In 1967, the landscape of writing and publishing in India was vastly different from what we see today. The digital revolution was decades away. For most writers, especially those working in regional languages like Hindi, the options were limited. You either wrote by hand or sought out professional typists in the market to prepare your manuscripts. This was particularly challenging for those living in smaller cities or towns, where such services might not be readily available.
As a Lecturer posted at a government college in Nathdwara (Rajasthan), after my selection by Rajasthan Public Service Commission, Ajmer in 1966, a city known for its religious significance, I found myself constantly writing-preparing lectures, drafting articles, and working on literary pieces with my hand. The idea of owning a portable Hindi typewriter struck me as both practical and innovative. It promised greater independence in my writing process and the potential to produce cleaner, more professional-looking manuscripts. The portability aspect was particularly appealing, as it meant I could work from anywhere, not just at a fixed desk.
Once I made the decision, I embarked on a journey to Udaipur, a larger city known for its better-stocked markets. There, after some searching, I found a portable typewriter manufactured by JK, a reputable Indian brand at that time. The purchase was a significant investment, both financially and in terms of my commitment to improving my writing process.
Owning the typewriter was just the first step; learning to use it efficiently was a challenge in itself. I dedicated an entire month to mastering the skill of typing in Hindi. This involved learning the keyboard layout, which was quite different from English typewriters, and developing the dexterity to type quickly and accurately. It was a time-consuming process, but I saw it as an essential investment in my future productivity.
The impact was profound. Once I became proficient, I began typing all my work myself – letters, compositions, academic papers, and even my first book. This newfound ability gave me a sense of independence and control over my writing that I had never experienced before. The satisfaction of producing a clean, typed manuscript of my own work was unparalleled. It also sped up my writing process considerably, allowing me to be more productive and self-reliant.
Needless to recall here that typing my first book on the portable Hindi typewriter was a memorable experience. It was a labor of love, combining the creative process of writing with the mechanical act of typing. Each click of the keys felt like a step closer to realizing my dream of being a published author. The process was time-consuming and sometimes frustrating, especially when corrections were needed, but the end result – a neatly typed manuscript – was incredibly rewarding. It gave my work a professional appearance that I believe contributed to its eventual publication. My first book, “Kashmiri Bhasha Aur Sahitya” (Kashmiri Language and Literature), was a labor of love that I vividly remember creating on my lovely and cute typewriter. The process of typing approximately two hundred pages was both arduous and time-consuming, spanning nearly two months. Despite the challenges, each completed page fueled my determination to press on.
As already said, the physical act of typing was cumbersome and painstaking. When errors inevitably occurred, I resorted to using correction fluid, meticulously applying it to mask mistakes before retyping the corrected text. This meticulous attention to detail, though tedious, ensured a polished final product.
Upon completion, Sanmarg Prakashan in Delhi published the book, which garnered significant acclaim in literary circles. The culmination of my efforts came in 1972 when the Ministry of Education honored me with its first prize for the work. It was particularly gratifying to receive this recognition from Prof. Noor-ul-Hasan, who was serving as the Union Minister of Education at that time.
This experience not only marked my debut as an author but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the craft of writing and the evolving technologies that support it. The transition from typewriter to modern word processors has certainly streamlined the writing process, but the sense of accomplishment I felt upon completing that first manuscript remains unparalleled.
Looking back from our current era of computers, smartphones, and advanced printing technology, my journey with the portable Hindi typewriter seems almost old-fashioned. What once took significant effort and time can now be accomplished with a few clicks. However, I don’t view this contrast with regret. Instead, I see it as a testament to human progress and adaptability. My experience with the typewriter taught me valuable lessons about dedication, skill acquisition, and the importance of embracing new tools to enhance one’s craft.
The experience of learning to use and working with the portable Hindi typewriter had a lasting impact on my career and personal growth. It instilled in me a willingness to adapt to new technologies, a trait that has served me well throughout my life. It also gave me a deep appreciation for the tools of writing and how they shape the writing process. Even today, in the age of digital word processors, I carry with me the discipline and attention to detail that I learned from those days of manual typing.
To aspiring writers, I would say: embrace the tools available to you, but never forget that they are just that – tools. The essence of good writing lies in your ideas, your voice, and your dedication to the craft. Whether you’re using a typewriter, a computer, or pen and paper, what matters most is your commitment to expressing yourself clearly and effectively. Also, don’t be afraid to invest time in learning new skills or technologies that can enhance your writing process. The time I spent learning to type paid dividends throughout my career.
In conclusion, my journey with the portable Hindi typewriter is a reminder of how far we’ve come in terms of writing technology. It’s a story of adaptation, perseverance, and the timeless pursuit of self-expression through the written word. As we continue to see advancements in technology, it’s worth remembering that each new tool opens up new possibilities for creativity and communication.
Author is a Former Fellow, IIAS, Shimla (H.P), Currently in Bengaluru (Karnataka). He can be mailed at skraina123@gmail.com
