2023 |
Rambhadracharya |
Sanskrit |
Rambhadracharya was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2023 for his immense contributions to Sanskrit scholarship and literature. He is recognized for being a versatile scholar, fluent in 22 languages, and a prolific writer in Sanskrit, Hindi, Awadhi, and Maithili. The Jnanpith committee acknowledged his distinguished work in these areas. |
2023 |
Gulzar |
Urdu |
Gulzar was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2023 for his exceptional contributions to Indian literature, particularly in Urdu poetry. The committee acknowledged his innovation in creating the "Triveni" poetry style, his impactful work in children's literature, and his overall influence on the literary landscape. |
2022 |
Damodar Mauzo |
Konkani |
Damodar Mauzo, the eminent Konkani writer, received the Jnanpith Award for his contributions to Indian literature. He is known for his profound portrayal of Goan life and culture through his writings, which include novels, short stories, and essays. Mauzo's works often explore themes of identity, tradition, and contemporary social issues, showcasing a deep understanding of human emotions and societal complexities. His literary achievements have been widely acclaimed, making him a deserving recipient of the prestigious Jnanpith Award. |
2021 |
Nilamani Phookan |
Assamese |
The award is a recognition of Phookan’s immense contribution towards enriching Assamese literature. His creations shouldn’t remain confined within the nation. Hence, if his family permits, the Publication Board of Assam will translate those for global audience, |
2019 |
Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri |
Malayalam |
For his literary excellence has footprints in genre like drama, reminiscence, critical essays, children literature, short stories and translations. Some of his celebrated creations include Veeravadam, Balidarsanam, Nimisha Kshethram, Amrita Khatika, Akkitham Kavithaka, Epic of Twentieth Century and Antimahakalam. |
2018 |
Amitav Ghosh |
English |
Path-breaking english novelist exploring Indian protagonist ranging across wide international field in both his fictional and discursive writings. Celebrated works include – The Circle of Reason, The Shadow Lines, The Calcutta Chromosome, The Glass Palace, The Hungry Tide and the Ibisi Triology. |
2017 |
Krishna Sobti |
Hindi |
Krishna Sobti is a Hindi fiction writer and essayist, who won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1980 for her novel Zindaginama and in 1996, was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, the highest award of the Akademi. In 2017, she received the Jnanpith Award for her contribution to Indian literature. |
2016 |
Shankha Ghosh |
Bengali |
The award is given for exceptional contribution in the field of literature. He has earlier won the Sahitya Academy Award and the Padmabhushan for his contribution to Indian literature. He is the sixth Bengali to get this prestigious award. |
2015 |
Raghuveer Chaudhari |
Gujarati |
Raghuveer Chaudhari is a novelist, poet and critic from Gujarat. He has also worked as a columnist for numerous newspapers, such as Sandesh, Janmabhumi, Nirikshaka and Divya Bhaskar. |
2014 |
Bhalchandra Nemade |
Marathi |
Bhalchandra Vanaji Nemade is a Marathi writer from Maharashtra. He is famous for his books Hindu and Kosala. Also he is known for his novel Hindu jagnyachi samrudhha adgal. |
2013 |
Kedarnath Singh |
Hindi |
For his notable contribution to Hindi literature. 'Abhi bilkul abhi' and 'Yahan se dekho' are among his prominent works 'Abhi bilkul abhi' and 'Yahan se dekho' are among his prominent works. |
2012 |
Ravuri Bharadhwaja |
Telugu |
Ravuri Bharadwaja was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2012 for his "outstanding literary contribution" in Telugu literature. This means he was recognized for his significant and impressive work as a Telugu novelist, short story writer, poet, and critic. |
2011 |
Pratibha Ray |
Oriya |
Pratibha Ray received the Jnanpith Award in 2011 primarily for her novel "Yajnaseni." This novel, originally written in Odia and translated into several languages, is a significant work in Indian literature. It portrays the character of Draupadi from the Mahabharata in a compelling and thought-provoking manner, exploring themes of feminism, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The novel's deep exploration of Draupadi's inner conflicts and societal pressures resonated widely, earning Pratibha Ray recognition and acclaim, culminating in the prestigious Jnanpith Award. |
2010 |
Chandrashekhara Kambara |
Kannada |
Chandrashekhara Kambara received the Jnanpith Award in 2010 for his exceptional contributions to Kannada literature. His works, spanning poetry, plays, novels, and essays, delve into diverse themes such as social issues, cultural heritage, and human relationships, enriching the literary landscape with their profound insights and lyrical quality. |
2009 |
Amar Kant |
Hindi |
Amar Kant received the Jnanpith Award in 2009 for his significant contributions to Hindi literature, particularly for his profound and innovative writing that explores diverse themes such as human relationships, existential dilemmas, and societal issues with deep insight and literary excellence. |
2009 |
Shrilal Shukla |
Hindi |
Shrilal Shukla was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2009 for his outstanding contributions to Hindi literature, particularly for his novel "Rag Darbari." This novel is celebrated for its satirical portrayal of Indian bureaucracy and politics, offering a sharp critique of societal norms and governmental inefficiencies with humor and insight. |
2008 |
Akhlaq Mohammed Khan 'Shahryar' |
Urdu |
Akhlaq Mohammed Khan 'Shahryar' was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2008 for his significant contributions to Urdu literature, particularly for his lyrical poetry that beautifully captured emotions, human experiences, and philosophical reflections. His poetry is celebrated for its depth, lyrical quality, and profound impact on contemporary Urdu literature. |
2007 |
Ottaplakkal Neelakandan Velu Kurup |
Malayalam |
Ottaplakkal Neelakandan Velu Kurup, a renowned Malayalam poet, was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2007 for his exceptional contributions to Indian literature, particularly for his profound poetry that explores human emotions, nature, and philosophical themes with lyrical beauty and deep insight. |
2006 |
Ravindra Kelekar |
Konkani |
Ravindra Kelekar, a prominent writer and activist in Konkani literature, was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2006 for his exceptional contributions to Konkani literature, which included poetry, novels, essays, and critiques. His writings often focused on social issues, cultural heritage, and the empowerment of marginalized communities, making him a respected figure in Indian literature. |
2006 |
Satya Vrat Shastri |
Sanskrit |
Satya Vrat Shastri received the Jnanpith Award in 2006 primarily for his exceptional contributions to Sanskrit literature. He is renowned for his scholarly works and profound writings that have significantly enriched the understanding and appreciation of Sanskrit texts, ancient Indian philosophy, and cultural heritage. Shastri's deep engagement with Sanskrit literature, including translations, commentaries, and critical analyses, has made him a pivotal figure in preserving and revitalizing this ancient literary tradition. His meticulous scholarship and profound insights into Sanskrit literature were key factors in him being honored with the prestigious Jnanpith Award in 2006. |
2005 |
Kunwar Narayan |
Hindi |
Kunwar Narayan, a celebrated poet and writer in Hindi literature, was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2005 in recognition of his outstanding literary achievements. Known for his innovative and introspective poetry, Kunwar Narayan's works delve deep into human emotions, philosophical musings, and societal reflections. His poetic style combines modern sensibilities with traditional themes, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of life and human relationships. The Jnanpith Award acknowledged his significant contribution to enriching Hindi literature with his lyrical and thought-provoking writings, cementing his legacy as a foremost literary figure in India. |
2004 |
Rahman Rahi |
Kashmiri |
Rahman Rahi was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2004 for his exceptional contributions to Kashmiri literature, particularly through his poetry and prose that deeply resonated with the cultural and social milieu of Kashmir. His works, including "Subhuk Soda" (a collection of poems), "Kalami Rahi" (his autobiography), and "Siyah Rode Jaren Manz" (a collection of short stories), exemplify his literary prowess and profound exploration of human emotions, identity, and the Kashmiri ethos. Rahman Rahi's ability to capture the essence of Kashmiri language and culture in his writings played a significant role in earning him this prestigious recognition. |
2003 |
Vinda Karandikar |
Marathi |
Vinda Karandikar received the Jnanpith Award in 2003 for his significant contributions to Marathi literature, particularly for his poetry collection "Ashtadarshana." This work is celebrated for its profound philosophical depth, exploring eight different perspectives on life and existence. Karandikar's innovative use of language and his ability to weave complex emotions and existential themes into his poetry have made "Ashtadarshana" a landmark in Marathi literature, showcasing his literary prowess and earning him the prestigious Jnanpith Award. |
2002 |
D. Jayakanthan |
Tamil |
D. Jayakanthan was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2002 for his outstanding contributions to Tamil literature. Renowned for his profound and socially conscious storytelling, Jayakanthan's works often delve into the lives of marginalized communities, exploring themes of social justice, human relationships, and existential dilemmas. His ability to portray complex characters with depth and empathy, coupled with his bold narrative style, significantly impacted Tamil literature and culture, earning him this prestigious accolade. |
2001 |
Rajendra Keshavlal Shah |
Gujarati |
Rajendra Keshavlal Shah received the Jnanpith Award in 2001 for his outstanding contribution to Gujarati literature. Renowned for his lyrical poetry, Shah's work is characterized by its rich imagery, deep philosophical insights, and exploration of themes such as nature, love, and human existence. His poetic compositions reflect a profound understanding of Indian culture and traditions, and his unique style and emotional depth have left a lasting impact on Gujarati literature. |
2000 |
Indira Goswami |
Assamese |
For writing about the subalterns and marginalised &contribution in Assamese literature. |
1999 |
Nirmal Verma |
Hindi |
For his contribution in Hindi literature. |
1999 |
Gurdial Singh |
Punjabi |
For his contribution in Punjabi literature. |
1998 |
Girish Karnad |
Kannada |
For his contributions to Kannada literature and for contributions to kannada theater (yayati)[8] |
1997 |
Ali Sardar Jafri |
Urdu |
For his contribution in Urdu literature. |
1996 |
Mahasweta Devi |
Bengali |
Hajar Churashir Ma |
1995 |
M. T. Vasudevan Nair |
Malayalam |
Randamoozham (Second Chance) |
1994 |
U. R. Ananthamurthy |
Kannada |
for his contributions to Kannada literature |
1993 |
Sitakant Mahapatra |
Oriya |
for outstanding contribution to the enrichment of Indian literature, 1973-92 [7] |
1992 |
Naresh Mehta |
Hindi |
For his contribution in Hindi literature. |
1991 |
Subhas Mukhopadhyay |
Bengali |
Padati |
1990 |
V. K. Gokak (Vinayaka Krishna Gokak) |
Kannada |
Bharatha Sindhu Rashmi |
1989 |
Qurratulain Hyder |
Urdu |
Akhire Shab Ke Humsafar |
1988 |
Dr.C. Narayana Reddy |
Telugu |
Vishwambhara |
1987 |
Vishnu Vaman Shirwadkar (Kusumagraj) |
Marathi |
Natsamrat |
1986 |
Sachidananda Rout Roy |
Oriya |
For his contribution in Oriya literature. |
1985 |
Pannalal Patel |
Gujarati |
Maanavi Ni Bhavaai |
1984 |
Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai |
Malayalam |
Kayar {Coir} |
1983 |
Maasti Venkatesh Ayengar |
Kannada |
Chikkaveera Rajendra (Life and struggle of Kodava King Chikkaveera Rajendra) |
1982 |
Mahadevi Varma |
Hindi |
Yama |
1981 |
Amrita Pritam |
Punjabi |
Kagaj te Canvas |
1980 |
S. K. Pottekkatt |
Malayalam |
Oru Desathinte Katha (Story of a land) |
1979 |
Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya |
Assamese |
Mrityunjay (Immortal) |
1978 |
Sachchidananda Hirananda Vatsyayan 'Ajneya' |
Hindi |
Kitni Navon Men Kitni Bar (How many times in many boats?) |
1977 |
K. Shivaram Karanth |
Kannada |
Mookajjiya Kanasugalu (Mookajjis dreams) |
1976 |
Ashapurna Devi |
Bengali |
Pratham Pratisruti |
1975 |
P. V. Akilan |
Tamil |
Chitttrappavai |
1974 |
Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar |
Marathi |
Yayati |
1973 |
Dattatreya Ramachandra Bendre |
Kannada |
Nakutanti (Naku Thanthi) (Four Strings) |
1973 |
Gopinath Mohanty |
Oriya |
Paraja |
1972 |
Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar' |
Hindi |
Urvashi |
1971 |
Bishnu Dey |
Bengali |
Smriti Satta Bhavishyat |
1970 |
Viswanatha Satyanarayana |
Telugu |
Ramayana Kalpavrikshamu (A resourceful tree:Ramayana) |
1969 |
Firaq Gorakhpuri |
Urdu |
Gul-e-Naghma |
1968 |
Sumitranandan Pant |
Hindi |
Chidambara |
1967 |
Kuppali Venkatappagowda Puttappa (Kuvempu) |
Kannada |
Sri Ramayana Darshanam |
1967 |
Umashankar Joshi |
Gujarati |
Nishitha |
1966 |
Tarashankar Bandopadhyaya |
Bengali |
Ganadevta |
1965 |
G. Sankara Kurup |
Malayalam |
Odakkuzhal (Flute) |