Abstract Social realism is a significant literary approach that seeks to depict the actual conditions of society and the lived experiences
of ordinary people (Williams, Marxism and Literature). The writings of Saadat Hasan Manto stand among the most
compelling representations of social realism in Urdu literature (Jalal; Flemming). His short stories present the stark and often
uncomfortable realities of human life, including poverty, violence, prostitution, and the psychological scars caused by the
Partition of India (Jalal; Bhalla). Through his bold and unfiltered narratives, Manto reveals the hypocrisy, injustice, and
moral contradictions embedded within society. His characters frequently come from marginalized sections such as refugees,
laborers, and socially oppressed women, whose experiences reflect broader societal conditions. Stories like Toba Tek
Singh, Khol Do, and Thanda Gosht demonstrate the devastating consequences of communal violence and human suffering
during times of crisis (Manto, Toba Tek Singh and Other Stories). This study explores the key elements of social realism in
Manto’s writings and evaluates how his stories function as reflections of deeper social tensions and structures. It also
examines his narrative methods, including concise language, psychological insight, and symbolic depth, which reinforce
the realism of his work. The study concludes that Manto’s literature not only records historical realities but also compels
readers to engage critically with uncomfortable truths about society and human nature.