Analysis of Mulk Raj Anand's Novel 'Untouchab...

Analysis of Mulk Raj Anand's Novel 'Untouchable' As A Reflection of The Downtrodden And Untouchables

Author Name : Sandeep Kumar

ABSTRACT

Mulk Raj Anand is an eminent Indian author known as a vocal advocate for the oppressed in society. His significant works' Untouchable' and 'Coolie' depict characters from the community of backward and disadvantaged people. He writes for society, which influences Indian society to be ruled by another group. He has emphasized the harsh language used by others over the disadvantaged, not only for the readers but also for the inhabitants of such pitiful communities. While reading in the context of outcasts, peasants, and pitiful people, we feel strange. He depicts laborers, peasants, and impoverished individuals. The majority of his novels have been perceived by Indian society as realistic depictions of the unfortunate circumstances in which his characters find themselves, thereby awakening Indian society. It had less significance at the time. Therefore, this research paper aims to elaborate on the harsh realities and predicaments depicted in "Untouchable."

Untouchable by Mulk Raj Anand is without a doubt one of the most vicious satires on Hinduism and its hypocritical practises. This is merely a reflection of the culture. The theme of suffering caused by cruel life circumstances is realistically portrayed, and the heroism of the protagonist elevates the novel to the status of a mini-epic. His recurring themes include religious hypocrisy, feudalism, and East-West encounter, the position of women in society, superstitions, poverty, hunger, and exploitation. Though the novel depicts the protagonist's day-to-day activities, it also depicts Indian society between 1930 and 1940, when poverty, slavery, and the inhuman exploitation of the masses were at their worst. The theme of suffering caused by life's cruel circumstances is portrayed graphically and realistically, and the protagonist's valiant struggle elevates the novel to classic status.

Keywords: Mulk Raj Anand, Untouchable, Untouchability, religious bigotry, suffering, ossified social attitudes, deprivation, humiliation