The Joys of Motherhood

Thinking Activity: The Joys of Motherhood:

 Hello Everyone! This blog is response to the thinking activity , assigned by Megha Ma'am. In this blog discuss some questions which are mentioned in the task.

Introduction of Writer: Buchi Emecheta 

 Florence Onyebuchi 'Buchi' Emecheta ( 21st July 1944 - 25 January 2017) was a Nigerian - born novelist. She wrote plays and an autobiography, as well as works for children. She was the author of more than 20 books, including ' Second Class Citizen' ( 1974), ' The Bride Price' ( 1976), ' The Slave Girl' ( 1977), 'The Joys of Motherhood' ( 1979). Most of her early novels were Published by Allison and Busby, Where her editor was Margaret Busby. 

Due to the gender bias of the time, the young Emecheta was initially kept at home while her younger brother was sent to school; but after Persuading her parents to consider the benefits of her education, she spent her early childhood at an all- girls missionary school. Emecheta's themes of child slavery, motherhood, female independence and freedom through education gained recognition from critics and honours. She once described her stories as; 

Novels :- 

•  In the Ditch ( 1972)
•  Second Class Citizen ( 1974)
• The Bride Price ( 1976)
• The Slave Girl ( 1977) 
• The Joys of Motherhood ( 1979) 
• Naira Power ( 1982) 
• The Rape of Shavi ( 1983) 
•  Kehinde ( 1994) 
• The New Tribe (2000) 

 Autobiography :- 

• Head above Water ( 1984 - 1986) and Others. 

About the Novel:-  The Joys of Motherhood 

The Joys of Motherhood is a novel that is written by Buchi Emecheta in an attempt to treats the socio - cultural and economic challenges that Nigerian women face in an urban setting. It gives and exposes the obstacle a woman goes through when she is unable to produce child in marriage. Emecheta in her work of art detail a story of a young Igbo woman who dreams of leaving a traditional life as a mother of many children. Instead, she spends her life in Lagos, Nigerian, Watching as traditional values are eroded and destroyed by western influence. The hope and dream she has toward being the mother of many children turns out to be misplaced and her entire life is simply a struggle for survival with no reward in an old age. 

 'The Joys of Motherhood' - Published in the year 1979, is Buchi Emecheta's fifth novel and one at her most popular novel. The novel centered on the role of women in Nigerian society. The Protagonist of this novel is Nnu- Ego. Nnu - Ego grows up in Ibuza where she honours her father and her mother's memory, her greatest wish in life being that of becoming a mother. Buchi Emecheta narrates the entire life of Nnu-Ego : her two marriages, the loss of her first son, the spectre of infertility and its consequence within a traditional family society like the one Nnu-Ego belongs to, but also the relocation from her village to the city of Lagos and, literally, the Joys of Motherhood - living through the hopes and tribulations of the many children she will have. 

The story takes us back us back to Ibuza town, the place of birth of Nnu-Ego, Nnu-Ego was a beautiful girl and so captured the interest of many men in her village and even beyond. First, she was married to Amatokwu in a Lavish wedding ceremony, but the marriage turn sour because she was not bless with an issue after many years of marriage and that is why Amatokwu takes another wife and Nnu-Ego was derided and treated as barren woman. 

There is no great honour for a woman in an Ibo village than to have children- especially sons. Unable to conceive in her first marriage, Nnu Ego is sent away to a new husband in the city of Lagos, where she finally succeeds in becoming a mother. But things are changing, and a war that unfolds thousands of miles away threatens her family's fortunes and her entire way of life. So, It is evident in the context of the novel that; 

"In a world where motherhood is everything, what will be left for her at the end of it all ?"

Q. 1 The most celebrated female character in African creative writing is the African mother.'' by Marie Umeh according to this , Is the character of Nnu Ego celebrating motherhood or not? - Explain. [ With the reference of one article titled, The Joys of Motherhood :  Myth or Reality? by Marie A. Umeh] 

In Buchi Emecheta's novel, The Joys of Motherhood, one witnesses the collapse of these glorifying images of the African Mother. As a literary artist preoccupied with promoting change, author Emecheta, an iconoclast, breaks away from the prevalent portraitures in African writing in which motherhood is honorific. Children do not always maintain strong and loving ties with their mothers throughout adulthood.  As Emeheta states in her novel that ; 

 " The joy of being a mother is the joy of giving all to your children.'' 

The title of the book, which is taken from Flora Nwapa's novel, Efuru, is then significant and bitterly ironic.  Dazzled by ambitious sons educated outside of traditional Igbo values, Nnu Ego breaks down and her old secure world gives way to a new one.  Fully conscious to the irony in her life, she says ; 

 ' A woman with many children could face a lonely old age and may be a miserable death all alone, just like a barren woman.' 

Here, In the present novel Buchi Emecheta constructs a wholly different set of economic, socio - political and cultural imperatives which diverge from the existing literary models.   The Joys of Motherhood is the most complex and difficult of Emecheta's five published novels. The book's complexity arises out of the dramatization of the place of motherhood in Igbo society. At the level of realistic narrative, Emecheta tends to present a far more well rounded and multi-dimensional character, emphasizing the problems that afflict a woman because of her blind adherence to tradition. Of particular interest to this author are the problems of polygamy (Jealousy among wives and the inequity of some husbands), the problems of the childless wife in a society that honors fertility, the problems of women married to weak men, the problems of widows. Emecheta does not dwell on the perfections of the mother. Instead she draws spirited individuals, not without faults. In this book, the mother figure is described in a variety of situations. One witnesses the mother sacrificing herself for her children, fighting with her husband in order to get financial support for the children, protecting her children from their father's wrath, correcting her children and suffering because of their absence, their revolts against traditional customs, their needs. 

Unlike most African male writers who revere their mothers in autobiographies, recalling their mothers' affection, Buchi Emecheta records the troubled and chaotic moments in a mother's life. Apart from the positive aspects of motherhood, author Emecheta records the turmoil and anguish of women who long for children and of mothers who worry about their children. 

Buchi Emecheta's artistic growth as a writer, demonstrated in her prolific use of literary devices such as flashback, interior monologue and Bildungsroman, is stylistically exciting. For example, Emecheta employs the technique of the Bildungsroman-novel of formation-to underscore the development of the protagonist's mind and character as she nlatures and recognizes her role in life. She also skillfully uses flashbacks to weave together crucial information central to the development of the plot and to the full understanding of her characters' relationships to both the external and spirit worlds. 

The Joys of Motherhood is a good example of an African Bildungsroman. The book tracing  Nnu - Ego's Personal development from the time she is newly married until her old age. Nnu Ego's growth from a staunch traditionalist to a feminist, when she discovers after many years that motherhood has not brought fulfillment, is cleverly drawn. In 'The Joys of Motherhood', however one is eased right into Nnu - Ego's unconscious mind as well as into her thoughts. For example, in explaining her temporary nervous breakdown following the loss of her first son named Ngozi, Nnu - Ego laments that ; 

                                      "But I am not a woman any more! I am not a mother any more. The child is there, dead on the mat. My chi has taken him away from me. I only want to go in there and meet her...''

Here,  Nnu Ego puts forth traditional Igbo ideas as well as the role of one's chi in the psyche of an Igbo person.  But gradually a chain of disasters in Nnu Ego's life awakens her to the reality of her unrewarding years of suffering and sacrificing for her children. Nnu- Ego Says ; 

" I was born alone, and I shall die alone. What have I gained from all this? Yes, I have many children, but what do I have to feed them on? On my life. I have to work myself to the bone to look after them. I have to give them my all. And if I am lucky enough to die in peace, I even have to give them my soul. They will worship my dead spirit to provide for them: it will be hailed as a good spirit so long as there are plenty of yams and children in the family, but if anything should go wrong, if a young wife does not conceive or there is a famine, my dead spirit will be blamed. When will I be free?"

Although this book is valuable as a feminist work, it lacks strong feminist consciousness and ideology in form. Neo - Feminist works, in general are controlled by the dynamics of struggle. 

 'Realizing too late that a single woman can be happy even though she has no children.' 

For example, Flora Nwapa's protagonist Efuru in the novel, Efuru, challenges many accepted mores and assumptions in the Igbo community when it was not popular to do so, just like Adaku. Efuru leaves her husband Gilbert when he falsely accuses her of committing adultery, and does so without sharing the sense of failure the community dictates she should. Emecheta falls short of being a serious feminist writer in that her nlain character, Nnu Ego, acquires her raised consciousness to personhood only as the book closes. Although her character Adaku serves as a model of the liberated woman who conducts herself as a "free woman" and provides us with a glimpse of how an African woman conducts herself as a separated mother with two children, we have yet to see a realistic novel which describes a fully liberated heroine who lives an independent life as a respectable human being within African society. Because of the conservative sexual mores expected of women in the Igbo community, Adaku, by renouncing her marriage to Nnaife, choosing to live alone. 

In this novel, The Joys of Motherhood' Buchi Emecheta extends her metaphor of the enslaved Igbo woman, arguing that the society also programs women to be slaves of their male offspring as well as their husbands.  In describing the joys, author Emecheta is at her best in the irony implied in the title. Children give joy, we all agree. From this premise, she builds an elaborate story to demolish the myth, while at the same time pretending to uphold the age-old idea. Indeed, a mother of sons should be happy; such happiness should help her to bear the grind of poverty. 

Thus, Nnu Ego gradually realizes that motherhood has not brought fulfillment. After years of sacrificing everything for her family, our heroine is forced to understand that ; 

                                  '' the joy of being a mother was the joy of giving all to your children.'' 

It is also an account of her gradual awakening, and the beginning of her self affirmation.  Nnu Ego is a realistic heroine who is not totally defeated. Although she does not achieve authentic selfhood in her lifetime, her commitment to her sisters lies in her refusal to passively watch them be fenced in by housewifely duties and have too many children that bring abundant economic and emotional strains. 

Conclusion :- To conclude, Buchi Emecheta's 'The Joys of Motherhood'  stands as a model for other African women writers who wish to portray the actual condition of women and their responses to their condition and the actual possibilities of overcoming barriers and achieving individuality.

Question 2 :- The basic narrative lends itself towards neo - feminism. The main female characters struggle to shed the conditioning that forces them to act out  roles that bring little fulfillment. With reference to this, study The Joys of Motherhood by applying a feminist theory. 

Answer :-  The Joys of Motherhood narrates the story of a traditional woman, Nnu- Ego who knows her identity and its completion in having many children, especially the boy one. suffering from poverty, she knows herself rich, for she has three sons. Having detailed Nnu- Ego's painful life in Lagos, a colonized city, the novel ends with her tragic death alone. Yet, far from being devoted to her children exposing her Joys of Motherhood. Nnu- Ego dies at the end of the story, a lonely death ; 

 '' With no child to hold her hand and no friend to talk to her. she had never really made many friends, so busy she had been building up her joys as a mother."

Through depicting the oppression and suffering Nnu - Ego experiences in Lagos, Buchi Emecheta indeed highlights the effects of capital politics and colonial patriarchal regimes in Third world women's marginalization and domination. Four Waves of feminism are there. 

The first wave of feminism focused on women's suffrage, or the right to vote. Activists during this time period fought for women to have the same political rights as men. 

The second wave of feminism, also known as the women's liberation movement, sought to address a broader range of issues, including reproductive rights, equal pay, and ending discrimination and violence against women.

 

The third wave of feminism was characterized by a focus on intersectionality or the idea that different forms of oppression, such as racism, classism, and homophobia, intersect and compound one another. This wave also saw the rise of feminist activism on the internet and the use of social media to mobilize and organize.

The fourth wave of feminism, also known as intersectional feminism, continues to build on the principles of the third wave and emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the feminist movement. This wave has also seen the rise of the #MeToo movement, which aims to expose and challenge sexual harassment and assault.

As the story of invisibility and Marginalization of women who have no voice. Emecheta's The Joys of Motherhood aims at rewriting an integral part of history which has been dismissed. Indeed, Emecheta seeks to speak for Ibuza women being multiply marginalized and oppressed by a colonial and indigenous patriarchal  society. Hence, Emecheta as a Nigerian woman is the best person to rewrite the story of marginalization and suffering of nigerian women and her novel is an essential source of knowledge about them. Western feminism does not mean radical feminism based on which men are considered as women's greatest enemy. For instance, Ona is a proud woman With a male power. Adaku, a representation of independent women, struggles for her independence and freedom. Nnu - Ego, a traditional woman who accepts, the superiority of man and she always tries to be a good daughter for her father, a good wife for her husband and a good mother for her children. 

 "women are not as a singular monolithic subject. Even when they share the same culture, they are still different." 

In that way Buchi Emecheta explored the condition of Ibuza woman. Third world women to speak for themselves.  Adankwo, is the representation of those women who have accepted their fate. Internalizing the patriarchal values and norms, she herself cooperates in the oppression of Nnu Ego and Adaku. Hence, regarding Women as a category of analysis or, in other words, as a homogenous group, as Mohanty suggests that ; 

 '' results in an assumption of women as an always already constructed group, that has been labeled powerless, exploited, sexually harassed, and so on."  

The Joys of Motherhood and the issue of Gender :- 

 Beside criticizing colonialism, capitalism and racism, The Joys of Motherhood Points out the ways in which women are silenced oppressed by native patriarchy and, however, this oppression is not mediated by race or class. Unlike other black feminists who merely struggle to expose African women's racial oppression within the colonial society or the effects of racism on Afro - American women, Emecheta attemps to highlight black women's oppression within the patriarchal IGBO society as well. she in her novels criticizes the way in which the patriarchal tradition views Igbo women and dominant them. she goes further to give voice to the subaltern African women  through her female characters.  

Reading Emecheta's new critical view, Bazin asserts that ; 

 'Buchi Emecheta's heroine Nnu- Ego in The Joys of Motherhood ventures into feminist consciousness, the awakening of self to the inequities in Igbo cultures, such as son preference, polygamy, rigid sex roles, and a glorification of motherhood, which all render women powerless.' 

 

Besides criticizing colonialism, capital economic and racism Emecheta, in The Joys of Motherhood' questions African oppressive patriarchal tradition in which women have been dominated, disempowered and disregarded for a long time. However, the effects of colonialism, capitalism and racism reinforce the undermining and marginalization of women. Thus, it documents the fact that through her novels, Emecheta is going to give a self - understanding of African women. In other words, she attempts to reform the quality of African women's lives.  

Enecheta in The Joys of Motherhood, attemps to depict the African women's marginalization, oppression and suffering within the polygamous system. she is going to expose how women are subject to emotional abuse, their sexual pleasure is dismissed and oppressed by male violence. Even, they are not permitted to say a word of complaint because they are women : the forbidden 'other' and the subject of domination. Hence, how they can question the male authority? 

Adaku was the complete opposite of Nnu Ego, she could give birth to a boy child but she knew the importance of education and educated her daughter. Adaku joined prostitution for her earnings and decided to be an independent woman. While Nnu Ego was afraid of losing her respect in society and so she refused prostitution and worked in the fields to enjoy her motherhood. Adaku aptly presents neo - feminism. On the other side, Nnu - Ego loses herself in a path  of empowering herself with a mother. There is a Irony presented in the title of the novel - 'The Joys of Motherhood' in which Buchi Emecheta tries to present the sufferings and loneliness of African mothers through the main character of the novel, Nnu - Ego. 

Conclusion :- To Conclude, 'The Joys of Motherhood' is an extraordinary novel which unfolds the story of invisibility and marginalization of African women who have no voice, aims at reconstructing part of history which is dismissed. This novel attempts to explore the extent to which the colonialism, racism and Patriarchal society dominated Third world women and their lives. According to Palmer ( 1972); 

  'The Joys Of Motherhood' is the first work in African literature to present the female point of view in registering its disgust at male chauvinism and Patriarchy's satisfaction with an oppressive system towards women.'  

Here, I am embedding the video of classroom Introductory presentation on this novel - The Joys of Motherhood given by my classmate - Trushali Dodiya. 

References :- 

(PDF) a Study of Buchi Emecheta’s the Joys of Motherhood in The ..., www.researchgate.net/publication/333296130_A_Study_of_Buchi_Emecheta’s_The_Joys_of_Motherhood_in_the_Light_of_Chandra_Talpade_Mohanty_A_Postcolonial_Feminist_Theory. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.

“Buchi Emecheta: The Joys of Motherhood.” YouTube, 5 Sept. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=19PjQ8c3U4s&pp=ygUXVGhlIGpveXMgb2YgbW90aGVyaG9vZCc%3D. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.

Dodiya , Trushali. “The Joys of Motherhood/Buchi Emecheta/African Literature/Classroom Presentation/SEM 4.” YouTube, 25 Jan. 2024, www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGbHIyABBt4&t=258s&pp=ygUnVGhlIGpveXMgb2YgbW90aGVyaG9vZCcgdHJ1c2hhbGkgZG9kaXlh. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.

“The Joys of Motherhood, by Buchi Emecheta Summary | African Writers | African Literature.” YouTube, 26 Sept. 2021, www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1RlkLgVA3A&t=12s&pp=ygUXVGhlIGpveXMgb2YgbW90aGVyaG9vZCc%3D. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.

Umeh, Marie A. “The Joys of Motherhood: Myth or Reality?” Colby Library Quarterly, vol. 18, no. 1, March 1982, pp. 39-46. https://digitalcommons.colby.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2471&context=cq. Accessed 19 February 2024.

Vallath , Kalyani. “The Joys of Motherhood - Net | Set | African Literature Series Part XIX.” YouTube, 7 Aug. 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJZ5V44bfB4&pp=ygUtVGhlIGpveXMgb2YgbW90aGVyaG9vZCcga2FsbHlhbmkgdmFsbGF0aCBtYWFt. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.

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Revolution 2020

 Thinking Activity : Revolution 2020

Hello Everyone! This blog is based on the novel Revolution 2020, assigned by Dilip Barad sir. In this blog i will discuss about questions which are mentioned in the task.

Introduction of Writer: Chetan Bhagat 

Chetan Bhagat, born April 22, 1974, is an influential Indian author, columnist, and YouTuber. He gained recognition for his novels, many of which have been adapted into films. Growing up in a traditional Punjabi Hindu family with a father in the Indian Army and a scientist mother, Bhagat initially was an average student but discovered his passion for writing during school. He earned a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Delhi and an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad.

With thirteen books to his name, including bestsellers like "Five Point Someone" and "2 States," Bhagat's works have garnered widespread popularity. Beyond writing, he's been a judge on the TV show "Nach Baliye" and appeared in Netflix's "Decoupled." He's also active on YouTube, offering motivational content and hosting the podcast "Deeptalk with Chetan Bhagat," where he interviews successful individuals about their journeys. Additionally, Bhagat is sought after as a motivational speaker, inspiring young Indians with his straightforward approach.

His Novels:

• Five points Someone (2004)
• One Night at The Call Centre (2006) 
• The 3 Mistakes of my Life (2008) 
• 2 States (2009) 
• Revolution 2020 (2011)
• Half Girlfriend (2014)
• One Indian Girl (2016)
• The Girl in Room 105 (2018)
• One Arranged Murder (2020)
• 400 Days (2021)

R{ƎVO⅃}UTION TWENTY20:

"Revolution 2020" by Chetan Bhagat, published in 2011, is a story about love, corruption, and self-discovery. It revolves around three friends: Gopal, Raghav, and Aarti. Gopal dreams big but gets caught up in corruption while trying to achieve success. Raghav, on the other hand, is passionate about fighting corruption through journalism. Aarti, the love interest of both, symbolizes their conflicting aspirations. The novel explores the complexities of relationships and the challenges faced by youth in contemporary India, questioning the meaning of success in a society plagued by corruption and inequality. 

Five of chetan Bhagat's novels have been adapted into films :- 

• Hello (2008) – Based on the book "One Night at the Call Center"
• 3 Idiots (2009) – Based on the book "Five Point Someone"
• Kai Po Che! 
• 2 States (2014) – Based on the book "2 States"
• Half Girlfriend (2017) – Based on the book "Half Girlfriend" 

Non - fiction :- 

•  What Young India Wants (2012)
•   Making India Awesome ( 2015) 
• India Positive ( 2019) 

Q. 1  Social realism of curruption in the private education system.

Chetan Bhagat's novels often reflect issues in contemporary Indian society, especially focusing on themes like the education system, corrupt politics, and the challenges faced by young people. In "Revolution 2020," he highlights corruption in India's education sector, particularly in coaching classes for competitive exams. Bhagat's stories revolve around the lives and struggles of youngsters, shedding light on their experiences and the societal issues they encounter.

Thus, this core group of characters presents a Metro city from the filthy rich to the marginalized poor. Corruption is one of the major theme of this novel.  The life of students at Kota is very hard. They spend a lot of hours on study. The realistic theme of students’ life is given here. Bhagat writes about a day in the life of aspiring students in Kota : 

 'I could call myself a true Kota ite a month into moving there. Like thousands of other students, my life now had a rhythm. Career Path resembled a school, but without the fun bits. Nobody made noise in class, played pranks on one another or thought of bunking classes. After all, everyone had come here by choice and had paid a big price to be here …'

'Lectures started at two in afternoon and went on until nine in evening. After that students rushed home to eat dinner, and do the ‘daily practice sheets’, a set of ten problems based on the current lesson … I went along with madness, not so much because of the zeal to prepare, but more because I wanted to keep myself busy. I didn’t want Kota’s loneliness to kill me.' 

  The novel is an ambitious with a bunch of characters and themes, set in Indian city. The story moves from Varanasi to Kota and again to Varanasi. Moving from place to place, Bhagat’s characters keep floating in the novel and do not stick to one incident. They keep achieving their goals, trying to link up plot of the novel but too little avail. Bhagat has tried to reveal the mind of his characters. The author in the novel has given minute details of corruption in Indian politics, administrative, and educational system. Corruption has burrowed Indian political, social, and educational system. Talking about corruption Chetan Bhagat says ; 

 'In India, one question is constant: why isn’t corruption going away? The question baffles the educated middle classes. Why is a reasonable, universal and noble demand for an honest society so difficult to achieve in a democracy? And why is it that corrupt parties win election time and time again.'

 MLA shukla is a political leader and most corrupt man of Varanasi. He was the only one who helped Gopal in finding private institution and also taught him that how to pay people.  On the other side, Raghav is the protagonist and Journalist who fights against corruption and wants India as the corruption free country. Corruption not only made hole in Indian political system but has also spread in educational system. 

Indian parents are extra careful about the future of their children. Gopal’s father wants his son to be an engineer from India’s top most colleges. His father is a retired teacher and involved in a court case against his elder brother. Gopal in his first attempt for AIEEE fails to score the required marks. After getting known Gopal’s low score his father does not talk properly with him. Gopal tells his father that he wants to do B.Sc. His father cannot control his anger and says ; 

 Gopal, “who gives a good job to a simple graduate? ''

   Parents and teacher who without seeing their son’s ability send him to Kota. Prateek tells Gopal.

“Most of us can’t crack these tests, basic probability. But who will drill it into our parents’ head?”

 Raghav’s father is not interested in NIT and tells his son to do engineering from IIT. The hopes of Indian parents are bigger than their children. Chetan Bhagat makes Raghav’s character as one of the most idealistic characters among his all the characters as he has put his own views through this character. Raghav in the novel plays the role of an activist who wants to bring change in Indian society by eradicating the corruption. He for the sake of society declines his job offer of and joins as a reporter at newspaper agency. His inner desire does not keep him quiet so he starts his own newspaper, Revolution 2020. 

'kota now had small coaching shops to coach you to get into the top coaching classes. from there, you would be coached to get into an engineering college.'

The novel criticizes how private coaching classes for courses such as IIT, JEE exploit aspiring students. Indian parents put their hope and desires on relying these private coaching classes that is why their children can crack tests and they bring change the fortune of their middle class family. The novel - Revolution 2020 explores the reality of the private coaching industry which thrives on corruption and scams. Ambitions or aspirations of youth is the important theme that the novelist handled in this present novel. 

 Raghav aspires for his desire that he wants to be social reformer. His aspirations to change the world through social reformation and movement. He wants to see the society as a corruption free society. He thinks that his article on Ganga cleaning scam brings somewhat changes in the political system. In the very beginning of the novel Aarti and Gopal love to each other but in the middle of the story, she was attracted towards Raghav who has cracked IIT JEE exam in his first attempt. But he does not want to do engineering. He wants to be journalist. Raghav said that  'Journalism is my passion.'  Raghav attempts to change the world through his first article published in newspaper ; 

 What do you say about a society whose top leaders are the biggest crook? What do you do in a system where almost anyone with power is corrupt? India has suffered enough. From childhood we are told India is a poor country. Why? There are countries in this world where an average person makes more than fifty times that an average Indian makes. Fifty times? Are their people really fifty times more capable than us? Does an Indian farmer not work hard? Does an Indian student not study? do we not want to do well? Why, why are we then doomed to be poor?

In "Revolution 2020," Raghav aims to ignite change in Indian society through his writing. He sees corruption in politics, private coaching institutions, and colleges run by unqualified owners as major issues. Determined to combat these problems, he becomes a journalist. Chetan Bhagat explores social evils, political corruption, and the struggles of the youth in this novel, with a focus on love, ambition, and societal injustice. Through Raghav's journey, Bhagat sheds light on the aspirations of young people, the challenges of finding employment, and the prevalence of corruption in private education. Overall, "Revolution 2020" delves into social issues, realism, and the pursuit of change in contemporary Indian society.

Q. 2 Contemporaray relevance of Raghav's journalism. ( The Youtuber / Social Media Journalism )

  “Revolution 2020” is an attempt to highlight the corruption rooted in India’s education system and bring out the anomaly of education. The fiery activism of Raghav who wants to bring about a change in society through journalism, despite having graduated as an engineer. He says that ; 

  “This has to stop. We have to clean the system. Che Guevara, the great revolutionary, once said, ‘Power is not an apple that falls from a tree into your lap. Power had to be snatched from people who already have it.’ We have to start a revolution, a revolution that resets our corrupt system. A system ,that shifts power back into the hands of the people and treats politicians like workers, not kings.”

 Raghav, who gets admission to IIT, turns to be a sort of idealist. Even though he gets a job, he turns to journalism as the way to clean up the society. He gets a partial success, but has financially drained. He can only circulate his publication “Revolution 2020” less than 500 copies. Yet he can bring out the secret deals of Shukla and succeeds in sending him to jail. That affects the future of Gopal as his business deals are also closely connected with the politician. But Gopal realizes that Raghav’s path is right and sacrifices his love for Aarti and makes her turn away from him. She finally selects Raghav. The narrative is unbalanced because it is being narrated by Gopal, so all the characters that grace this novel are told as what they mean to Gopal. But Raghav ends the story still hoping for a bright corruption free nation.  Raghav’s strength is that he is very intelligent, sincere and also ambitious. It is through him Chetan Bhagat tries to convey his message. 

Life is not all about making and working just for the sake of earning money. One has to follow his dreams; this is the message brought out through Raghav.

 Raghav is the most inspiring character in “Revolution 2020”. Though Raghav had good academic profile and is selected in many colleges he gave up all those offers just to become a journalist and through his writings he decides to root out the evils from his corrupted city or nation as a whole. He is ready to bring a revolution against everything corrupt and wrong happening in the society. He strongly believes that someone has to stand up against the system to reform the society.  The character of Raghav wants to expose the corrupt education system, the profit making private education sectors and issues of bribes, etc. 

 “Revolution 2020. That’s his goal. That India must have a full-blown revolution by 2020. Power will be the youth. We will dismantle the old corrupt system and put a new one in place.”

 Raghav is the most inspiring character in “Revolution 2020”. Though Raghav had good academic profile and is selected in many colleges he gave up all those offers just to become a journalist and through his writings he decides to root out the evils from his corrupted city or nation as a whole. He is ready to bring a revolution against everything corrupt and wrong happening in the society. He strongly believes that someone has to stand up against the system to reform the society.  The character of Raghav wants to expose the corrupt education system, the profit making private education sectors and issues of bribes, etc. 

 “Revolution 2020. That’s his goal. That India must have a full-blown revolution by 2020. Power will be the youth. We will dismantle the old corrupt system and put a new one in place.”

Independent Journalist:-

karan Thapar:

Karan Thapar is an Indian Journalist, news presenter and interviewer working with The Wire.  Known for his aggressive interviews with leading figures, Karan Thapar has navigated through various media houses since 1981. His unyielding questioning even made waves during an interview with the current Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, showcasing the impact of fearless journalism. 

 Karan Thapar on You tube

Ravish Kumar:

Ravish Kumar is an Indian Journalist, author and media personality. He was the senior Executive Editor of NDTV India.  Ravish Kumar stands as a beacon of true journalism, reporting on the ground realities and issues faced by ordinary Indians. His sharp insights and integrity have earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, and his term ‘Godi Media’ has become a household term for media channels driven by political and corporate interests. 

Punya Prasun Bajpai:

Punya Prasun Bajpai is an Indian Journalist. He has worked at several news networks in his career. An accomplished journalist and writer, Punya Prasun Bajpai’s in-depth knowledge of Indian politics is evident in his body of work. Notable for his program ‘Masterstroke,’ Bajpai left ABP News due to perceived government pressure, showcasing his commitment to unbiased reporting. 

Abhisar Sharma:- 

Abhisar Sharma is an Indian Journalist, Television news Anchor and Author.  A seasoned journalist and anchor with a career spanning from 1995 to 2018 in mainstream media, Abhisar Sharma has since transitioned to freelance journalism. His outspoken and emotional approach to reporting, notably in instances like discussing the tragic death of a small Muslim child, reflects a deep concern for the country’s well-being. 

Devanashi Joshi:

Devanshi Joshi is a Gujarati Journalist who is containing the spirit of independent media. she is also a senior producer of the company. Moreover, she runs a news- based youtube channel.

Devanshi Joshi on You tube

Jamavat You tube channel

Rajdeep Sir Desai:

Rajdeep Sardesai is an Indian News Anchor, reporter, Journalist and Author. 

Rajdeep Sardesai on You tube

Shyam Meera Singh:-

Shyam Meera Singh is an Indian Journalist and Youtuber. He was working with Aaj Tak, but was fired from Aaj Tak because he did tweet critical to PM Narendra Modi. 

He was awarded with connecting alumnae of the year from Indian institute of Mass communication. He also started his own Youtube channel in May 2022. 

Shyam Meera Singh on YouTube

8. Dhruv Rathee :- 

Dhruv Rathee is an Indian Youtuber, Vlogger and social media activist. He is known for his Youtube videos on social, political, and environmental issues. He introduced the satirical "fake news" segment Pee News and, in 2020, initiated the Dhruv Rathee Vlogs channel for international travel vlogs.

Q. 3 Do You think that an opprtunity of a good novel is wasted because the story is wasted because the story is told from gopal's perspective? can it be better if narrated from raghav or aarti's perspective? How would it be better if it was narrated from raghav or aarti's perspective ?

Chetan Bhagat's novel - Revolution 2020 is told from the perspective of Gopal. He himself is the narrator of the story. Chetan Bhagat - Author of the novel is present as a character. Gopal belongs to poor family and his father was a Farmer. Gopal is a character who faces various challenges and moral dilemmas throughout the plot. By doing corruption Gopal becomes the director of Ganga Tech college. When we read the story from Gopal's perspective and point of view,  the narrative may lack depth and seriousness as R2020 comes under the classification of popular literature and it lacks high seriousness and sincerity. 

Raghav Kashyap is an idealistic character who is passionate about bringing change in society. He belongs to upper class family and cracked JEE exam in first attempt. But, followed his passion and becomes journalist as he wants to bring change and reformation in the society. If the story is told from Raghav's perspective, as a reader we might get a deeper insight into his motivations, struggles and societal issues. 

Looking at the story through Aarti's perspective could given us a different view of the love triangle. Her character, even though important in the love story. Seeing things from her side could shown us more about her feelings, thoughts and the tough choices she has to make between two men who want her. But, In my views Narrating the story from Aarti's Perspective, readers can only know about her love relations rather than anything else. But, Three of these characters from Chetan Bhagat's novel Revolution 2020 Played very important role. 

 Gopal's Perspective - Corruption 

 Aarti's Perspective - Love 

 Raghav's Perspective - To Bring Revolution

  Through these characters we can understand that they are connected with each other and presented the core concern of the novel in their own unique and different way. 

Conclusion:-

To Conclude,  Revolution 2020 is a thought provoking novel that explores the deep - seated corruption and lack of opportunities in India's education system and society at large. Through the stories of its main characters, Gopal, Raghav and Aarti, Chetan Bhagat highlights the struggles faced by the youth in pursuing their dreams and aspirations. 

 While the characters Journeys are fictional, the underlying issues addressed in the book resonate with the harsh realities faced by many young Indians.'Revolution 2020' is a compelling novel that leaves the reader with a sense of hope for a better future, if corrective measures are taken to the existing system.  

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Film Review and Comparative Study of 12th Fail

Hello everyone! Welcome to my blog where I review the movie "12th Fail," directed by the acclaimed Vidhu Vinod Chopra. This blog is part of an task given by Dilip Barad sir, and it aims to delve into the educational challenges depicted in the film. During the screening, I came across various intriguing articles and videos that helped enhance my understanding of the themes portrayed. Let’s explore these insights together!

(Articles and Videos)

12th Fail: Film Review and Comparative Study

Introduction:-

The film "12th Fail," based on the book by Anurag Pathak, follows the journey of a small-town boy aiming to become an IPS officer despite numerous obstacles. It highlights the challenges faced by aspirants from humble backgrounds in cracking the UPSC exams. The movie faces criticism for its monologue and exposition problems, with characters being introduced based on their righteousness, and the love story between Manoj and Shraddha feeling rushed and convenient. However, it's criticized for its monologue issues and rushed love story between the protagonist and Shraddha. (Tyagi)

Theoretical Framework :-

Hear are some frames which i have noticed during film screening:

Beginning of Book and Film:

In the movie, it begins with a long drone shot focusing on a small object, while in the book, it starts with Manoj reading loudly to exaggerate because there are ladies nearby who can hear him.

Frame of Grandmother and Gun:

In a significant scene, when someone arrives to deliver the letter of Manoj's father's suspension, his grandmother is depicted saying, "Nikal bandhuk (Gun Out)."

The article delves into the theme of caste privilege depicted in the movie, pondering how the trajectory of the main character would have unfolded had he belonged to a Dalit background. It juxtaposes the character's relatively smooth journey with the harsh realities faced by Dalits, including discrimination, humiliation, and limited opportunities. By highlighting the privileges afforded to the character due to his caste, the article underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing systemic inequalities. It calls upon individuals from privileged castes to reflect on their advantages and actively work towards dismantling caste-based barriers. In doing so, it shifts the burden of creating a more equitable society away from Dalits and onto those who have historically benefited from caste privilege.

Another article based on privilage on caste:

In the movie, Sharma performs poorly during the interview stage of the competitive exams but is unexpectedly given another chance. This turn of events raises questions about the motives and biases of the members on the interview board. While the film doesn't delve into the social composition of the board, such favors are typically not easily granted. Sharma's struggle with comprehending simple English, despite being a third-generation individual, adds complexity to the situation. The article suggests that the sympathetic treatment Sharma receives from the interview board is unusual, as all India civil services officers are not selected in this manner. Hence, this occurrence is portrayed as the biggest miracle in the movie.

Frame of 3 People:

In a particular scene, the movie shows three characters together in one frame.

In this frame, a person's shoulder with a camera suggests they are merely a spectator to the unjust events happening to Manoj's father, highlighting their lack of power to resist.

Power and Government:

In a particular frame, corrupt individuals in power, including the village headman, manipulate both the villagers and the police. As a result, the police arrest Manoj, his brother, and their rickshaw, showcasing the influence of corruption within the system.

In one scene, corrupt village leaders control both the villagers and the police, leading to the arrest of Manoj, his brother, and their rickshaw, highlighting the pervasive influence of corruption in the system.

Sound:

In the film, sound plays a crucial role, particularly in representing the characters of Manoj and Shraddha. Manoj's world is depicted with low and soothing sounds of traditional instruments, reflecting his rural and traditional background. On the other hand, Shraddha's world is accompanied by modern sounds like piano, representing her more urban and contemporary lifestyle. When the two characters come together, their distinct sounds merge, symbolizing their union and the blending of their worlds. This merging of sounds is evident in scenes such as when they come together, and also when Manoj is reading a letter written by Shraddha, where the sound transitions from traditional to modern instruments, reflecting their connection and the bridging of their differences.

Shoes as Metaphor :

In a significant frame during Manoj's interview, the camera focuses solely on his shoes. This moment captures his discomfort and fear before reading Shraddha's letter, symbolized by his tight shoes. However, after reading the letter and realizing that Shraddha will marry him regardless of the outcome, he becomes more relaxed and confident. The shoes serve as a metaphor for his initial anxiety and later carefree attitude towards the job interview, reflecting his newfound confidence and assurance.

Contextualization:

In the Indian education system, there's a big focus on landing government jobs, often seen as the ultimate goal. But lately, issues like leaked exam papers have made it harder for honest, hardworking folks to succeed. In a new film, the story centers on Manoj, a rural guy trying to crack the tough UPSC exams. It sheds light on the challenges faced by small-town and village kids who lack access to good education and face stiff competition. The film also talks about how despite efforts for inclusivity, English and regional biases still dominate India's administrative services.

Thematic Study:

The film tackles big themes like how education can change lives, corruption in schools, the importance of mentors and connections, and the debate between merit and privilege. It follows Manoj's journey, showing how his integrity and determination help him fight corruption and social barriers. His bond with a former cop highlights the victory of idealism over pessimism.

There is one article based on this "The Changing Priorities of Education in India: A Worrisome Shift Mirrored in Popular Films and Fictions"(Barad)

The exclusive focus on government job exams brings several negative consequences. Firstly, it fosters a 'herd mentality,' where diverse talents are overlooked as students chase limited posts. Secondly, the intense focus on exam preparation sidelines genuine learning and skill development. Thirdly, neglect of arts, humanities, and vocational subjects occurs as students opt for stereotypical 'safe options.' Finally, the intense competition gives rise to coaching centers, promoting spoon-feeding over self-study. The popular media portrayal of the craze for government jobs underscores the urgent need for educational reforms that prioritize diverse talents and knowledge for its intrinsic value.(Barad)

Comparative Analysis:

Aspirants:

The film "12th Fail" shares common ground with the popular web series "Aspirants" by TVF, both focusing on characters preparing for the UPSC exam while facing personal challenges. However, some feel that the supporting characters in "12th Fail" lack depth compared to those in "Aspirants." For example, Gauri in "12th Fail" is reminiscent of Sandeep bhaiyya from "Aspirants," but doesn't have the same level of development.

Super 30:

The film "12th Fail" can be compared to "Super 30," another movie that explores the impact of education on overcoming systemic barriers. "Super 30," a biographical drama starring Hrithik Roshan, focuses on how education can help transcend the constraints of caste and class. While "Super 30" celebrates academic achievement and the life-changing power of education, "12th Fail" looks at the struggles and challenges of navigating a corrupt educational system. Both films highlight the theme of education as a tool for transformation but from different perspectives and societal issues.

Aarakshan:

The film bears similarities to other memorable films about the UPSC like "Aarakshan". However, the two differ significantly in their gender representations. While Aarakshan focused on upper caste, upper class male protagonists, this film locates its hero in a more diverse social setting.

Conclusion:

After being initially captivated by the movie, I've started noticing some concerns upon repeated viewings and thinking critically. Differences from the original book, like added scenes with the grandmother and changes in Manoj's educational journey, make me question the film's fidelity to the source material. The movie mainly focuses on Manoj's UPSC preparation, but a two-hour film can't fully capture his entire life as the book does. Perhaps a longer format like a series could have done justice to the nuances of the story.

Despite these issues, the film tells a powerful story of hope and resilience in the face of social challenges like corruption and discrimination. It sheds light on the aspirations and struggles of small-town youth, resonating with many young Indians dreaming of a better future. In this way, the film contributes to important discussions about education, employment, and building an inclusive society.

References:-

Bahl, Vikas, director. Super 30. Phantom Films Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Reliance Entertainment HRX Films, 2019.

Barad, Dilip. “(PDF) The Changing Priorities of Education in India: A Worrisome Shift Mirrored in Popular Films and Fictions.” ResearchGate, 16 November 2023, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375641812_The_Changing_Priorities_of_Education_in_India_A_Worrisome_Shift_Mirrored_in_Popular_Films_and_Fictions. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Bhardwaj, Kartik. “'12th fail' movie review: Too long a ted talk.” The New Indian Express, 28 October 2023, https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2023/Oct/28/12th-fail-movie-review-too-long-a-ted-talk-2627608.html. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Chopra, Vidhu Vinod, director. 12th Fail. Vinod Chopra Films, 2023.

Jha, Prakash, director. Aarakshan. Base Industries Group Prakash Jha Productions, 2011.

Karki, Apoorv Singh, director. Aspirants. The Viral Fever Media Labs, 2021.

Mandal, Dilip. “12th Fail not about Vikrant Massey's struggles but his caste privilege.” ThePrint, 3 January 2024, https://theprint.in/opinion/12th-fail-isnt-just-about-vikrant-masseys-struggles-its-really-about-his-caste-privilege/1908789/. Accessed 17 January 2024.

“Real-Life Inspiration: Indian Films Based on True Stories | 'Super 30', '12th Fail', 'Mission Raniganj.'” Outlook India, 24 November 2023, https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/-super-30-to-12th-fail-indian-films-based-on-real-life-stories-that-inspire-news-332692. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Satkar, Shubhangi. “12th fail Movie and Hidden Caste privilege: A Critical Analysis from Dalit Perspective.” दलित टाइम्स (दलित टाइम्स), 15 January 2024, https://dalittimes.in/twelfth-fail-movie-and-hidden-caste-privilege-a-critical-analysis-from-dalit-perspective/. Accessed 17 January 2024.

Tyagi, Sucharita. “12th Fail Movie Review — Sucharita Tyagi | by Sucharita Tyagi | Medium.” Sucharita Tyagi, 27 October 2023, https://sucharitatyagi.medium.com/12th-fail-movie-review-sucharita-tyagi-2aea58e90fd3. Accessed 18 January 2024.

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