Chapter -1

Introduction
Indian English literature is the body of work by writers in India who write in the
English language and whose native or co – native language is one of the numerous language
of India. It is associated with the works of members of the Indian diaspora who are of Indian
descent. It is frequently referred to as Indo - Anglian literature. In 1793, Sake Dean Mahomed
wrote the first book entitled The Travels of Dean Mahomed. Thomas Babington Macaulay’s
1835 Minutes on Education in British as the medium of instruction, he aimed to create a class
of people with Westernized values. He believed that English education would serve as a tool
for social and cultural transformation. Thus, Macaulay’s Minutes laid the groundwork for the
English – medium education system in India. Hence, most early Indian writing in English was
non – fictional work, such as biographies and political essays. Rabindranath Tagore was a Bengali

polymath who was active as a poet, writer, playwright, composer, philosopher, social
reformer, educationist and painter. Among his fifty and odd volumes of poetry are Manasi
(1890) The Ideal One, Sonar Tari (1894) The Golden Boat, Gitanjali (1910) Wreath of
Songs, and Balaka (1916) The Flight of Cranes. One of the first non-European to win a
Nobel
Prize in the field of Literature on November 14, 1913.
Nissim Ezekiel was an Indian Jewish poet, actor, playwright, editor, and art critic. With his
contributions to Indian English poetry, Ezekiel is a key figure for post-colonial literature in
India and is also considered the father of Modern Indian English poetry. Among his best-
known works are Time To Change (1952), The Discovery of India (1956) along with his two
renowned poems Goodbye party for Miss Pushpa T.S(1976) and Night of The Scorpion
(1985). Kamala Das is an Indian poet in English and the author in Malayalam. She has lent
much to Indian writings in English with her works ranging from women’s issues, and child
care to politics. Das’ best-known works include An Autobiography (1973), Alphabet of Lust
(1976), The Descendants (1967), The Old Playhouse and Other Poems (1973), and
Padmavati the harlot (1992). Kamala Das has received Nobel Prize in literature (1984), some
of her other achievements include Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Story (1958)–
Thanuppu(1984), Kendra Sahitya Academy Award, and the Asian Poetry Prize(1963).Toru
Dutt is a Bengali translator who wrote predominantly in English and French. Born in
tumultuous times, Dutt’s writings explore the themes of loneliness, longing, patriotism, and
nostalgia. Being a polyglot and with both of her parents interested in writing, Toru Dutt took
off under their wing, drawing upon her travels and exposure to different cultures to draft her
works. Toru Dutt’s best-known works include , A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields(1880),
Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan(1882’)
English language has united Indian who are otherwise linguistically divided into many
languages. Indian – English literature today has a wide readership transcending the boarder of
the states and the nation. And the great Indian literary Trio, Mulk Raj Anad, Raja Rao and
R.K Narayan play a pivotal role. They represent the quintessence of the nation that has seen
hegemonies, caste wars, poverty and the freedom struggle. Among later writers, one of the
most famous work Midnight’s Children (Booker Prize 1981, Booker of Booker 1992 , and
Best of the Bookers 2008), ushered a new trend of writing. Nayantara Sehgal was one of the
first female Indian writers in English to receive wide recognition. She was awarded the 1986
Sahitya Akademi Award for English, for her novel , Rich like Us (1985), by Sahitya
Akademi.. Anita Desai who was shortlisted for the Booker Prize thrice received Sahitya
Akademi Award in 1978 for her novel Fire on the Mountain (1972) and a British Guardian
Prize for The Village by the sea (1982). Her daughter Kiran Deasi won the 2006 Man Booker
Prize for her second novel, The Inheritance of Loss (2006). Ruskin Bond received Sahitya
Akademi Award for his collection of short stories Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra in (1992).
He is also the author of historical novel A Flight of Pigeon,(1857), which is based on an
episode during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Vikram Seth, author of The Golden Gate (1986)
and A Suitable Boy (1994) a self – confessed fan of Jane Austen, his attention is notable both
as an accomplished novelist and poet. Another writer who has contributed immensely to the
Indian English Literature is Amitav Ghosh, the author of the Circle of Reason (1986), The
Shadow Lines (1988), The Calcutta Chromosome (1995), and Sea of Poppies (2008).
Robinton Minstry in an India born Canadian author who has received Neustadt International
Prize for Literature Laureate (2012). His first book Tales from FirozshaBaag (1987) is a
collection of 11 short stories and his novels Such a Long Journey (1991) and A Fine Balance
(1995) earned him great acclaim.
 Dalit Literature refers to the literary works created by writer from the Dalit community,
who are historically marginalized in India. This literature often addresses themes of social
discrimination, untouchability and caste – based oppression. Notable Dalit writer include
B.R.Ambedkar, Bama ,K.Ayyappa Panikar’s works, including Annihilation of Caste (1936) is
a critique of the caste system and advocates for social equality. Bama Faustina, a Tamil Dalit
feminist writer, gained recognition for her automatically, Karukku (1992), which sheds light
on the discrimination faced by Dalits within the Christian community in Tamil Nadu. K.
Ayyappa Paniker, a Dalit poet and academician, often reflect the struggles and aspirations of
Dalit community. His notable work includes Porutunna Soundaryam (The Broken Beaty).
Valmiki, a Hindi poet and author, is renowned for his autobiography Joothan (1989), which
vividly portrays the life and challenges faced by Dalits in rural Uttar Pradesh.
Marathi Dalit writer, Bagul’s short story collection Jevha Mi Jaat Choli Hoti (1978) explore
the harsh realities of caste discrimination in Maharashtra. Another Marathi Dalit feminist
writer, Pawar insights into the intersectionality of caste and gender is his renowned work.
Daya Pawar’s Baluta (1978) is a powerful autobiographical account that portrays the
struggle
and deprivation faced by the Dalit community.
Dalit literature emerged in response to the social, economic, and cultural oppressed faced
by the Dalit community in India. It traces its roots to the early 20th century and gained
momentum in the mid – 20th century. Over the years, Dalit literature has diversified,
encompassing various genres such as novels, short stories, plays, and poetry, reflecting a rich
tapestry of Dalit literature is an essential and powerful genre that emerges from the
experiences, voices and struggles of the Dalit community, historically marginalized and
discrimination against in the Indian caste system. By portraying Dalit culture, traditions and
customs, this literature challenges stereotypes and promotes a more comprehensive
understanding of the diversity within Indian society.
Moreover through the stories of resilience, resistance, and empowerment among Dalit
literature inspires individuals within the community to assert their rights and challenge the
status quo. It also cultivates a sense of pride and self – worth, fostering empowerment among
Dalit individuals and communities. By amplifying Dalit voice, this genre contribution
significantly to building a more just and inclusive society and serve as a medium through
which Dalit writer can articulate their unique experiences, perspectives, and struggle allowing
them to reclaim their narratives and assert their identities.

“The pen is mightier than the sword, for the pen can shape minds and change hearts.” Says
Mahaseta Devi the one such writer who reverberates the strident voice of the Dalits. She used
her writing as a medium to amplify Dalit voices, and advocates for social change and justice.
She was a versatile personality known for her literary contribution, particularly in
highlighting the struggle and issues faced by marginalized communities, especially tribal and
indigenous people. Devi was born into a distinguished family with strong ties to the cultural
and intellectual heritage of Bengal. Her father, Manish Ghatak was a well-known poet and
novelist, and her mother, Dharitri Devi, was a writer and social worker. The family’s progress
ideals and commitment to social causes greatly influenced Devi’s world view.
Following the partition of India in 1047, Mahasweta Devi moved to west Bengal with her
family. She completed her intermediate studies at Beltala Girl’s High School in Kolkata.
Despite later enrolled at Santiniketan in 1936, the renowned educational institution found by
Rabindranath Tagore. She embraced the open and motivative environment of Santiniketan,
which emphasized creativity and intellectual exploration. At Santiniketan, she engaged with a
diverse range of subjects, nurturing her literary and intellectual interests. After completing her
studies at Santiniketan, Devi furthered her education at Vishva Bharati University West
Bengal Here, she delved deeper into literature, philosophy and social issues, shaping her
worldview and laying the foundation for her future literary endeavours.
Through her academic journey, Devi displayed a keen interest in social justice issues, a
theme that would become central to her later works. Her literary career is characterized by a
prolific output of powerful and socially relevant works that spanned a variety of genres,
including novels, short stories plays and essays. Her writing, deeply rooted in her experience
and observation, reflected a keen understanding of socio-political landscape, particularly the
struggles marginalized communities. Devi short stories, often drawing inspiration from real-
life incidents, were equally impactful.
Mahasweta Devi’s Jhansir Rani (1956): focuses on the glorious plight of Rani of Jhansi ,the
historical figure in Indian history. Agnigarbha (1974) is a novel that explores the struggles of
a tribal community in the context of industrialization, Hajar Churashir Ma (1974) is a
powerful novel that deals with the emotional aftermath of political violence, bringing her
widespread acclaim, Aranyer Adhikar (1979) is a novel delves into the rights of forest –
dwelling communities, particularly tribal groups. Draupati (1979) is another poignant short
story that highlights the struggles of a tribal woman, drawing parallels with the character
Draupati from the Mahabharata, her ability to merge folklore, mythology and contemporary
issues in her narratives showcased her literary dexterity.
Apart from her fiction , Mahasweta Devi actively engaged with socio- political issues through
her essays and journalistic endeavours. She used her pltform to advocate for the rights of
indihgenous people, Dalits and leaving an indelible mark on Indian literature and the
discourse on social justice. Devi’s works remain testament to the transformative power of
literature challenging societal norms and advocating. Devi’s Awards include Sahitaya Award
(1979) for her significant contribution to literature , recognizing her excellence in storytelling
and social themes. Jnanapith Award (1996) one of the highest literary honors in India ,
awarded for outstanding contribution to Indian literature. Ramon Magsaysay Award (1997)
honored for her compassionate crusade through art and activism, addressing the issues of
India’s tribal communities. Padama Vibhushan (2006)