Dhirendralal Dhar


Dhirendralal Dhar was a Bengali writer. In 1979, he received the Indian National Award for his contributions to Children's literature. His pen name was Shridhar Munshi.

Early life

Dhar was born in Kolkata in British India. He studied in Ariya Mission Institution and then in Vidyasagar College. He worked as a part-time journalist and teacher. In 1928, Dhar joined the Non Co-Operation movement and the Indian National Congress. After that he joined the youth organisation of Hindu Mahasabha.

Literary career

Dhar's first published work is Mrityur Poschate in 1934. He was popular for historical, adventure, horror and detective stories or novels specially for children. He edited child magazines like Shishu Pratibha, Ahoroni, Anondo Pujabarshiki and Kishore Granthabali. Apert from these works, he also wrote some novels for adults. Nalanda Theke Lumbini, Kasmira, Pannagarh were his well known novels in Bengali literature. He wrote serious biographies on Subhaschandra Bose, Vidyasagar and Dr. B.R. Ambdekar.

Works