VIEWING KIRAN DESAI'S HULLABALOO IN THE GUAVA ORCHARD THROUGH THE LENS OF ECOCRITICISM
Ms. Alka Nayak, Dr. Shilpi Bhattacgharya
Abstract
This research paper explores the literary work of Kiran Desai, specifically her novel "Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard," through the critical framework of Ecocriticism. The novel presents a rich tapestry of characters and narratives set in the fictional Indian town of Shahkot, offering a unique perspective on the intricate relationship between human beings and the natural world. By employing ecocritical analysis, this study examines how Desai's narrative explores environmental themes, portraying the complex interplay between Nature, culture, and society. The research begins by providing an overview of Ecocriticism as a theoretical framework, highlighting its relevance in understanding literature's engagement with environmental issues. It then delves into a comprehensive analysis of "Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard," focusing on vital ecological themes such as the contrast between urban and rural spaces, the symbolism of the guava orchard, and the representation of human-nature interactions. By closely examining the novel's characters, settings, and narrative elements, this paper elucidates how Desai's work underscores the significance of ecological consciousness and sustainability in contemporary society.
Furthermore, the research explores the broader implications of Desai's ecological perspective in the context of postcolonial literature. It investigates how the novel challenges dominant Western narratives and offers an alternative viewpoint emphasizing the importance of local ecosystems and indigenous knowledge systems. Through Ecocriticism, this study illuminates how "Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard" contributes to the ongoing discourse on environmentalism, cultural identity, and global interconnectedness. In conclusion, this research paper demonstrates that Kiran Desai's "Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard" is a compelling work of literature that engages with pressing environmental concerns while providing insights into postcolonial identity's complexities. Viewing the novel through Ecocriticism reveals the depth and richness of Desai's ecological imagination, highlighting the novel's contribution to the broader conversation on the intersections of literature, culture, and the environment.
Keywords
Kiran Desai, Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard, Ecocriticism, Environmental themes, Human-nature interactions, Postcolonial literature