Sharat Chandra’s novel, ‘Mahesh’: Exploitations and Inequities prevalent in Indian society

Mahesh: Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay

(Exploitations and Inequities prevalent in Indian society)

Q. How does Sharat Chandra’s ‘Mahesh’ expose the exploitations and inequities prevalent in Indian society in his times?

Answer: Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel "Mahesh" was first published in 1929, and it is set in the early 20th century in rural Bengal. The novel exposes the exploitations and inequities prevalent in society in his times, particularly in the context of the Indian caste system.

The novel portrays the life of Mahesh, a poor farmer who struggles to make ends meet in a society that is highly stratified based on caste and class. Mahesh is an outcaste and belongs to a lower caste, and as a result, he faces discrimination, exploitation, and social exclusion. He is denied access to basic amenities like water, education, and healthcare, and he is forced to work in exploitative conditions to earn a living.

The novel also highlights the oppressive role of moneylenders and landlords who take advantage of the poor farmers like Mahesh. They charge exorbitant interest rates, forcing farmers to borrow more and more money to meet their basic needs, and eventually trapping them in a cycle of debt and poverty.

Sharat Chandra's novel exposes the harsh reality of the caste system and its impact on the lives of marginalized communities in India. It portrays the exploitative nature of the upper-caste society towards the lower castes and the social exclusion they face. It also highlights the economic exploitation of poor farmers by moneylenders and landlords who take advantage of their vulnerability.

In addition, "Mahesh" also explores the theme of gender inequality prevalent in Indian society during the early 20th century. The novel portrays the lives of women in rural Bengal, who are denied basic education and are expected to follow strict gender roles.

The female characters in the novel, including Mahesh's wife and daughters, are portrayed as powerless and oppressed by the patriarchal society they live in. They are denied the freedom to make their own choices and are expected to conform to the societal expectations of being obedient, submissive, and domesticated.

Furthermore, "Mahesh" also highlights the impact of colonialism on Indian society. The novel takes place during the British Raj, and it portrays how British policies and systems contributed to the oppression and exploitation of Indian farmers and laborers. The novel depicts the impact of colonialism on the economic, social, and cultural fabric of Indian society and how it exacerbated existing inequalities and injustices.

In fact, "Mahesh" is a powerful critique of the social, economic, and political structures that perpetuate inequality and oppression in Indian society. Through the portrayal of the lives of marginalized individuals and communities, Sharat Chandra highlights the need for social reform, economic justice, and gender equality. His work continues to resonate with readers today as it sheds light on the deep-seated inequalities and injustices that continue to exist in Indian society.

Overall, "Mahesh" exposes the exploitations and inequities prevalent in society in his times, particularly in the context of the caste system and economic exploitation of the poor. Sharat Chandra's work is an important critique of the social and economic structures that perpetuate inequalities and injustices in India.

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