New Delhi, April 1: Mamta Kalia has been honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 for her memoir “Jeete Ji Allahabad,” published in 2021. Kalia, a renowned Hindi writer, is celebrated for her significant contributions to literature, including notable novels such as “Beghar,” “Dukhham-Sukhham,” and “Prem Kahani,” along with short stories like “Dusra Devdas” and “Aapki Chhoti Ladki.”
Born in November 1940 in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Kalia’s childhood was spent moving from city to city, including Delhi, Ghaziabad, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Indore, due to her father’s job as a government officer. This nomadic lifestyle instilled in her a unique perspective, which she later expressed in her writing.
Kalia began her literary journey at a young age, influenced by a family environment rich in literature. She completed her schooling in English medium and pursued a degree in English from Christian College in Indore, where she also participated in Hindi literary gatherings. Her early works included poetry, but she transitioned to storytelling after encouragement from the editor of a magazine.
Her first story won a competition in 1964, marking the beginning of her prolific writing . Kalia’s works often explore themes of middle-class life, gender dynamics, and the struggles of working women. She has published over 200 stories and several novels, establishing herself as a prominent voice in contemporary Hindi literature.
The Sahitya Akademi Award ceremony took place at Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi, recognizing Kalia’s impactful memoir that reflects her life experiences and literary journey.