Kafan by Munshi Premchand

Kafan by Munshi Premchand is a powerful short story that deals with themes of poverty, human suffering, and social apathy. It follows the tragic tale of two poor men, Ghisu and Madhav, who, despite being desperately poor, show indifference when it comes to fulfilling basic human responsibilities. When Madhav’s wife dies during childbirth, instead of arranging a proper funeral or mourning her death, they squander money they get for the funeral shroud on food and drink.

The story critiques the moral decay and social indifference of individuals who prioritize their immediate desires over duty and compassion. Kafan is one of Premchand’s most poignant works, highlighting the struggles of the poor and the human inability to break free from cycles of misery.