The writer is reported to be the first female Urdu writer who wrote about feminism and sexuality that had challenged the societal norms in India. Her writings then exposed the subjugation and exploitation faced by Muslim women in their families.

Many other writers and intellectuals hold that her writings, characterised by literary realism, are relevant even in the present times highlighting the plight of women in a male-dominated society.

Padma Shri Ismat Chughtai (21 August 1915–24 October 1991) wrote on themes including female sexuality and femininity, middle-class gentility, and class conflict, often from a Marxist perspective.

She read not only the Qur’an, but also the Gita and the Bible with openness. She believed in socialism, democratic values and equity which is revealed by her short stories.