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Tamas

Bhisham Sahni

299 Pages
2016

Tamas

Penguin UK

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Tamas - Summary

"Tamas", meaning "Darkness" in Hindi, is a chillingly poignant novel by acclaimed Indian author Bhisham Sahni. Set against the fiery backdrop of the 1947 Partition of India, the story unveils the raw, brutal consequences of religious intolerance and the deep-seated prejudices that ignite communal violence. Through the intertwined destinies of ordinary individuals caught in the crossfire, "Tamas" masterfully depicts the human cost of hatred and division. The novel is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of communal strife, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human side of historical events.

Key Themes

1

The Poison of Prejudice

Sahni paints a stark picture of how easily ingrained prejudices can be manipulated to incite violence. The novel explores the insidious nature of rumors and fear-mongering, showing how they transform neighbors into enemies and peace-loving individuals into perpetrators of horrific acts. The characters' internal struggles with their own biases expose the deep roots of prejudice and the difficulty of escaping its grasp.

2

Loss of Innocence and Humanity

As violence engulfs the land, the narrative captures the disintegration of humanity and the shattering of innocence. Characters who were once ordinary people are forced to confront unimaginable horrors, pushing them to the brink of their moral boundaries.

FAQ's

"Tamas" primarily explores the devastating impact of religious intolerance and communal violence during the 1947 Partition of India. It delves into the deep-seated prejudices that fuel such conflicts and the human cost associated with them.

"Tamas" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human side of historical events, particularly the Partition of India. It offers a thought-provoking narrative that evokes deep emotions and critical reflection on themes of prejudice, violence, and humanity.

"Tamas" stands out for its vivid portrayal of a dark chapter in history, its ability to evoke deep emotions, and its powerful reminder of the consequences of communal strife. Bhisham Sahni's masterful storytelling and the novel's exploration of human resilience and unexpected kindness make it a significant work in Indian literature.

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