Identity: A distinguished nineteenth-century scholar, linguist, and one of the pioneers of modern Hindi-Urdu prose.

Raja Shiv Prasad, popularly known as Babu Shiv Prasad Sitare Hind (1823–1895), was a distinguished nineteenth-century Indian scholar, linguist, educator, historian, and administrator. He played a significant role in the development of modern Hindi and Urdu prose and advocated a simple, accessible form of Hindustani that could bridge the gap between heavily Persianized Urdu and highly Sanskritized Hindi.

Born in Banaras into a prominent Oswal Vaishya family with ancestral roots in Murshidabad, he received his education at Banaras College. He served in several important administrative and educational positions under the British government, including Mir Munshi, Inspector of Schools, and Joint Inspector of Education. In recognition of his services, he was awarded the title of Raja, which was later made hereditary. He also served as a member of the Governor-General's Legislative Council and was elected a Fellow of the University of Allahabad.

Raja Shiv Prasad authored around thirty-two books in Hindi and Urdu on language, history, education, and social subjects. He also translated important educational works, including History of Sandford and Merton. His scholarly writings, clear prose, and efforts toward linguistic reform earned him a lasting place among the pioneers of modern Hindi-Urdu literature.