Ismat Chughtai (Urdu: عصمت چغتائی) (August 1915 – 24 October 1991) was an eminent Urdu writer, known for her indomitable spirit and a fierce feminist ideology. She was considered the grand dame of Urdu fiction, Along with Rashid Jahan, Wajeda Tabassum and Qurratulain Hyder, Ismat’s work stands for the birth of a revolutionary feminist politics and aesthetics in twentieth century Urdu literature. She explored feminine sexuality, middle-class gentility, and other evolving conflicts in the modern Muslim world. Her outspoken and controversial style of writing made her the passionate voice for the unheard, and she has become an inspiration for the younger generation of writers, readers and intellectuals.
I was expecting some controversial stuff and still didn't expect such literary realism. Some of the stories are really fresh and exquisite. I particularly enjoyed ' Nanhi ki Naani' and 'Mughal Bachha'
Having said this, the language is a bit difficult and contains many urdu words. Overall, it's a nice short read. If not for anything, read it for 'lihaaf' and see for yourself what a courageous attempt it was.
Damn she was a bold and visinory writer. even better than Manto sometimes. her stories has every elements.. philosophy, reality, politics.. she questions everything in her stories. I want to read her again and again.