Provided herein are novel, stilbene like compounds of the general formula (I), their derivatives, analogs, tautomeric forms, stereoisomers, polymorphs, hydrates, metabolites, prodrugs, solvates, pharmaceutically acceptable salts and compositions thereof. These compounds can inhibit HDACs and are useful as a therapeutic or ameliorating agent for diseases that are involved in cellular growth such as malignant tumors, autoimmune diseases, skin diseases, infections, inflammation, etc.