Jhaverchand Meghani

Jhaverchand Meghani (1896–1947) was a distinguished Gujarati poet, writer, folklorist, journalist, social reformer, and freedom fighter, famously bestowed the title of 'Rashtriya Shayar' (National Poet) by Mahatma Gandhi. Born in Chotila, Gujarat, Meghani undertook extensive fieldwork, traveling across villages to collect and document Gujarati folk tales, songs, and ballads, which he compiled into seminal collections such as "Saurashtra Ni Rasdhar." This effort played a pivotal role in preserving and revitalizing Gujarati folk traditions. His prolific career spanned roughly 25 years, during which he authored over 100 books, encompassing poetry, short stories, novels, plays, biographies, and historical themes. Meghani's works, including "A Noble Heritage," "Sorthi Santo" (સોરઠી સંતો), "Mansaina Diva" (માનસાઈના દીવા), and "Sorthi Baharavatiya" (સોરઠી બહારવટીયા), reflect his deep engagement with Saurashtrian social life and his nationalist sentiments that inspired resistance during the independence movement.