.
- Padma Vibhushan (2007): India’s second-highest civilian award was conferred upon him in recognition of his immense contributions to literature and journalism.
- Punjab Rattan Award (2006): This award celebrated his enduring legacy in Punjab and Indian culture.
- Sahitya Akademi Fellowship: He was honored with this fellowship for his lifetime achievements in Indian literature.
- Honorary Doctorates: Singh received honorary doctorates from several institutions, including Panjab University and Visva-Bharati University.
Net Worth
He was known more for his intellectual wealth than material riches. His estimated net worth during his lifetime was modest, reflecting his focus on writing and intellectual pursuits rather than financial gain. However, his books, columns, and editorial roles did provide him with a comfortable lifestyle. Singh owned a house in Sujan Singh Park, one of Delhi’s posh residential areas, which he inherited from his family. This residence became an iconic space associated with his personality and work.
Family, Wife, and Kids
Khushwant Singh married Kawal Malik in 1939. Their marriage was a strong and enduring partnership that lasted until Kawal’s death in 2001. The couple had two children:
- Rahul Singh: A well-known journalist and writer, Rahul followed in his father’s footsteps and made a name for himself in the field of media.
- Mala Singh: Khushwant Singh’s daughter, Mala, preferred to stay away from the public eye and maintained a private life.
Singh often spoke about his family with great affection, and his writings occasionally reflected his personal experiences and relationships.
Favorites and Personality
Khushwant Singh was a man of eclectic tastes and interests. He was unapologetically himself, embracing life with humor, curiosity, and a zest for living. Here are some aspects of his personality and preferences:
Literary Influences
Singh admired a wide range of writers, including:
- Rudyard Kipling
- Somerset Maugham
- Leo Tolstoy
- Saadat Hasan Manto (a contemporary and fellow chronicler of Partition)
His own writing was heavily influenced by his keen observations of human nature and his deep understanding of history and culture.
Hobbies
Singh was known for his love of books, which he famously referred to as his “most enduring companions.” He was also a wine and whisky connoisseur, often enjoying a glass while discussing literature or politics. Singh’s gardens, especially his collection of roses, were another source of joy for him.
Food Preferences
A true Punjabi at heart, Khushwant Singh relished simple yet flavorful Indian dishes. His favorites included:
- Butter chicken
- Sarson ka saag and makki ki roti
- Dal makhani
He also had a fondness for pickles and often humorously mentioned them in his columns.
Personality and Humor
Singh’s personality was a mix of sharp wit, self-deprecating humor, and intellectual depth. He was often described as a “lovable rogue” who could charm readers with his candor. Despite his bold opinions, Singh was deeply empathetic and had a profound understanding of human nature.
He was also an unapologetic secularist, advocating for communal harmony and criticizing religious fundamentalism. His irreverent humor and willingness to challenge societal norms earned him both accolades and controversies.
Legacy
Singh passed away on March 20, 2014, at the age of 99. His death marked the end of an era in Indian literature and journalism. Singh’s legacy endures through his vast body of work, which continues to inspire readers and writers worldwide.
Beyond his books and columns, Singh’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty, courage, and a sense of humor in navigating the complexities of life. His Sujan Singh Park residence remains a symbol of his literary genius and his contribution to Indian intellectual life.
Khushwant Singh’s name is synonymous with storytelling that is both unpretentious and profound. Whether capturing the horrors of Partition, the beauty of Delhi, or the quirks of human behavior, Singh’s work remains timeless, ensuring his place as one of India’s greatest literary icons.
FAQs
1. Who was Khushwant Singh?
Khushwant Singh was an eminent Indian author, lawyer, journalist, and politician, known for his sharp wit, profound storytelling, and outspoken opinions.
2. When was Khushwant Singh born?
He was born on February 2, 1915, in Hadali (now in Pakistan).
3. What is Khushwant Singh famous for?
He is most famous for his novel “Train to Pakistan”, which vividly portrays the horrors of the Partition of India in 1947.
4. Which genre of writing is Khushwant Singh known for?
Singh is known for his historical fiction, satirical essays, and autobiographical works.
5. What was Khushwant Singh’s first novel?
His first novel was “The Mark of Vishnu and Other Stories”, published in 1950.
6. Which of Khushwant Singh’s books is considered a Partition classic?
“Train to Pakistan” is considered a classic that captures the trauma and human suffering during the Partition of India.
7. Was Khushwant Singh also a journalist?
Yes, Khushwant Singh was a prolific journalist and served as the editor of leading publications like The Illustrated Weekly of India, The Hindustan Times, and The National Herald.
8. Did Khushwant Singh receive any awards for his literary work?
Yes, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1974, which he returned in 1984 in protest against the Indian Army’s storming of the Golden Temple. He also received the Padma Vibhushan in 2007.
9. What is Khushwant Singh’s connection to humor and satire?
Singh was known for his humorous and satirical writing. His works often included sharp observations about politics, religion, and society.
10. Was Khushwant Singh a politician?
Yes, Singh was a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament, from 1980 to 1986.
11. What is “Khushwant Singh’s History of the Sikhs”?
It is a two-volume book that provides an in-depth history of the Sikh community, its origins, and its evolution.
12. What themes are prevalent in Khushwant Singh’s works?
His works often deal with themes like Partition, religion, human relationships, political commentary, and humor.
13. Did Khushwant Singh write about his own life?
Yes, his autobiography, “Truth, Love & a Little Malice”, provides a candid account of his life, personal experiences, and controversies.
14. Which newspapers featured Khushwant Singh’s columns?
His popular column “With Malice Towards One and All” appeared in many leading Indian newspapers.
15. What is Khushwant Singh’s legacy in Indian literature?
Khushwant Singh is remembered as one of India’s finest writers and satirists, known for his honest and fearless commentary on Indian society and politics.
16. Did he write poetry?
Yes, he translated and compiled poems, including works of Urdu and Punjabi poetry, and also wrote his own verses.
17. What is Khushwant Singh’s contribution to humor?
He wrote several joke books, including “The Khushwant Singh Joke Book”, which is widely popular for its wit and humor.
18. What was Khushwant Singh’s stance on religion?
Singh was an agnostic, though he deeply respected Sikh culture and traditions, often exploring the role of religion in society.
19. When did Khushwant Singh pass away?
He passed away on March 20, 2014, at the age of 99.
20. How did Khushwant Singh portray Partition in “Train to Pakistan”?
He portrayed the Partition as a human tragedy, focusing on the impact on ordinary people rather than political events.
21. What are some of Khushwant Singh’s other notable works?
Other notable works include “I Shall Not Hear the Nightingale”, “Delhi: A Novel”, and “The Company of Women”.
22. Did Khushwant Singh write for children?
Yes, he wrote “A History of Sikhs for Children” and other stories aimed at younger readers.
23. What kind of personality did Khushwant Singh have?
He was known for his sharp intellect, wit, and fearless honesty in expressing his opinions, often courting controversy.
24. Did Khushwant Singh support any causes?
He was an advocate for freedom of speech, secularism, and literary expression, and often spoke against dogma and religious extremism.
25. How is Khushwant Singh remembered today?
Singh is remembered as a literary giant whose works continue to resonate with readers for their honesty, humor, and humanity.
Khushwant Singh
