Shukhalata Rao (1886–1969) was an Indian social worker, artist and children's book author. Born in Calcutta in the Bengal province of British India, she was the daughter of Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury, and sister of Sukumar Ray. She studied in Bethune College, and obtained a bachelor's degree.

Sukhalata Rao
Born(1886-10-23)23 October 1886
Died9 July 1969(1969-07-09) (aged 82)
Cuttack, Odisha, India
NationalityIndian
EducationBethune College
Visva-Bharati University
Occupation(s)Writer, illustrator
Notable workBehula, Nije Pora
MovementBengal School of Art
FatherUpendra Kishore Ray
Relatives
AwardsKaiser-e-Hind in 1956 for her book Nije Pora

She married Dr. Jayanta Rao from Cuttack. After moving to Cuttack, Shukhalata founded the Shishu-o-Matri Mangal Kendro ('Centre for the Welfare of Children and Mothers'). She also established the Orissa Nari Seva Sangha.[1]

Writings

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Shukhalata was the editor of Alok, a newspaper.[1] Her writings include children's stories, and fairy tales. Her books include:

  • Galpa-ar-Galpa
  • Galper Boi (1912)
  • Aro Galpa (1916)
  • Khoka Elo Beriye (1916)
  • Natun Para (1922)
  • Shonar Mayur
  • Natun Chhora (1952)
  • Bideshi Chora (1962)
  • Nanan Desher Rupkatha
  • Pather Alo
  • Aesoper Golpo
  • Living Lights
  • Nije Pora
  • Behula

Bengali Play

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  • Atar Muchir Goppo

Awards

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Shukhalata Rao was given the Kaiser-e-Hind award by the Government of India in 1956 for her book Nije Pora.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c Sarker, Sushanta (2012). "Rao, Shukhalata". In Islam, Sirajul; Jamal, Ahmed A. (eds.). Banglapedia: National Encyclopedia of Bangladesh (Second ed.). Asiatic Society of Bangladesh.