Authors: Dr. Mohammad Shah Alam Chowdhury
Abstract: The present study explores the representation of socialism and social realism in the selected works of Aravind Adiga and Rohinton Mistry. Socialism, as a socio-economic ideology, advocates equality, collective welfare, and the reduction of class divisions; however, its practical implementation in India has often revealed contradictions marked by poverty, corruption, exploitation, and social inequality. Contemporary Indian English literature reflects these realities by portraying the struggles of marginalized communities and critiquing the failures of political and economic systems. The study examines how Adiga and Mistry depict the harsh realities of Indian society through themes such as class oppression, poverty, labor exploitation, corruption, identity crisis, and social injustice. Aravind Adiga’s novels, particularly The White Tiger and Last Man in Tower, expose the inequalities of post-liberalization India where capitalist ambitions overshadow socialist ideals. His narratives present a satirical and confrontational critique of economic disparity, moral decay, and institutional corruption. In contrast, Rohinton Mistry’s works, including A Fine Balance and Such a Long Journey, offer a compassionate and humanistic portrayal of ordinary individuals struggling against political oppression, social discrimination, and economic hardships. The research further compares the narrative techniques, ideological perspectives, and social concerns reflected in the writings of both authors. While Adiga emphasizes rebellion, survival, and individual ambition within a corrupt socio-economic structure, Mistry focuses on resilience, human dignity, empathy, and collective suffering. Despite their differing approaches, both writers critically examine the failures of governance and the widening gap between the privileged and marginalized sections of society. The study concludes that the works of Adiga and Mistry serve as powerful critiques of socio-political realities in contemporary India. Their fiction not only reflects the complexities of socialism and capitalism but also highlights the role of literature as a medium for social awareness, resistance, and the representation of marginalized voices.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20305758
