Bharatipura and Kanthapura: A Critical Examination of Revolutionary Ideals and Their Futility in Post-Independence India

• Author(s): Parashurama Murthy. G ; V. R. Rameshbabu
• Paper ID: 1700673
• Page: 71-75
• Published Date: 31-05-2018
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 1 Issue 11 May-2018

Abstract

This paper explores U.R. Ananthamurthy's novel Bharatipura as a narrative that critiques the futility of revolutionary ideals when confronted with the complex realities of societal structures. Through a detailed analysis of the protagonist Jagannatha, the paper draws parallels with historical and political figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, emphasizing the disillusionment that arises from idealism unmoored from practical realities. The novel is positioned as a mirror to an era of post-independence India, where the aspirations of social reformers often collide with entrenched caste dynamics. Indian literature of this era reflects these aspirations, with numerous works exploring the possibilities and challenges of social change. Among these, Raja Rao's Kanthapura and U.R. Ananthamurthy's Bharatipura stand out as critical examinations of revolutionary ideals. While Kanthapura portrays a successful collective struggle inspired by Gandhian principles, Bharatipura presents a more disillusioned view, critiquing the futility of isolated revolutionary efforts. This paper seeks to explore the contrasting approaches to social reform in these two novels, examining how they reflect the broader socio-political landscape of post-independence India. The comparative analysis with other literary works, such as Raja Rao's Kanthapura, further underscores the uniqueness of Bharatipura's approach to social critique. The paper concludes that Bharatipura serves as a poignant reminder of the limitations of individual efforts in the face of deep-seated societal hierarchies.

Keywords

post-independence India, caste dynamics, revolutionary ideals

Citations

IRE Journals:
Parashurama Murthy. G , V. R. Rameshbabu "Bharatipura and Kanthapura: A Critical Examination of Revolutionary Ideals and Their Futility in Post-Independence India" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 1 Issue 11 2018 Page 71-75

IEEE:
Parashurama Murthy. G , V. R. Rameshbabu "Bharatipura and Kanthapura: A Critical Examination of Revolutionary Ideals and Their Futility in Post-Independence India" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 1(11)