Assignment Paper no. 202

 

Indian English Literature - Post - Independence 

Name:- Payal Bambhaniya

Batch:- M.A. Sem. 3 (2022-2024)

Roll no. :- 14

Enrollment no.:- 4069206420220002

Paper no.:- 202

Paper Name:- Indian English Literature - Post - Independence 

Topic:- Karna: The Voice of Subaltern 

Email ID:- payalbambhaniya92@gmail.com

Submitted to:- SMT S. B. Gardi Department of English, MKBU.

About Writer:-

T. P. Kailasam :-

Tyagraj Paramasiva Iyer Kailasam , born in 1884 and passing away in 1964, was a prominent playwright in Kannada literature. Literary criticism in Kannada literature is said to have started for the first time by Kailasam in his works. His contribution to Kannada theatrical comedy earned him the title Prahasana Prapitamaha ( the great-grandfather of humorous plays). He was later often revered as "the one and only Kailasam for Kannada". Hailing from a Tamil Iyer Brahmin family in Mysore, Karnataka, he made significant contributions with plays.

Kannada Plays:

•   "ToLLu Gatti"
•   "Poli Kitti"
•   "Bahishkar"
•   "Vaidyana Vyadhi"
•   "Huttadalli Hutta"
•   "Anukoolakkobba"
•    "Sattavana Santhapa"

English Plays:

•    "Fulfilment"
•   "Purpose"
•    "The Brahmin's Curse"
•    "Simply Kailawesome"

T. P. Kailasam showcased his versatility as a playwright by creating works in both Kannada and English, exploring a diverse range of themes and narratives across these plays.

Kailasam's life was dedicated to local theatre and his Contributions revolutionsed it. His Humour left an impression on Kannadigas. He opposed the Company theatre's obsession with mythology and stories of royalty and shied away from loading his Plays with music. Instead he introduced Special realistic Sets. Kailsam was initially Criticised for modern use of the Kannada language in his Plays at a time when the language was used under Strict linguistic syntax and Semantics. But , soon after his works became very Popular and are Considered among the best in Kannada theatre, known for wit and Satirical Commentary on Society. 

Kailasam turned his hand to mythological themes also but treated them in English. He was a moralist , but he had the Subtlety needed to carry off his moralising. His appreciation of what was really noble in traditional ways of living , added a grace to his Plays. He created the new vogue for the Satirical social Play which Proved that Powerful Prose with Penetrating humour could do away with tinsel attractions of music , Setting and Costume. T.P.Kailasam died in the City of Bengluru in the state of karnataka in the year 1946.

The Curse of Karna /The Brahmin's Curse :-

Title: "The Brahmin's Curse"

Author: T. P. Kailasam

Inspiration: Derived from the Mahabharata epic

Protagonist: Focuses on the character of Karna 

Central Theme: Explores Karna's struggles resulting from a curse

Structural Division: The play is organised into five acts

Act 1 - Gurujee Raama 

 " POOR KARNA! POOR, POOR KARNA ! " 

In Act 1, Gurujee Raama establishes a tone of pity for Karna, foreshadowing the impending misfortunes in Anga. This early expression of sympathy serves as a precursor to the tragic events that will unfold.

Act 2 - Gaandhaara 

 " POOR ANGA ! POOR POOR HONEST ANGA!"

In Act 2, the depiction of Anga as "POOR POOR HONEST ANGA" in the land of Gaandhaara emphasizes his virtuous character and the challenges he endures. This portrayal underscores his integrity, evoking sympathy from the audience.

 Act 3 - The King Suyodhan 

 " The King POOR ANGA ! OUR POOR GREAT ANGA!"

In Act 3, King Suyodhan enters the narrative, expressing empathy for Anga by referring to him as "OUR POOR GREAT ANGA." The repetition of "poor" intensifies the compassionate sentiment felt for Anga, emphasizing the emotional depth in the play.

 Act 4 - Bheema  

 ( Anga Crumples into Bheema's arms who carries him out muttering amid tears : " POOR ANGA! POOR GREAT ANGA ! " The THRONE ROOM , empty now , is exposed for a minute before - ) 

In Act 4, the poignant scene unfolds with Bheema cradling Anga, lamenting "POOR GREAT ANGA." This moment serves as the culmination of Anga's tragic journey, eliciting deep sympathy from the audience.

 Act 5 - Aswattha and Maadra 

  " OUR ANGA! " OUR GREAT ANGA ! 

[ " OUR POOR POOR ANGA " ! ]

In Act 5, the expression of grief by Aswattha and Maadra for "OUR GREAT ANGA" cements Anga's status as a beloved character. The cumulative effect of these acts and scenes creates a powerful emotional arc, portraying Anga as a figure of immense sympathy and honor in the play.

"The Curse of Karna" is a play written by T.P. Kailasam, a prominent playwright in Kannada literature. The play is centered around characters and events from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata, with a particular focus on Karna, a central character known for his tragic fate. In this play, Kailasam explores Karna's life, his inner struggles, and the moral dilemmas he faces. The themes of fate, loyalty, and the consequences of one's choices are delved into, providing a unique perspective on Karna's character and adding depth to his portrayal in the Mahabharata.

"The Curse of Karna" is divided into five acts and was initially published on September 10, 1946, with a subsequent republishing on July 29, 1969. The setting of the play is Raama's Ashram. Throughout the play, the narrative revolves around the character of Karna, focusing on how he is marginalized due to his subaltern identity. The play also explores the sufferings Karna endured throughout his life, culminating in his painful death at the hands of his own brother.

"The Curse of Karna" is highly esteemed for its compelling storytelling and nuanced character development. It holds a significant place in Indian literature and theatre, providing valuable insights into the complex and tragic figure of Karna from the Mahabharata.

Karna: The Voice of Subaltern:-

Karna, a key figure in the Mahabharata, represents the "Voice of Subaltern." Subaltern means those who are socially marginalized or excluded. Karna's story is marked by challenges due to his lower caste background, reflecting the struggles of the marginalized in society. Despite facing discrimination, Karna's loyalty, bravery, and tragic fate make him a powerful symbol of resilience. His story resonates with those who identify with the underprivileged, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice.

Despite the challenges and hardships in Karna's life, he possessed extraordinary qualities that set him apart. His spirit of sacrifice and generosity was evident in his daily acts of charity. People, including Brahmins, would eagerly wait for Karna to finish his morning ablutions, as he was known for never turning anyone away empty-handed. On one occasion, a Brahmin (who was, in fact, Indra in disguise) asked Karna for his divine armor and earrings, which were inseparable from his body since birth.

Realizing the Brahmin's true identity, Karna willingly fulfilled the request. He took a sword, cut off his earrings, and tore away the armor, causing blood to flow from his body. Despite the pain, Karna handed the blood-soaked armor and earrings to Indra. This selfless act was witnessed by the gods and celestial beings gathered in the sky, who showered flowers on Karna and sang his praises. Indra, moved by Karna's sacrifice, appeared in his divine form and offered him a boon. Karna humbly asked for the powerful weapon Amogha Shakti, which Indra granted with the assurance that it would never fail in destroying the enemy and would return to its owner afterward.

What is Subaltern Theory?

Subaltern theory comes from post-colonial studies and focuses on the voices and experiences of marginalized groups often ignored by dominant narratives. It seeks to grasp the perspectives of those historically silenced due to factors like caste, class, gender, race, or nationality.

Subaltern studies explore the intricate power dynamics and resistance, uncovering hidden histories and struggles of communities. This challenges established hierarchies and encourages a more inclusive understanding of social and political issues.

Karna as a Voice of Subaltern:-

Subaltern: The Marginalized Voices

Subaltern refers to populations socially, politically, and geographically outside the legitimate power structure of the colony and its homeland. In the context of Karna, he's a tragic character with a tragic fate, marginalized by gurus, warriors, princes, Panchalee, and kings.

The term "Subaltern" was coined by Ranjit Guha and later adopted by Marxist Antonio Gramsci. Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak further discussed it in her essay 'Can the Subaltern Speak?' People often view subaltern as an unpresented group in society, considering them inferior and incapable of making real contributions. However, in reality, subaltern can speak, but others lack the patience to listen, as seen in Karna's story—he's capable but labeled as suta putra, limiting his voice in society.

Karna in the Mahabharata: A Marginalized Figure

Karna, a character in the Mahabharata, faced marginalization due to his social and family background. Although born to Queen Kunti, he was abandoned and raised by a charioteer, which gave him a low-caste status. This upbringing made him an outsider in the Kuru dynasty, where caste and lineage held significant importance. Despite his talents, Karna experienced discrimination, being denied the rights and recognition usually granted to a prince.

Karna's narrative resonates as a voice of the subaltern, representing those marginalized by societal norms. His quest for recognition, unwavering loyalty to Duryodhana despite moral dilemmas, and tragic fate bring attention to the plight of those pushed to society's fringes. Karna challenges social hierarchy, highlighting the unjust treatment based on birth rather than ability. He becomes a symbol of subaltern struggles, fighting against a system that marginalizes individuals.

Karna, a prominent figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata, embodies the subaltern in several ways:

1.Social Marginalization:Born to a low-caste mother and abandoned, Karna faced societal discrimination due to his caste, reflecting the struggles of the subaltern against social oppression.

2. Identity Struggle:Karna's lifelong quest for recognition mirrors the challenges subaltern individuals face in asserting their identity in a society dominated by the privileged.

3.Solidarity with the Dispossessed:Karna aligns with the marginalized, reflecting a subaltern perspective that advocates for the rights of the oppressed.

4. Quest for Justice: Despite his disadvantaged position, Karna's commitment to justice echoes the subaltern's desire for a fair and equitable society.

5. Complex Character: Karna's multifaceted character mirrors the diversity within the subaltern, showcasing the complex experiences and struggles within this community.

Conclusion:-

Overall,Karna's fate is a tragic one, marked by circumstances beyond his control. Despite the inevitable tragedy that befalls him, Karna remains a sympathetic character, depicted as a victim of circumstances and grappling with internal conflicts. Karna's journey in the Mahabharata serves as a poignant representation of the subaltern narrative, shedding light on the challenges, aspirations, and resilience of those who are marginalized in society.

Word Count:- 1, 716

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