The film 'Shatranj Ke Khiladi' is based on a short story by ____________.

Munshi Premchand

The correct answer is Option (4) - Munshi Premchand

Munshi Premchand, the renowned Indian writer, penned the short story "Shatranj Ke Khiladi" (The Chess Players) in 1924. This captivating tale set against the backdrop of Lucknow's decline during the British Raj was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film by Satyajit Ray in 1977.

The story "Shatranj Ke Khiladi" is set in the backdrop of Awadh (present-day Uttar Pradesh, India) during the period of British colonial rule in the 19th century. It revolves around the obsession of two nobleman friends, Mirza Sajjad Ali and Mir Roshan Ali, with the game of chess (shatranj). They are so engrossed in playing chess that they neglect their duties and responsibilities, oblivious to the political turmoil unfolding around them.