Vinod Das is a well-known poet, critic, and translator, has ventured into prose with his novel ‘Sukhi Ghar Society,’ published this year (2022). Through this nearly three-hundred-page narrative, Das paints a vivid picture of Mumbai, cantered around a society near Meera Road. While the novel revolves around Sukhi Ghar Society, its storyline easily crosses its confines, delving into the lives of migrants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh who have settled in Mumbai, adding layers to the city’s geography.
‘Sukhi Ghar Society’ is a story set in a suburban enclave of the bustling metropolis Mumbai, offering of diverse lives akin to a neighbourhood in a small town. It delves into the daily struggles and aspirations of its residents, reflecting the dichotomies of urban life and the enduring wounds that linger within. The novel encompassing the tales of those uprooted from villages, who migrate in search of livelihood but often find themselves trapped in a cycle of hardship and dreams of returning to their hometowns.
Through vivid descriptions of urban sprawl, water scarcity, local train commutes, and social prejudices, the novel portrays how amidst adversity, humanity preserves its tender emotions, serving as a compelling saga of resilience. It not only offers glimpses of Mumbai‘s history but also serves as a mirror to the contemporary democratic ethos of the nation, seamlessly connecting past and present in its narrative fabric.
Each chapter unfolds as an independent story, yet resonates with the echoes of its predecessors, enriching the reader’s experience with its immersive drawing of life’s myriad hues. The novel portrays the bitter-sweet experiences of these migrants, highlighting their struggles and the harsh realities they face. It sheds light on issues such as communalism, casteism, and gender discrimination, presenting a poignant commentary on contemporary Indian society. Vinod Das’s prose language, reminiscent of poetry, adds depth and impact to the storytelling.
Through the lens of ‘Sukhi Ghar Society,’ Das successfully tries to tell us the lives of its residents, revealing their interconnectedness and shared struggles. Characters like Akash and Vasudha serve as focal points, embodying both progressiveness and human frailties. Novel carefully highlights and portrays the struggles of characters like Krishna, Razia, and Manoj Arya, highlighting the pervasive injustices faced by the marginalized in Indian society. The conflicts within the society mirror the broader societal tensions between Hindus and Muslims, Marathis and non-Marathis, underscoring the pervasive nature of communalism and regionalism.
Furthermore, the novel clearly sheds light on the stark disparities entrenched within Indian society, where the marginalized endure relentless hardships while the privileged remain insulated. From the struggles of sanitation workers like Krishna to the plight of farmers driven to suicide by debt, ‘Sukhi Ghar Society’ exposes the systemic injustices plaguing the nation. Through strong and tight narratives, authors confront the harsh realities faced by those on the fringes of society, urging readers to confront their own biases and privileges.
The novel profoundly serves as a reminder of the delicate points of human experiences that shape our collective existence. Every month, children who earn lakhs of rupees leave their old and helpless parents in old age homes, understanding the responsibility of their duty. They do not even have the time to go and meet their old and helpless parents. This novel narrates many such heartbreaking stories that belong to the residents of ‘Sukhi Ghar Society’ and those who are indirectly or directly connected to this society. Das’s masterful storytelling not only captures the essence of contemporary India but also crosses temporal and spatial boundaries, resonating with readers across cultures and generations. While reading it can be felt that we are compelled to confront uncomfortable truths and contemplate the path towards a more equitable and compassionate society.
Author Vind Das’s prose, characterized by its fluidity and imagery, invites readers to delve deep into the multi-layered human experience. While the novel may not provide definitive answers, it sparks conversations and prompts introspection, leaving readers pondering over the complexities of life long after they’ve turned the final page.
However, despite the richness of the narrative, the novel concludes at a point where many stories remain untold, leaving readers with a sense of unfinished business, much like life itself. In ‘Sukhi Ghar Society‘, seasoned author Vinod Das’s insightful storytelling crosses the boundaries of traditional prose, offering a dynamic portrayal of contemporary reality. While the novel may not tie all its threads neatly together, it leaves a lasting impression on readers, prompting reflection on the challenges of modern society.
Book: Sukhi Ghar Society by Vinod Das
Language: Hindi
Published by: Rajkamal Prakashan Samuh
Price: Rs 350
