Noted Urdu writer Mujtaba Hussain returns Padma Shri

Noted Urdu satarist and humorist Mr.Mujtaba Hussain has decided to return the Padma Shri award which was conferred on him in 2007 for his contribution to Urdu literature.

The 83-year-old columnist told that "as a writer I have devoted my entire life to uphold our composite culture. Now, I feels suffocated as democracy in



our country is under severe threat".

Mr Hussain is credited with reviving interest in satire and gave urdu language a new group of ardent followers.

His sense of humour has earned him many admirers, including writer and journalist Khuswant Singh.