Problems of Women’s Life in
Premchand’s Literature
Kunika Goyal
ABSTRACT
In ancient India, women held a respected
place in society. However, as time progressed, socio-cultural
practices constrained their autonomy. With the advent of modern
education, these barriers began to be questioned. Munshi Premchand,
a pioneering literary figure, addressed women’s issues in his
fiction, providing a realist depiction of their societal
struggles—pre-marital, marital, and post-marital. His works such as
Prema, Sevasadan, Gaban, and Godan serve
as profound critiques of dowry, child marriage, character doubt, and
gender inequality. Premchand's empathetic vision and reformist zeal
advocated equal rights and dignity for women, asserting that
societal progress is only possible when both genders walk in
harmony.
