Harji Lavji Damani

Harji Lavji Damani, better known by his pen name Shayda (24 October 1892 – 31 May 1962) was a Gujarati language poet, novelist, short-story writer and playwright from Gujarat, India.

Subsequently, he started writing ghazals (traditional songs), novels, short stories and plays, including Kumali Kali, which we both wrote and directed.

His works on Gujarati poetry and ghazals include Jay Bharati (1963), Gulzare-Shayri-Shayda (1961), Dipak Na Phool (1965), Chita (1968) and Ashru Chalya Jaay Che (1999).

[5] His novels include Maa Te Maa (1-2), Amina, Chhelli Roshani (1-2), Bahadurshah Zafar (1-2), Azadini Shama (1-2), Khamma Bhaine (1-2), Dukhiyari, Chandani Raat, Mumataz, Saundaryapuja, Navo Sansar, Jamaanani Zalak, Layla, Bhardariye, Andhari Raat (1-2), Senthima Sindur (1-2), Amanat (1-2), Saabira (1-2), Moti Bhabhi, Vanzari Vaav, Virhaak (1-2), Jyoti Toran, Betho Balavo, Lakshminandan, Dr.Anupam, Shamshire Arab (1-2), Punit Ganga, Lakheni Laaj (1-2), Jivata Soor, Nani Nanadi, Aag Ane Ajavala, Shahzadi Kashmira, Raajahans (1-2), Soorsamadhi (1-2), Dev Dulari (1-2), Hamida, Mayanu Man, Rajeshvari, Raajaba, Anavari, Masooma and Doshiza.

[5][2] His story Vanzari Vaav was adapted into the Gujarati film Kariyavar (1977), directed by Chandrakant Sangani.

[2] In his remembrance, the Indian National Theater gives Shayda Award to a young Gujarati ghazal poet every year.