Muhammad Muaaz Sharif2025-11-222025-11-222024https://escholar.umt.edu.pk/handle/123456789/12053Leon Festinger's cognitive dissonance theory examines how individuals experience psychological discomfort when confronted with conflicting beliefs, values, or behaviors, prompting them to alter their mindset to achieve internal harmony. This research applies Festinger's theory to understand how Saadat Hassan Manto's cognitive dissonance was fueled by the brutal realities of his time, particularly his staunch opposition to the partition of India. Despite the widespread violence and misery of that era, Manto's resistance to the partition reflected his struggle to reconcile his personal beliefs with the harsh societal changes around him. By analyzing Manto's short stories, “Toba Tek Singh,” “Khol Dou,” and “Thanda Gosht.” This study explores how these literary works encapsulate Manto's ideological dissonance and his critique of the partition. Through this lens, the research reveals the depth of Manto's conflict and his unique perspective on the sociopolitical upheaval of his time.enThesis