Untouchability and its social relevance as Portrayed in Untouchable by Mulk Raj Anand

The problem of untouchability and its social relevance as Portrayed in Untouchable by Mulk Raj Anand

Mulk Raj Anand's novel Untouchable is a powerful exploration of the deeply entrenched social evil of untouchability in India. Set in the 1930s, the novel provides a poignant portrayal of the life of Bakha, a young sweeper who belongs to the lowest rung of the caste hierarchy. Through Bakha's experiences, Anand exposes the harsh realities and indignities faced by those deemed "untouchable" by society.

The problem of untouchability, as depicted in the novel, is not just a matter of social discrimination but also a profound psychological and emotional burden on the individuals affected. Bakha is subjected to constant humiliation, isolation, and dehumanization solely because of his caste. He is denied basic human dignity, forced to live on the outskirts of society, and treated as polluted and impure by higher-caste individuals. This systemic oppression is deeply ingrained in the social fabric, perpetuated by religious and cultural beliefs.

Anand's portrayal of untouchability in the novel serves as a critique of the rigid caste system that devalues human life based on birth. The novel highlights the internalization of inferiority by the oppressed, as seen in Bakha's initial acceptance of his fate and his longing to be like the upper castes. However, it also shows the seeds of rebellion and the desire for change, as Bakha becomes aware of the injustices he faces and contemplates the possibility of escaping his caste-imposed destiny.

The social relevance of Untouchable extends beyond its immediate historical context. While the novel is set in pre-independence India, the issues it raises about caste discrimination and social inequality continue to resonate in contemporary society. Despite legal measures to abolish untouchability, caste-based discrimination and prejudice persist in various forms, affecting the lives of millions. The novel underscores the need for a deeper societal change, one that goes beyond legal reforms to address the underlying attitudes and structures that sustain caste oppression.

In conclusion, Untouchable by Mulk Raj Anand is a seminal work that sheds light on the inhuman practice of untouchability and its devastating impact on individuals and society. Through the character of Bakha, Anand not only evokes empathy and outrage but also challenges readers to confront the continuing legacy of caste-based discrimination in modern times.