VIVID PICTURES OF INDIAN SOCIETY AND CULTURE IN THE WRITINGS OF MANOJ DAS AND RUSKIN BOND: A STUDY

Abstract

This paper aims at discussing Indian society and culture as the central elements in the literary works of Manoj Das and Ruskin Bond. Both the writers present a distinct, yet balanced approach and visions of a multi-layered culture of the Indian society. To start with, it portrays how Manoj Das’s works are deeply rooted in the ethical, spiritual, moral and sentimental settings of Odisha representing entire India, the people, their moral values and cultural heritage. The narratives of Das also distinctly interweave myth, mysticism, humour, human pathos and realism demonstrating the co-existence of innocence and irony as present in Indian village life. In addition, his works reflect the conflict between tradition and modernity. Although, they are a subtle comment on the effect of modernisation, they glorify the logical, ethical and emotional values that lay the foundational base of Indian identity. In contrast, Ruskin Bond’s thought-provoking and realistic depiction of the Himalayan valleys, offers a tender and life-like portrayal of India’s socio-cultural and ecological landscape. The short stories of Bond present the characters from natural kingdom and capture the profound relationship between mankind and nature at the same time. They narrate the simplicity of rural life. Synthesizing Anglo-Indian origin as well as Indian influence on him, the paper portrays his love, compassion and exploration of India’s social milieu and atmosphere. Das’s literary compositions engaged with the metaphysical yet realistic aspects of Indian culture. Bond’s works deal with its everyday life and spiritual connections. Both the writers articulate an artistic vision of Indian social life that balances tradition and modernity, simplicity and grace, individuality and communal harmony. Through their aesthetic and socio-cultural concern, both the writers understand and personify the natural beings to express the moral and cultural awareness of India.