Chapter IV
Conclusion
Mulk Raj Anand’s Untouchable is the story of Bakha, a young man who belongs to
the lowest caste of Hindu society, the “untouchables.” Though he faces discrimination and
hardship at every turn, Bakha perseveres, determined to make something of his life. Bakha
lives in a village in India, where the caste system is still very much in effect. As an
untouchable, he is not allowed to enter the homes of upper-caste Hindus or to use the same
wells and temples as they do. He is forced to clean toilets and carry night soil and is treated
with contempt by almost everyone he meets. Despite all this, Bakha is a hard worker and a
good person. He is kind to his family and friends and dreams of one day becoming a clerk
so that he can help improve the lives of his fellow untouchables. However, Bakha’s dream
is never realized. Though he works hard in school and earns a government job, he is
constantly held back by the discrimination of those around him. In the end, he is forced to
resign from his job and return to cleaning the toilets.Despite the difficulties he faces, Bakha
never loses hope. He continues to dream of a better life for himself and his people and
remains determined to make a difference in the world.Untouchable is a powerful story of
hope and resilience in the face of discrimination. It is an inspiring tale of one man’s struggle
to improve the lives of those around him and a reminder that even the most difficult
circumstances can be overcome with perseverance and determination.
Mulk Raj Anand, a prominent Indian writer, is known for his poignant and socially
conscious writing style. His works often delve into the harsh realities of Indian society,
particularly focusing on the lives of the underprivileged and marginalized. Anand's prose
is marked by a compassionate and empathetic tone, as he skillfully portrays the struggles
and injustices faced by the common people. Through vivid descriptions and detailed
characterizations, he brings to life the everyday challenges and triumphs of individuals,
fostering a deep connection between the reader and the characters. Mulk Raj Anand is
widely acknowledged for his adept portrayal of social issues within the context of his
fiction, contributing significantly to the shaping of modern Indian literature. Anand's
literary works serve as a powerful mirror reflecting the social realities and inequalities
prevalent in pre-independent India. Through novels like "Untouchable," he skillfully
exposes the harshness of caste-based discrimination, bringing attention to the plight of the
marginalized. Anand's narratives are marked by a nuanced exploration of poverty,
exploitation, and the human condition, showcasing a keen awareness of social nuances.
India faces a myriad of social issues that impact various facets of its diverse
population. Caste-based discrimination persists despite legal measures, with marginalized
communities, particularly Dalits, facing social exclusion and unequal opportunities. Gender
inequality remains a pervasive issue, reflected in issues like unequal pay, limited access to
education for girls, and societal norms that perpetuate gender bias.Poverty is a significant
challenge, contributing to issues such as malnutrition, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of
basic amenities for a substantial portion of the population. Religious and ethnic tensions
occasionally lead to communal conflicts, highlighting the need for communal harmony and
understanding. Access to quality education and healthcare is often uneven, exacerbating
disparities between urban and rural areas.
Untouchable displays many events like the inhuman attitude of the upper caste
people towards the untouchables. Anand’s Untouchable demonstrates a journey of Bakha,
the protagonist, from social oppression to emancipation. This kind of situation, however, is
not of Bakha’s,it is the representation of the situation of the entire untouchables. Anand has
shown Hindu casteism, a means of social oppression and his portrayal of Bakha’s
emancipation through the emergence of consciousness in him.It symbolizes the new
generation of untouchables and the oppressed entering into emancipation and freedom in
the days to come. For further emancipation of untouchables and to create harmonious
society, consciousness of the high caste people towards the problems of untouchability and
their upliftment are equally essential.
