Dharmaputra by Acharya Chatursen

Dharmaputra is a powerful Hindi novel that examines communalism, religious identity, social prejudice, and human relationships against the turbulent background of pre-Partition India. The story centers on Dilip, who is raised in a Hindu family but grows into a rigid communalist, unaware of the truth surrounding his own birth and heritage. Through family relationships, ideological conflict, and emotional revelations, Acharya Chatursen exposes the destructive consequences of religious hatred and fanaticism. The novel questions narrow ideas of identity while emphasizing humanity, tolerance, and social harmony. Its themes later inspired the acclaimed 1961 film adaptation directed by Yash Chopra.