Khushwant Singh
Novelist, Historian & Columnist
Khushwant Singh was a legendary Indian writer, journalist, and lawyer. Known for his wit, bold commentary, and vivid storytelling, he chronicled the cultural and political landscape of India across decades through both fiction and essays.
About
Khushwant Singh (1915–2014) was one of India's most iconic literary figures. A trained lawyer turned journalist and author, Singh’s prose was crisp, bold, and unflinchingly honest. Best known for his novel Train to Pakistan, a deeply human account of the Partition, Singh also authored several volumes of history, fiction, and autobiography.
He edited The Illustrated Weekly of India and Hindustan Times, reshaping Indian journalism with his sharp eye for truth and flair for controversy. His work covered themes of love, religion, politics, and identity with fearless candor. Singh’s autobiographical works, including Truth, Love & a Little Malice, offered intimate glimpses into his opinions, relationships, and contradictions.
Though often provocative, Singh’s underlying humanism, secularism, and deep knowledge of Indian traditions earned him both accolades and criticism. He remained a vocal critic of extremism and censorship throughout his life. His legacy continues through his essays, short stories, and timeless novels.
Published Books
Train to Pakistan
Historical Fiction
A poignant narrative set against the horrors of Partition, capturing the heartbreak and humanity of a border village torn apart by violence.
The Company of Women
Contemporary Fiction
A provocative exploration of loneliness, lust, and redemption as an affluent man searches for solace through relationships with five different women.
Delhi: A Novel
Historical Fiction
An ambitious narrative blending fact and fiction, recounting the tumultuous history of Delhi through the eyes of a cynical journalist and his eunuch companion.
The History of Sikhs
History
A comprehensive and scholarly account of the Sikh community’s religious, political, and social history from its origins to the present day.
Truth, Love & a Little Malice
Autobiography
A candid, no-holds-barred memoir that chronicles Singh’s life—from childhood to politics—marked by sharp wit and self-reflection.
Khushwantnama: The Lessons of My Life
Non-Fiction
A collection of musings from a 98-year-old Khushwant Singh—on religion, politics, writing, and what truly matters in life.
Recommended Reading
A Bend in the Ganges
Manohar Malgonkar
Set during the turbulent times of India’s freedom struggle and Partition, it offers a gripping tale of violence, loyalty, and transformation.
Tamas
Bhisham Sahni
A haunting portrayal of communal violence, based on true events in the wake of Partition. Raw, urgent, and deeply moving.
Awards & Recognition
Padma Bhushan
1974Awarded for his literary contributions and excellence in journalism.
Padma Vibhushan (declined)
2007Nominated for India’s second-highest civilian award, which he declined in protest.
Punjab Rattan Award
2000Recognized for literary brilliance and bringing Punjabi heritage to the global stage.
Famous Quotes
"There is no beauty like the one that comes from a life well-lived."
"A good writer is one who can write a bad book but doesn’t."
"The worst sin is to remain silent when you should speak out."
"We are a country of talkers, not doers."
"Life is neither a bed of roses nor a bed of thorns, but a mix of both."
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