Lakshman (poem) by Toru Dutt

 Thinking Activity:- Lakshman (poem) by Toru Dutt

Hello Readers! This blog is a response to the thinking activity, which was assigned by Megha ma'am, Department of English,MKBU. In this blog I am going to discuss one Poem "Lakshman" by Toru Dutt. 

Write a critical note on poem "Lakshman" by Toru Dutt.

Introduction of the Author:-

Toru Dutt:-

Toru Dutt popularly known as Tarulatta Datta. She was an Indian Bengali poet & translator from British India, who wrote in English and French. She is among the founding figures of Indo-Anglian literature, alongside Henry Louis Vivian Derozio, Manmohan Ghosh and Sarojini Naidu. She is known for her volumes of poetry in English, Sita, A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields and Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan, and for a novel in French , Le Journal de Mademoiselle d'Arvers. Her poems explore themes of loneliness, longing, patriotism and nostalgia. Dutt died at the age of 21 of tuberculosis.

Notable works:-

She is known for her volumes of poetry in English. Her notable works are below.

• Sita

• A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields

• Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan

• For a novel in French

• Le journal de Mademoiselle d'Arvers

Critical note of the Poem:-

Lakshman:-

Lakshman, a narrative poem, draws inspiration from Hindu mythology's Ramayana by Valmiki. It centres around Lakshmana, the son of Dashrath, who becomes the hero of this story. When Ram, his elder brother, is exiled from Ayodhya with his beloved wife Sita on the King's orders, Lakshman joins them as their protector, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty and deep affection for his elder brother.

This poem Lakshman is based on Indian myths. The poem is about Sita's Allegation and Goddess Sita vs Human Sita. This poem Lakshman carries the one line story of Sita's argument with Lakshman in the absence of Ram. The poem consists of twenty -two stanzas and eight lines for each with alternative rhymes. It is in ballad form with eight lines, yet standard ballad consists of four lines. Direct application of terms from the original Sanskrit text are "succour", "Videhan Queen ''.

In this pivotal moment from the epic Ramayana, Sita, under the illusion created by Maricha's cry ( a golden deer, magical form of Maricha ) ; Sita urges Lakshman to move from the bower for the rescue of their beloved husband, Ram. However, Lakshman, torn between his duty to obey Ram's command to guard Sita in the midst of the forest. Understanding the seriousness of the situation, she refuses to obey her words. Recognising the gravity of the situation and the potential danger, he steadfastly refuses to heed Sita's words. Sita, consumed by anger for Ram's safety,  directs bitter accusations towards Lakshman, questioning his loyalty both to her and her husband. In this tumultuous moment, Lakshman finds himself in an agonising predicament, torn between his unwavering devotion to his brother's orders and the emotional distress of Sita's allegations. 

The poem takes this story from the Ramayana and opens up the discussion between Sita and Lakshman, expanding it beyond what is present in the epic. Still, much of the core elements of their diolouge are preserved from the epic. first, Sita warns Lakshman to take heed of what are allegedly Rama's cries. When Lakshman tries to councel Sita otherwise, she accuses him of conspiring to bring Rama down and take her for his own wife. Lakshman is harmed by her words and finally bows to her wishes, drawing a circle with arrows that she is not to cross while he goes out to assist Rama. Despite the fact that Sita is enraged and has hurt Lakshman's feelings, however , he is calm, only speaking to bless Sita and pray that the deities of the forest will keep her safe when he leaves. The poem ends with a "sorrow dark" on Lakshman's face and a "Vulture scream" as he departs.

Sita's Allegations on helpless Lakshman:-

When Maricha's deceitful cries reached Sita's ears, she initially implored Lakshman to go to Ram's assistance. Her initial plea slowly transformed into a more earnest request, and eventually, it evolved into a furious reprimed directed at Lakshman. Throughout this episode, both Lakshman and Sita played prominent roles in the poem, while other characters such as Ram, Ravan, and the illusory golden deer Maricha remained offstage. In certain verses, we could discern the courageous valor of Ram through the arguments and words of Lakshman.

As Sita anxioly kept urging Lakshman to help and assist Ram as he believes her beloved husband is surrounded by the evil creatures, Lakshman tries to wipe out the causeless fear which exists there in her mind. Sita, overwhelmed by love, refused to heed his words. In her emotional state, she even threatened to go rescue Ram by herself if Lakshman didn't comply. 

"Oh no, and I must run alone,

For Further here I cannot stay;"

Lakshman, in his earnest attempt to reassure Sita, draws her attention to a captivating aspect of their situation. He shares with her the notion that the aura of lord Ram's power and strength knows no distinction between divine and malevolent beings. Even the most fearsome creatures of the forest, from serpents to pythons, are equally daunted by his might. It is as if an invisible tapestry of enchantment has been woven by their adversaries in the woods, crafting a web of deceit to cloud their minds.

"The Lion and the grisly bear

Cower when they see his royal look,...

Erect before in hooded pride."

Sita, noticing Lakshman's delay in rescuing his brother, began to question his loyalty and affection for Ram. She compared Lakshman to a star that only shines because of the sun's radiance and declared that he seemed insignificant without his brother's presence.

"But then thy leader stood beside!

Dazzle the cloud when shines the sun,

Reft of his radiance, see it glide

A shapeless mass of vapours dun;"

Sita taunted Lakshman by mentioning that one of Ram's brothers had taken his kingdom, and now another brother was seemingly trying to take his wife. These words were meant to upset him, but instead of getting angry, they deeply hurt Lakshman. He felt helpless because he couldn't defend himself against these accusations, as they came from his beloved brother, but he found the courage to stand up for Sita's sake.

…One brother takes

His Kingdom, -one takes his wife!

A fair partition!"

Lakshman decided to leave the shelter but had a responsibility to protect Sita from potential harm. Before he left, he drew a protective line around their space and asked Sita not to cross it, known as the "Lakshman Rekha." Despite Sita's accusations and complaints, he sought her blessings before departing, hoping to return quickly with Ram. Notably, he didn't look at Sita's face while taking her blessings, showing his deep respect for his. Brother's wife.

The poem concludes with Lakshman's hope that if he can't protect Sita, nature will come to rescue her. As he left their shelter, he heard the ominous of a vulture, a. Sign of impending trouble. This foreshadowed Sita's future challenges with the Lanka King, Ravan. 

"... Hoarse the vulture screamed,

As he strode with dauntless air."

In Toru's work, Sita is portrayed as an ordinary woman who is responsible for her life's struggle. While the story draws from the original Ramayana, it places a strong emphasis on nature and the concepts of good and evil spirits. However, the character of Lakshman remains true to the original text, reflecting his noble qualities and moments of helplessness. Toru's work transforms the mythological tale into a poem , presented in simple and straightforward language.

Conclusion:-

To sum up, this Poem "Lakshman" by Toru Dutt is that it highlights the inner conflicts and complexities of the characters, particularly women, responsible for her own struggles, while still maintaining the essence of these characters. Ultimately, it conveys the idea that even the most revered and legendary figures can be seen from different perspectives, with both strength and vulnerabilities. It encourages readers to view well - known stories and characters in a new light and to appreciate the depth of human experience within them.

Home and the World

 Thinking Activity:- Home and the World

Hello Readers! This blog is a response to the thinking activity which was assigned by Megha ma'am from the Department of English, MKBU. In this blog we have to write about general introduction of writer, characters and critical note of the novel The Home and the World.

About the Writer:-

Rabindranath Tagore:- 

Rabindranath Tagor was born in 7 may, 1861 and died in 8 August, 1941. He was an Indian poet, writer, playwright, composer, philosophers, social reformer and painter. He reshaped Bengali literature and music as well as Indian art with contextual modernism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Author of the "Profoundly sensetive, fresh and beautiful" poetry of Gitanjali, he becomes in 1913 the first lyricist to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. He was a fellow of the Royal Asiatic society. 

He is a Bengali Brahmin from Calcutta with ancestral gentry roots in Burdwan district and jessore, Tagore wrote poetry as an eight year old. Tagore Modernised Bengali art by rigid classical forms and resisting linguistic structures. His novels, stories, songs, drama, and essays spoke to topics political and personal. Gitanjali and Ghare-Baire are his best known works. His composition were chosen by two nations as national anthem: India's "Jana Gana Mana" and Bangladesh's "Amar Shonar Bangla". The Sri Lankan national anthem was also inspired by his works.

His notable Works are as below:-

• Gitanjali
• The Home and the World
• The Post Office
• Amar Shonar Bangla
• Glimpse of Bengal
• Balaka
• Gora

About the Novel:-

The Home and the World:-

"The Home and the World" is a Novel written by Rabindranath Tagore. The novel originally written in Bengali language under the title Ghare Baire in the year 1916 by Rabindranath Tagore. The novel illustrates the battle tagore had with himself, between the ideas of western culture and revolution against the western culture. 

These two ideas are portrayed in two of the main characters, Nikhilesh, who is rational and opposes violence, and Sandip, who will let nothing stand in his way from reaching his goals. These two opposing ideals are very important in understanding the history of the Bengal region and it's contemporary issues.

The Novel was translated into English by the author's nephew, surendranath tagore, with input from the author, in 1919. In 2005 , it was translated into English by sreejata guha for penguin books India. The Home and The World was among the contenders in a 2014 list by The Telegraph of the 10 all time greatest Asian novels.

Characters of the Novel:- 

• Bimla Choudhary
• The Sister - in - low
• Sandip Mukherjee 
• Amulya
• Nikhilesh Choudhary 

Critical Analysis of the Novel:-

The Home and the World by Rabindranath Tagore is a novel that explores the various themes , including nationalism, identity, love and clash between tradition and modernity. Here is the critical note or analysis of the novel.

Complex Characters:-

One of the strengths of the novel is it's well developed characters. Tagore creates characters who are multi dimensional and undergoes significant growth throughout the story. Nikhil's rationality and tolerence, Bimla's transformation from a traditional wife to an empowered woman, and sandip's charisma and radicalism all contribute to a rich character driven narrative.

Exploration of Nationalism:-

Tagore provides a critical examination of the nationalist movement in India during the early 20th century. Through the characters of Nikhil, who advocates for a more moderate and inclusive approach, and Sandip, who represents a more radical and militant perspective, Tagore presents a spectrum of ideologies within the nationalist movement. This allows readers to contemplate the complexities and moral dilemmas associated with the fight for independence.

Conflict Between Tradition and Modernity:-

The novel delves into the theme of tradition and modernity, particularly through the characters of Bimla. Her journey reflects the struggle faced by many women in a patriarchal society as they grapple with societal expectations and their desire for personal freedom and self expression. This conflict is a recurring theme in Tagore's works and is portrayed with great sensitivity.

Narrative Style:-

Tagore's prose is poetic and lyrical, reflecting his background as a celebrated poet. His writing style adds depth and beauty to the narrative, making it a work of both literary and philosophical significance.

Universal Themes:-

The Universal Themes is in the context of early 20th century India, It's themes and conflicts are universal. It speaks to broader issues of Love, loyalty, individuality, and the struggle to balance personal desires with societal expectations, making it relevant to readers across cultures and time periods.

The Role of the Women:-

In Rabindranath Tagore's novel "The Home and the World", the role of women is a central and complex theme that is explored through the character of Bimla and, to some extent, through other female characters as well. The novel provides a critical examination of the evolving roles of women in early 20th century India during a period of political and social upheaval. 

Conclusion:-

In conclusion, 'Home and the World' by  Rabindranath Tagore is a masterful work that provides a thought - provoking exploration of the complexities of human relationships, the evolving roles of women in society, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the multifaceted nature of nationalism. As a critical examination of the human experience and society's complexities, "The Home and the World" continues to be celebrated and studies for its enduring relevance and profound insights. It challenges societal norms and encourage critical thinking about the intersection of personal lives with political and social movements.

The Midnight's Children

 Thinking Activity:- The Midnight's Children

Hello Readers! This blog is a response to the thinking Activity which was assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Sinhji Bhavnagar University. In this blog I am going to discuss  some questions from the novel "Midnight Children's" by Salman Rushdie. 

Introduction of  Author:-

Salman Rushdie:-

Born:- 19 June, 1947

Salman Rushdie is a renowned British -Indian author and novelist who gained worldwide acclaim for his literary works, including his debut novel "Midnight Children's", which won the Booker Prize in 1947, in Bombay, India, Rushdie has had a prolific career spanning several decades.

Rushdie's writing is known for its intricate storytelling, rich prose, and blending of various cultural and historical elements. His works often explore themes of identity, migration, cultural clashes and the power of storytelling itself. While his writing is deeply rooted in his Indian heritage, it also reflects his experiences living in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Despite his literary success, Salman Rushdie became a controversial figure in the late 1980s due to the publication of his novel "The Satanic Verses", which sparked outrage and led to a fatwa issued against him by Iran's Ayatollah Khomeini in 1989. This Fatwa forced Rushdie into hiding for several years, but he continued to write and publish during this tumultuous period.

Salman Rushdie's body of work includes novels, essays, and non-fiction pieces that have continued to Captivate readers around the world. His contribution to the literary world has earned him numerous awards and honors, and her remains an influential and thought - provoking figure in contemporary literature. Beyond his literary accomplishments, Rushdie's life story also serves as a testament to the enduring power of free expression and the importance of defending artistic freedom in the face of adversity.

His Notable Works:-

• Midnight Children's
• The Satanic Verses
• Victory City
• Shame
• Imaginary Homeland
• The Golden House
• The Enchantress of Florence
• Joseph Anton: A Memoir

Introduction of Novel:-

Midnight's Children is a 1981 novel by Indian British writer Salman Rushdie, published by 

Jonathan Cape with cover design by Bill Botten, about India's transition from British colonial rule to independence and partition. 

It is a post colonial, postmodern and magical realist story told by its chief protagonist, Saleem Sinai, set in the context of historical events. The style of preserving history with fictional account is self-reflective. 

Midnight's Children sold over one million copies in the UK alone and won the Booker Prize and James Tait Black Memorial Prize in 1981. It was awarded the "Booker of Bookers" prize and the best all time prize winners in 1993 and 2008 to celebrate the Booker Prize 25th and 40th anniversary. In 2003 the novel appeared at number 100th on the BBC's The Big Read poll which determined the UK's "best-loved novels" of all time.

Themes of the Novel:-

• Religion
• Colonialism and Postcolonialism
• Identity and Nationality
• Fragmentation, 
• Memory and 
• Migration

In Salman Rushdie's"Midnight Children's", the themes of Fragmentation, memory and migration are intricately woven into the narrative, contributing to the complexity and depth of the novel. Here's an explanation of each of these themes:

Fragmentation:-

One of the Central aspects of "Midnight Children's " is the sense of personal Fragmentation experienced by the protagonist, Saleem Sinai, and other characters. Saleem is born at the exact moment of India's independence, and as a result, he sees himself as a representation of the nation itself. However, as he grows, he begins to feel fragmented , torn between different identities and allegiances. This personal Fragmentation mirror the larger post colonial experience of India, a nation grappling with its own divided identify.

 The novel reflects the broader Fragmentation of India as a newly independent nation. The country is divided along religious, linguistic, and cultural lines, leading to the partition of India into India and Pakistan, a traumatic event that shapes the characters lives and the narrative.

Memory:-

Memory is a recurring motif in "Midnight Children's". Saleem , as the narrator, acknowledges the unreliability of memory and the subjective nature of storytelling. His memory is selective, and he acknowledges that he may not remember events accurately. This emphasise the idea that individual and collective memories can be manipulated or distorted to serve particular narratives or agendas.

Rushdie uses memory as a narrative device to explore the connection between personal and national history. Saleem's memories are intertwined with the history of  india, and his personal experiences often reflect or parallel larger historical events. Memory becomes a way for the characters to make sense of their past and their identities.

Migration:-

"Midnight Children's" is a story of Migration on multiple levels. Many characters, including Saleem, migrate physically, leaving their ancestral homes for new places. This physical migration often reflects the larger migrations and displacement that occured during the partition of India. Additionally, there is a sense of cultural migration as characters navigate the complexities of India's cultural landscape. Migration in the novel is often accompanied by a sense of loss and displacement. Characters leave behind their homes and families surrounding, which can lead to feeling of root less ness and estrangement. This reflects the broader experience of many individuals and communities who were forced to leave their homes during times of political upheaval and conflict.

In the novel "Midnight Children's" these themes of Fragmentation, memory, and migration are interconnected and serve to highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of personal and national identity. They are central to the novel's exploration of how history, memory, and individual experience intersect and shape the characters lives and the broader narrative of postcolonial India.

Symbols in Midnight Children's:-

The Silver Spittoon:-

The Silver Spittoon given to Amina as part of her dowry by the Rani of Cooch Naheen is responsible for saleem's loss of memory. Even when he has amnesia, however, Saleem continues to cherish the Spittoon as if he still understands it's historical value. Following the destruction of his family, the silver Spittoon is the only tangible remnant of saleem's former life, and yet it too is eventually destroyed when saleem's house in the ghetto is torn down. Spittoon's once used as part of a cherished game for both old and young, gradually fell out of use: the old men no longer spit their betel juice into the street as they tell stories, nor do the children dart in between the streams as they listen. The Spittoon is the symbol of a vanished era, which, in retrospect, seemed simpler and easier. And so, although Saleem may not be able to recall the specific association between the Spittoon and his family, the Spittoon maintains its symbolic quality as both a container of memory and source of amnesia.

Perforated Sheet:-

The perforated sheet through which Aadam Aziz falls in love with his future wife performs several different symbolic functions throughout the novel. Unable to see his future wife as a whole, Aadam falls in love with her in Pieces. As a result, their love never has a cohesive unity that holds them together. Their love is fragmented, just as their daughter Amina's attempts to fall in love with her husband are also fragmented. 

The hole of the perforated sheet represents a portal for vision but also a void that goes unfilled. The Perforated sheet, in addition to preserving her purity, also reduces to her to nothing more than a voice. The sheet becomes a veil that separates her from the rest of the world and reflects her inability to accept affection.

Knees and Nose:-

Knees and Nose represents Shiva and Saleem. It's symbolise the power. When Aadam Aziz first knees down to pray, represent an act of prayer, as well as the submission and humility necessary faith. After hitting his nose on the ground, however, Aadam rejects that submission,  and a hole open up inside of him. Knees and Nose also become significant with farooq's death via a sniper bullet. Shot, Farooq first drops to his knees, then hits his nose on the ground. Just as Aadam bowed before God, Farooq bows before death. Knees and Nose just like Shiva and Saleem, destruction and creation, faith and humility are inextricably related.

Conclusion:- 

In essence, the conclusion of Midnight's Children leaves the reader with a sense of the enduring and complex relationship between individual and historical elements that shape their lives.  The novel Explores the themes of identity, memory and the postcolonial experience.  The novel also explores the symbols of Silver Spittoon, Pickles, Knees and Nose or  Perforated Sheet. Midnight's Children are a victims of their times.