He was also the first Hindi author to introduce realism in his writings.
His greatness lies in the fact that his writings embody social purpose and social criticism rather than mere entertainment.
Literature, according to Premchand, was a powerful means of educating public opinion. He was also a social reformer and thinker. He believed in social evolution and his ideal was equal opportunities for all.
He wrote nearly 300 stories and novels. Among his best known novels are: Sevasadan, Rangmanch, Gaban, Nirmala and Godan. Much of Premchand's best work is to be found among his 250 or so short stories, collected in Hindi under the title Manasarovar. Three of his novels have been made into films. Satyajit Ray filmed two of Premchand's works– Sadgati and Shatranj Ke Khiladi. Sevasadan was made into a film with MS Subbulakshmi in the lead role.
