Dalits Identity and Subaltern Voices in Samskara by U R. Ananthamurthy

Abstract

The article explores the concept of Dalit identity and subaltern voices in India, especially in U. R. Ananthamurthy’s novel “Samskara,” it focused on the hegemonic hierarchy caste system. The central concept is the cremation of Naranappa's body, with Praneshacharya as the protagonist representing a spiritual and traditional person. The novel Samskara also explores the conflict between Hinduism and modern religions in India, highlighting the need for a better understanding of Dharma and cultural aspects. Samskara, a 1960s religious novel, is a powerful film exploring a decaying Brahmin colony in Karnataka, reworking ancient Hindu themes and providing a glossary of Hindu myths and customs. Naranappa represents a modern person, while Chandri and Belli represent Dalits. The novel explores elements of casteism, patriarchy, superstitious beliefs, and greedy personalities. Chandri not only sacrifice her jewelry, but sacrifices her body to Praneshacharya for cremation of Naranappa’s dead body. Belli also a low caste, they treated as sexual object. ‘Sripati doesn’t like to speak with Belli but he wants sleeps with her’. Who thinks that he would be polluted, if he speaks with her? He, however, does not think that touching of body, is not polluted?