Mahatma Phule's Available Literature

In order to spread and disseminate his thoughts, Mahatma Phule produced ample literature, both in prose and poetry. The following facts are clearly observed from his literature :

• Emphasis on the deteriorating conditions of farmers, women, labourers and poor people in villages

• Remedies for preventing these deteriorating conditions and solving the varied problems of life

• His skill in effectively communicating to the common people; simplicity and the flow of language in rendering a faithful and true picture of the social reality- these are the distinguishing features of Jotiaro's literature.

Some Literature By Mahatma Phule

• Trutiya Ratna (drama )
  
  This drama is considered as the first modern, social and independent play in Marathi. 'Knowledge' is considered as the third jewel in Indian tradition. In this sense, the title is appropriate. This drama depicts how 'Bhats' (Brahmins) exploit ignorant Shudras. On the other hand, this drama depicts a Christian preacher shows the exploited shudras, the way of truth. This drama effectively depicts the importance of education by illustrating how the masses are cheated because of their ignorance.
   

• Ballad : Chhatrapati Shivajiraje Bhonsale Yancha Powada :
  
  In this exhaustive ballad, a review was taken of the works and achievements of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is in eight parts. It is presented in simple way so that ordinary people can understand it. It is considered the first work of merit in Marathi poetry/ Literature in poem form.
   

• Brahmnanche Kasab :
  
  The exploitation of ignorant and poor Shudras by 'Bhats' (Brahmins) has been presented in poetic form.
   

• Gulamgiri :
  
  Mythical stories have been critically analyzed. The fight between Aryas and the original 'Kshetrapatis' has been effectively described. For the first time, it has been presented that, "Indian history is the history of the fight between Brahmins and Non- Brahmins".
   

• Shetkaryacha Aasood :
  
  Jotirao had studied the poor condition of the Shudras and Atee –Shudras from several indigenous and foreign books. He has presented all those ideas together it in this book. Some important evaluation regarding Agriculture has been presented in this book. Jotirao read chapters from this book in public. This book was also read in front of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaikwad of Baroda. Jotirao sent the manuscript of the book, to the Viceroy too.
   

• Satsaar :
  
  Jotirao had published 'Satsaar' (journal) in two parts, and the following subjects have been presented ;
  Brahma Samaj.
  - Prarthana Samaj.
  - Social Status of infants born of persons from different castes.
  - Ideology of the Aryabhattas.
  In the second part, Jotirao has severely condemned the people who used to criticize the women for adopting the new ways.
   

• Ishara :
  
  Jotirao has specified that the caste imbalance is the obstacle in the development of the Nation. Jotirao warned that, false opinions can misguide the common people and ultimately this would harm the Nation. Jotirao has indicated that, the statement, "The condition of farmers is better" is false.
   

• Sarvajaneek Satyadharma Pustak :
  
  This is the last book by Jotirao. It was published posthumously in the year 1891. Jotirao completed the writing of this book with his left hand, as his right hand was paralyzed. The great thoughts of 'Manav Dharma' (Humanitarian Religion) have been presented for the common people. 'Manav Dharma' advocates –
  - The abandoning of rigid and outdated religious orthodoxy,
  - Accepting ethical thoughts based on equality, fraternity, humanity.
  Jotirao believed that this would help in the construction of a new society. This book includes a description of simple rites which lead to happiness.
   

• Akhandadi Kavyarachana or continuous poetic creations:
  
  They include certain socially fruitful, noble principles -
  - Enlightenment.
  - Fight against religious orthodoxy.
  - Importance of some great persons.
  - Teachings to the 'Shudras and Atee Shudras'.

Such noble thoughts are presented in a sweet, simple poetic form.