Social Inequalities in Mulk Raj Anand's 'Untouchable' and the Theme of Conversion

Abstract

The depiction of societal disparities in "Untouchable" by Mulk Raj Anand is, in many respects, analogous to the concept of conversion. Bakha, the protagonist of Anand's novel "Untouchable," is a Dalit, which places him on the lowest rung of India's caste system. Throughout the novel, Anand eloquently illustrates the terrible reality and prejudice that Bakha faces. Anand draws attention to the deeply ingrained social inequalities and injustices that are prevalent in Indian culture by focusing on Bakha's life experiences. In a similar manner, the concept of conversion is often used in literary works to investigate the metamorphosis that may occur in people or groups when they attempt to free themselves from oppressive social circumstances or prejudice. The authors, in both instances, are addressing the need for social change and justice, whether it be through raising awareness of the plight of the marginalised or through the act of conversion as a means of finding a new identity or way of life. In the former case, this is done by raising awareness of the plight of the marginalised; in the latter case, this is done through the act of converting. Both topics provide writers with potent opportunities to shed light on the ubiquitous problem of social inequality as well as the yearning for a more egalitarian society.