Sindhi Literature in Crisis

Decline of Quality and the Vanishing Role of Publishers

Sindhi literature, once rich with iconic writers like Shaikh Ayaz and Amar Jaleel, faces a crisis. Quality books are rare, publishing houses are disappearing, libraries are neglected, and literary forums have vanished. Without urgent action, this cultural legacy risks fading into obscurity.

Sindhi literature, once a bastion of poetic brilliance and intellectual discourse, is now facing a profound crisis. In the past century, the number of quality books published in Sindhi could barely cross the mark of 100—a disheartening reality for a language with such a rich literary tradition. The decline in both quality writing and publishing infrastructure highlights deep-seated challenges that require urgent attention.

A lone writer in a dusty, abandoned library with empty shelves and a broken Sindhi Literature. —Image copyright © Nevalor Books.

From Ayaz to Anonymity

The golden era of Sindhi literature produced icons like Shaikh Ayaz, Amar Jaleel, and Manik—writers who set unmatched literary standards. Today, however, Sindhi literature finds itself drowning in mediocrity. Despite an influx of new writers, their works often lack depth, vision, and the ability to stand the test of time.

While the few publishers that remain are trying to hold the fort, the absence of a publishing giant since New Fields Publications has created a vacuum. Most publishers are now focused on profit, not legacy. Quality editing and production have taken a backseat, said a local literary critic.

Publishing Houses: A Vanishing Breed

Sindhi literature's decline is closely tied to the collapse of its publishing industry. At one time, publishing houses played a pivotal role in bringing literary gems to readers. Today, they suffer from:

• Financial Struggles: Publishing quality books demands investment, but with minimal readership and profits, publishers cut corners.

• Lack of Vision: Many prioritize short-term gains over nurturing enduring works of literature.

• Absence of Standards: The absence of editorial and design standards has resulted in a glut of poorly produced books.

The vacuum has deepened because Sindhi Adabi Board and Sindhi Adabi Sangat—institutions once vital to Sindhi literature—are now gasping for survival. Insiders attribute their current state to mismanagement, insufficient funding, and a lack of modernization.

Libraries and Literary Forums: Fading into Oblivion

A vibrant literary culture requires libraries and platforms for discourse, yet both have virtually disappeared in Sindh. Public libraries, where they exist, are poorly funded and neglected. Literary forums, which once served as breeding grounds for new ideas and mentorship, are now non-existent.

Without libraries or literary gatherings, writers have nowhere to grow and readers have nothing to explore. This is a tragedy for Sindhi literature, lamented a senior academic.

Writers Under Siege

Writing quality literature demands time, resources, and guidance, yet Sindhi writers face multiple hurdles:

1. No Financial Incentives: Writing remains an unsustainable career.

2. Lack of Training: Aspiring writers have no access to workshops, mentorship, or exposure to global trends.

3. Cultural Apathy: Reading habits are declining, further discouraging writers from producing ambitious works.

The deteriorating state of education in Sindh has exacerbated this issue, creating a society that neither values reading nor supports literary pursuits.

A Way Forward

The revival of Sindhi literature is not impossible, but it requires decisive, collective efforts. Experts suggest the following measures:

• Revamp Literary Institutions: Reform organizations like Sindhi Adabi Board through transparent governance, modernization, and adequate funding.

• Strengthen the Publishing Industry: Promote private-public partnerships to invest in quality publishing and literary promotion.

• Restore Libraries: Build and maintain libraries in urban and rural areas to cultivate reading habits.

• Support Writers: Offer financial incentives, workshops, and mentorship programs to help emerging writers improve their craft.

• Set Quality Standards: Introduce editorial guidelines to ensure books meet literary and production benchmarks.

• Go Digital: Use digital platforms to promote Sindhi literature globally and engage younger audiences.

The Time to Act Is Now

Sindhi literature stands on the edge of irrelevance. The talent exists, the heritage is undeniable, but without urgent action, the language risks losing its literary soul. The road ahead is challenging, but with the right initiatives, Sindh can reclaim its place as a center of literary brilliance.

The question remains: Will we act before it’s too late?