Idealism and Realism in the Short Stories of Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi

Abstract

Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi is a prominent figure in Urdu short story writing, known for his profound portrayal of rural life and its socio-economic challenges. Often referred to as the second Premchand, Qasmi blends idealism and realism harmoniously in his fiction. His stories frequently depict ideal characters rooted in moral and social values like honesty, sacrifice, and human dignity, aiming to cultivate a just and ideal society. At the same time, he realistically presents the harsh conditions of village life—poverty, exploitation, class divisions, and social injustices. His works such as “Sona ka Haar,” “Chor,” “Ghareeb ka Tohfa,” and “Kapas ka Phool” reflect both the dream of a better world and the bitter realities that shatter those dreams. Through characters like Baba Amro and Tajjo Mai, he presents humanistic ideals; whereas stories like “Rais Khana” and “Gandasa” expose grim realities. Deeply influenced by the Progressive Writers’ Movement, Qasmi’s fiction illustrates his desire to reform society through a balance of moral idealism and social realism. His unique narrative style and thematic depth position him as a writer whose art bridges the imaginative and the real.