manto

Manto is a name of South Asian origin that can refer to multiple people and cultural uses, though it is most commonly associated with the Urdu-language writer Saadat Hasan Manto (1912–1955). Born in Ludhiana in British India, he migrated to Pakistan after the partition of the subcontinent and lived in Lahore. His literary career spanned the 1930s to the 1950s, during which he produced short stories, plays, and essays that are widely regarded as central to modern Urdu literature.

Manto is celebrated for stark realism, psychological depth, and a fearless engagement with difficult social topics. His work often centers on marginalized individuals—women, the poor, and urban common people—and explores the moral costs and human consequences of violence, censorship, and upheaval. His insistence on telling uncomfortable truths earned him both acclaim and controversy, and his stories have been translated into numerous languages, contributing to his international influence.

Notable stories attributed to Manto include Toba Tek Singh, a powerful allegory set against the Partition of India, and Khol Do, among others. The writer’s legacy extends beyond literature into film and theatre; a 2018 biographical film, Manto, directed by Nandita Das, dramatizes his life and impact. Today, Manto’s work remains a focal point in discussions of freedom of expression, Partition-era literature, and the evolution of modern Urdu prose.

The name Manto may also function as a surname or toponym in various contexts, reflecting its broader cultural presence in South Asia.