Mahesh Chandra Sharma Gautam; born 24 December 1948; is a Sanskrit scholar, writer, poet and educator from Patiala, India. He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award 2020 for Sanskrit by Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters for his novel Vaishali. He is a feminist writer and his books (most of them women-centric) reflect modern day social issues. He is the author of the historical epic (mahakavya)- 'Swatantrya Samar'.

Prof. Dev Datt Bhati writes about him in the title pages of Dr. Gautam's novel Sunayanā-

"If according to E. Lammart strings of actions are considered as the most important structural elements of a novel, Dr. Mahesh Gautam's 'Sunayanā' will be undoubtedly one of the modern notable novels of Sanskrit.

Dr. Gautam is well known for his creative writings. He has already authored more than half a dozen books in Sanskrit. His three novels- 'Arunā', 'Vaiśālī' and 'Nīrajā' in Sanskrit have already made a significant place for him among the galaxy of Sanskrit scholars.

The reputation attained by the authors of Sanskrit mahākāvyas in classical age is now being attained by the modern authors of Sanskrit Gadya Kāvyas.

His recently written novel 'Sunayanā' reveals a new insight in an elegant Sanskrit. His modern sensibility expressed through fresh ideas and new technique of the art of novel craft has enriched the ancient classical language with new metaphors, skill and style. His novels are thus a testimony of the youthful vigour and fervour in Sanskrit.

Dr. Gautam is equally good at the critical exposition of Vedic literature particularly tenth mandal of Rigveda. A cursory look at his interpretation of relevant part of Rigveda amply proves his critical and comprehensive treatment of the subject.

As far as his novels are considered, they are wholly different from the novels of classical age and those of the modern times. Though the gadya mahākāvyas of Subandhu, Bāṇ and Dandin continue to be placed at the top and will continue to receive a worldwide recognition, but the novels authored by Dr. Mahesh Gautam will enjoy a significant place in Modern writing. Dr. Gautam's style of writing is unique. His novel 'Sunayanā ' also has most impressive quality of description of the nature, cities and old monuments of vast India. He is indeed successful in personifying the nature. His mighty pen has the power to put to life the lifeless before the readers."