This blog is part of our thinking activity. This task is given by Megha Trivedi. In this blog we have discussed about African Literature novel Petals of Blood by Ngugi wa Thiong'o.
About the novelist -
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o (Gikuyu pronunciation: born James Ngugi; 5 January 1938)[2] is a Kenyan author and academic, who has been described as "East Africa's leading novelist". He began writing in English, switching to write primarily in Gikuyu. His work includes novels, plays, short stories, and essays, ranging from literary and social criticism to children's literature. He is the founder and editor of the Gikuyu-language journal Mũtĩiri. His short story The Upright Revolution: Or Why Humans Walk Upright has been translated into 100[4] languages. (Wikipedia)
About the Novel -
"Petals of Blood," authored by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o and initially published in 1977, unfolds its narrative in post-independence Kenya, closely examining the lives of four interconnected characters: Munira, Abdulla, Wanja, and Karega. The Mau Mau rebellion serves as a historical backdrop, weaving the characters together as they seek refuge from urban life in the tranquil village of Ilmorog. Throughout the novel's progression, the protagonists grapple not only with the aftermath of the Mau Mau rebellion but also with the swift Westernization sweeping through Kenya.
👉 For more information about history of african literature, Ngugi Wa Thiong'o and novel you can see this video :-
At its core, the novel delves into the skepticism surrounding change following Kenya's liberation from colonial rule, prompting critical reflections on the extent to which the newly independent nation may inadvertently perpetuate the oppressive systems inherited from its colonial past. The narrative confronts multifaceted themes, including the challenges posed by capitalism, the complexities of politics, and the profound effects of Westernization on the social fabric. Additionally, the novel underscores the role of education, schools, and the Mau Mau rebellion as unifying elements, connecting the characters through a shared history. In essence, "Petals of Blood" emerges as a poignant exploration of Kenya's post-independence identity and the intricate interplay of historical legacies in shaping the nation's trajectory.
How Neo colonialism is presented in Petals of Blood ?
The narrative of the novel Petals of Blood opens with the grim news of the murders of Mzigo, Chui, and Kimeria, casting suspicion on Wanja, Munira, Karega, and Abdulla. Ilmorog, once a traditional Kenyan village, has undergone a transformation into a modern industrial town. However, Ngugi challenges this urbanization, considering it a manifestation of neo-colonization. According to Josephine Sitwala, the modernization of Ilmorog has resulted in social abuse, oppression, exploitation, and injustice, erasing its original beauty and causing suffering among its inhabitants.
The failure of the ruling elite to address the masses ownership needs becomes apparent, creating a disconnect between the elite and the people. The persistent ties with departed colonizers widen the gap between the middle class and the bourgeoisie, reflecting the ongoing influence of colonial powers.
Nyakinyua's impassioned speech serves as a poignant moment, highlighting the loss of control over Ilmorog's destiny. Her call for a trip to Nairobi reflects a collective desire for change and autonomy, evoking memories of a time when the community had agency over its own affairs. The speech emphasizes the adverse impact of external forces, symbolized by the loss of the forest and the exploitation of the youth.
Ngugi, in Writers in Politics (1981) stresses the theme of independence, asserting that true freedom is unattainable as long as the economy and culture are dominated by foreigners. Ilmorog's attempts to establish its own government and control over the economy face challenges with the construction of the Trans-Africa road. This development agenda results in land appropriation, the construction of shopping centers and tourist facilities, and the use of machines to promote the economy, raising questions about the true beneficiaries of this modernization.
The novel weaves together the oppression of women and the exploitation of Africans by colonial powers, suggesting a shared ideological basis. Wanja's past is used by Ngugi to harshly critique imperialist control over Africa, drawing parallels between the exploitation of her mature body and the coveted African land by imperialists.
Politician Nderi wa Riera's focus on Ilmorog's votes at the expense of neglecting the social and economic needs of remote areas underscores the political dynamics at play. Wanja and Abdulla's loss of Baar and money adds a layer of personal struggle within the broader context of neo-colonial challenges faced by Ilmorog.
In essence, Petals of Blood explores the multifaceted impact of neo-colonialism on Ilmorog, intertwining personal stories with broader socio-political themes, and prompting reflection on the complexities of post-colonial African society.
2). Write a detailed note on “Re-historicizing the conflicted figure of Woman in Petals of Blood.
Here one article discuss about “Re-historicizing the conflicted figure of Woman in Petals of Blood. for reading further open this link -
The article examines the complex portrayal of the female character Wanja in Ngugi wa Thiong'o's novel Petals of Blood. While many feminist critics have praised Wanja as a strong, independent woman with agency, the author Bonnie Roos argues that this reading overlooks the use of Wanja as an archetypal trope symbolizing Kenya and Africa itself.
Roos pushes back against the critique by Florence Stratton that Ngugi fails to move beyond cliched Western representations of women as virgins, mothers or prostitutes. Roos contends that by grounding Wanja's characterization in the historical realities and traditions of Kenyan women, Ngugi complicates and enriches her beyond simplistic tropes.
"Ngugi's careful portrayal of Wanja discovers a character infinitely more complex than one who is traditionally 'feminized,' weak and downtrodden," Roos writes. "She is always depicted as acting or reacting from the numerous strengths she possesses, rather than giving in to weakness or desperation."
Roos highlights how Wanja's close connection to the land and her role as a nurturing, fertile "Earth mother" reflect her grounding in the agricultural philosophies of Marxist thinkers like Frantz Fanon that influenced Ngugi. Her sexuality is also tied to Gikuyu tradition, which associated women with land transfer rituals requiring "purity."
Wanja's infanticide is contrasted with the historical phenomenon among poor urban Kenyan women forced into such acts by poverty and lack of resources. "Ngugi is cognizant of the thin line he walks between Wanja as fully taken in by the capitalist advantages offered by prostitution and her truth to herself and her own ideals," Roos argues.
While critics like Stratton see Wanja's prostitution as simply exploiting the female body for male/colonial interests, Roos points out that in Kenya's colonial history, prostitution paradoxically allowed some women increased economic independence over male laborers. Furthermore, many prostitutes were part of the Mau Mau rebellion that Ngugi glorifies.
Roos writes: "For all that Ngugi posits hope for Wanja derived from her child, Wanja is herself, regardless of her role as a mother, a signal of hope, as she channels her passions into more suitable venues for resistance."
In depicting Wanja's ultimate embrace of prostitution at the Sunshine Lodge as a pragmatic solution tragically born of circumstance, Ngugi avoids simplistic judgments. As Wanja muses: "She was somehow sure of her power over men: she knew how they could be very weak before her body. Sometimes she was afraid of this power and she often had wanted to run away from barking kingdoms. But she was not really fit for much else and besides, she thought with a shuddering pain of recognition, she had come to enjoy the elation at seeing a man turn into a captive and a sighing fool before her tricks."
Roos concludes that by leaving Wanja a contradictory figure who "defies all critical attempts to entrap her within a facile Western classification," Ngugi depicts the unresolved tensions between Western and African identities. Wanja emblematizes how violence and oppression have been "written" on the Kenyan people, especially its women who remained integral to defining the nation's future.
Conclusion :-
Ngugi wa Thiong'o's novel "Petals of Blood" offers a poignant and multifaceted exploration of the complexities that emerged in post-colonial Kenya. Through the intertwined narratives of its central characters, the novel delves into the disillusionment that accompanied the nation's transition from colonial rule to independence, prompting critical reflections on the extent to which the new regime perpetuated the oppressive systems inherited from its colonial past.
At the heart of the novel lies the character of Wanja, whose portrayal has sparked considerable debate among literary critics. While some have celebrated her as a symbol of strength and agency, others have criticized her depiction as reinforcing clichéd Western representations of women. However, a closer examination of Wanja's characterization reveals a richly layered and nuanced figure that defies simplistic categorization.
Ngugi's depiction of Wanja is deeply rooted in the historical realities and cultural traditions of Kenyan women. Her connection to the land and her role as a nurturing, fertile "Earth mother" resonate with the agricultural philosophies that influenced the author's Marxist leanings. Moreover, her sexuality is intrinsically tied to the Gikuyu tradition, which associated women with land transfer rituals and notions of purity.
Wanja's complex journey, which ultimately leads her to embrace prostitution as a pragmatic solution born of circumstance, challenges simplistic judgments and invites a nuanced understanding of the forces that shape her choices. Ngugi avoids reducing her to a mere symbol of exploitation or a passive victim, instead portraying her as a contradictory figure who defies easy categorization.
Through Wanja's experiences, Ngugi illuminates the paradoxical nature of prostitution in colonial Kenya, where it simultaneously represented a form of economic independence for some women and a means of resistance against the oppressive colonial regime. This nuanced portrayal challenges Western perspectives that often reduce prostitution to a one-dimensional exploitation of the female body for male or colonial interests.
Furthermore, Wanja's character serves as a metaphor for the conflicted identity of post-colonial Kenya itself. Her unresolved tensions and contradictions mirror the nation's struggle to reconcile its African roots with the lingering influences of Western colonization. Ngugi's refusal to present a neatly resolved narrative reflects the complex realities of a nation grappling with the violence and oppression that have been "written" on its people, particularly its women, who remain integral to defining the nation's future.
In the end, "Petals of Blood" emerges as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of colonialism and the challenges that post-colonial societies face in reclaiming their autonomy and cultural identity. Through the multifaceted portrayal of Wanja and the other central characters, Ngugi invites readers to confront the complexities of this transitional period, encouraging a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between historical legacies and the ongoing process of nation-building.
Katherine Mansfield Murry, born on 14th October 1888 in New Zealand, was a well-known modernist short story writer who used the pen name Katherine Mansfield. Growing up in colonial New Zealand, she became a masterful artist in capturing common human behaviors and emotions. One of her notable works is the short story "A Cup of Tea," published in 1922, where she skillfully explores the theme of jealousy in a woman.
In this story, Mansfield unveils the sophisticated facade of society and delves into the concept of social work and the artificial emotions of a wealthy woman. The protagonist, Rosemary Fell, is a rich woman with a highly artificial demeanor. She thrives on admiration and seeks to feel important. One winter night, she encounters a poor girl and, in an attempt to appear generous, offers her a cup of tea.
Rosemary believes she is doing a good deed, displaying generosity. However, her actions are laced with artificiality. Despite her husband Mr. Phillip Fell being upset with her decision to bring the poor girl, Ms. Smith, into their home, Rosemary remains oblivious to his concerns. Mr. Fell, aware of his wife's nature, employs a clever trick. He praises Ms. Smith's beauty, dealing a blow to Rosemary's pride and triggering a sense of jealousy.
The story ends intriguingly, urging readers to explore the original text for its conclusion.
In essence, "A Cup of Tea" is a simple yet profoundly meaningful story. It serves as a satirical commentary on the artificial feelings of the wealthy towards the poor. Mansfield highlights how social work can sometimes be a mere means for the affluent to appear generous and superior to others.
CHARACTER
In the story "A Cup of Tea" by Katherine Mansfield, Rosemary Fell is a complex character. She may seem happy and kind on the outside, but deep down, she struggles with envy and pain. The story begins by stating that Rosemary is not exactly beautiful, but she is young, brilliant, modern, well-dressed, and well-read.
Rosemary is portrayed as a comfortably rich woman who enjoys the luxuries of life. While regular people go to places like Bond Street for shopping, Rosemary goes to London for her everyday shopping. Her parties reflect her wealth, and like many wealthy women, she is interested in acts of kindness and charity.
One day, as Rosemary comes out of an antique shop, she encounters a girl begging for money who wishes to have a cup of tea. Rosemary sees an opportunity to help and invites the girl home, treating her like a sister regardless of their different social classes. She warmly says, "Come home to tea with me," and serves her well.
However, everything changes when Mr. Philip describes the girl, Miss Smith, as astonishingly pretty. This statement makes Rosemary feel insecure and causes her to shift from a charitable mindset to one of jealousy. She worries that having Miss Smith at home might jeopardize her marriage. Rosemary starts questioning her own beauty and decides not to let Miss Smith stay. In the end, she gives money to Miss Smith and asks her to leave. Rosemary then turns to Philip and asks, "Am I pretty?"
When Rosemary meets Miss Smith, it is noteworthy that asking for money seems extraordinary to Rosemary. This indicates that Rosemary is different from other wealthy people, as she can't fathom someone having no money.
During tea in Rosemary's bedroom, she leaves Miss Smith's hat and coat on the floor, suggesting a class difference in Rosemary's eyes. Rosemary's attitude towards Miss Smith changes after Philip compliments Miss Smith's beauty, making Rosemary not only jealous but also insecure about her own appearance.
In Rosemary's character, we observe elements of jealousy, insecurity, materialism, and class differences. She stands out not just among other women but also among the wealthy. Mansfield paints a portrait of a woman struggling with her inner conflicts despite her outwardly comfortable life.
Arthur Miller, born on October 17, 1915, in New York City, was an Americans
playwright and one of the leading figures in American theater during the 20th century. He gained widespread acclaim for his plays, many of which explored social issues and the complexities of the human experience. Miller's works often reflected his concerns about morality, responsibility, and the consequences of individual actions in society. One of his notable plays is "All My Sons," which premiered in 1947 and is considered a classic of American theater.
All My Sons :-
"All My Sons" is a family drama that revolves around the Keller family, particularly Joe Keller, the patriarch, and his son Chris. The play also features other pivotal characters, including Joe's wife Kate, their neighbor Ann Deever, and George Deever, Ann's brother.
Characters :-
1- Joe Keller: Joe is a successful businessman who owns a factory that produced airplane parts during World War II. The character is a complex figure who grapples with guilt and moral responsibility. His decisions during the war have far-reaching consequences for his family and the Deever family. Joe is portrayed as a father figure who, despite his flaws, cares deeply for his son Chris and is protective of his family's reputation.
2 - Chris Keller: Chris, Joe's son, is a war veteran who idealistically believes in the possibility of creating a better world after the war. He is in love with Ann Deever and struggles with the legacy of his father's actions during the war. Chris becomes a central character in the play as he confronts the truths about his family's past and grapples with his own moral compass.
3 - Kate Keller: Kate is Joe's wife and Chris's mother. She is haunted by the disappearance of her other son, Larry, who went missing in action during the war. Kate clings to the belief that Larry is still alive, creating tension within the family. Her character represents the emotional toll of loss and the desperate desire to preserve a sense of normalcy.
4 - Ann Deever: Ann is Larry's former girlfriend and is now romantically involved with Chris. Her character serves as a catalyst for the revelation of long-buried secrets. Ann struggles with her own conflicted feelings about the Keller family's role in her brother's fate.
5 - George Deever George, Ann's brother, is a key character who arrives with important information about the past. He is determined to uncover the truth about his father's imprisonment and the events surrounding Larry's death. George's presence intensifies the family's internal conflicts and propels the narrative towards its dramatic climax.
Themes in "All My Sons":-
"All My Sons" explores several profound themes that resonate with the human experience and societal values.
- The American Dream: The play scrutinizes the American Dream and the pursuit of success at the cost of moral compromise. Joe Keller's actions during the war, driven by the desire for financial prosperity, challenge the notion of achieving success at any expense. The consequences of sacrificing ethical principles for personal gain are laid bare in the narrative.
- Moral Responsibility: A central theme in "All My Sons" is the exploration of moral responsibility and the consequences of one's actions on others. Joe Keller's decisions during the war have far-reaching repercussions, forcing the characters to confront the ethical implications of their choices. The play raises questions about accountability, guilt, and the impact of individual decisions on the broader community.
- Family Dynamics: The Keller family serves as the microcosm through which Miller explores the complexities of familial relationships. The play delves into themes of loyalty, love, and the challenges of maintaining a facade of normalcy in the face of buried secrets and unresolved conflicts.
- The Past and Its Shadows:The past casts a long shadow over the characters in "All My Sons." The unresolved issues from the war, including Larry's mysterious disappearance, linger beneath the surface, affecting the characters' present lives. The play emphasizes how the past can shape and haunt individuals and families, influencing their choices and destinies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arthur Miller's "All My Sons" is a poignant exploration of moral dilemmas, familial bonds, and the consequences of pursuing the American Dream at the expense of ethical principles. The characters grapple with their individual responsibilities, and the play serves as a thought-provoking examination of the complexities inherent in human relationships and societal values.
Hello everyone ! This blog is part of academic activity. Let's start with introduction about author.
William Shakespeare, often referred to as the Bard of Avon, is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights and poets in the English language. Born in April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Shakespeare's works continue to captivate audiences around the world. One of his timeless tragedies is "Othello," a play that delves into the complexities of human nature, jealousy, and the destructive power of suspicion.
Introduction to William Shakespeare:
Shakespeare's life is shrouded in mystery, but he is believed to have been born on April 23, 1564. His father, John Shakespeare, was a successful glove-maker, and his mother, Mary Arden, came from a prominent local family. Little is known about Shakespeare's early education, but by the age of 18, he had married Anne Hathaway and had three children. In the late 16th century, he began his career as an actor and playwright in London.
Shakespeare's prolific output includes 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. His works are characterized by their exploration of the human experience, rich language, and universal themes that resonate across cultures and time periods.
Othello - Characters:
"Othello" is a tragedy that revolves around the characters Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army; his wife, Desdemona; and the ensign Iago. Othello is a noble and valiant soldier who falls victim to the machinations of Iago, his ensign and trusted friend. Desdemona, Othello's wife, is a woman of virtue and innocence. Iago, on the other hand, is a cunning and manipulative villain who orchestrates a web of deceit to destroy Othello and those around him.
Othello, a man of noble stature, is characterized by his military prowess and deep love for Desdemona. However, he is vulnerable to the poison of jealousy, which ultimately leads to his tragic downfall. Desdemona, Othello's wife, is portrayed as a woman of grace and integrity. Her love for Othello is pure, and she becomes a victim of Iago's malevolent schemes.
Iago, the antagonist, is one of Shakespeare's most complex villains. He is driven by jealousy and a desire for revenge against Othello, whom he believes has wronged him. Iago manipulates those around him, exploiting their weaknesses and insecurities to achieve his sinister goals. His cunning and deceitful nature make him a compelling yet detestable character.
Themes in Othello:
"Othello" explores several profound themes that continue to resonate with audiences today. One of the central themes is the destructive power of jealousy. Othello's tragic downfall is fueled by Iago's manipulation and the insidious nature of jealousy, which blinds him to reason and reality. The play serves as a cautionary tale about the corrosive effects of unchecked envy on both individuals and relationships.
Race and identityare also significant themes in "Othello." Othello, as a Moor in a predominantly white society, faces prejudice and discrimination. His marriage to Desdemona, a white woman, adds an additional layer of complexity to the racial dynamics within the play. Shakespeare explores the impact of societal expectations and prejudices on individuals' sense of self and belonging.
Betrayal and deception are pervasive themes in "Othello." Iago's betrayal of Othello and his manipulation of other characters create a web of lies that leads to tragic consequences. The play underscores the fragility of trust and the devastating consequences of deceit within personal and professional relationships.
Love and innocence, embodied by the relationship between Othello and Desdemona, stand in stark contrast to the darker themes of the play. The purity of their love serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive forces that can undermine even the strongest bonds.
Conclusion:-
In conclusion, William Shakespeare's "Othello" is a timeless masterpiece that delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of jealousy, race, betrayal, and love. The characters, Othello, Desdemona, and Iago, are intricately woven into a narrative that continues to captivate and resonate with audiences, making "Othello" a compelling and enduring work in the realm of literary classics.
"12th Fail" is a captivating and heartwarming true story about a student named Manoj Kumar Sharma. He comes from a Hindi medium school in a faraway village in Madhya Pradesh and faces the challenge of failing his Class XII exams. Despite this setback, he doesn't give up. Instead, he perseveres through difficulties and failed attempts to eventually succeed in the UPSC examination, becoming an IPS officer.
Vikrant Massey, who plays Manoj, gives a fantastic performance that connects directly with the audience. The film beautifully shows Manoj's journey from the tough Chambal region to the UPSC building in the national capital, filling viewers with strong emotions of hope and belief. It raises questions about how someone in tough circumstances can remain hopeful for a better future. Moreover, it explores how a sixteen-year-old overcomes challenging situations to reach great heights and improve his family's social status forever. These questions form the essence of the film.
The supporting cast, including Medha Shankar as Manoj's supportive girlfriend, Anantvijay Joshi as his friend, and Anshumaan Pushkar as a peer, adds authenticity and genuineness to their characters. Their performances enhance the screenplay, making the storytelling much more enriching. "12th Fail" is not just about academic struggles; it's a story of determination, ambition, and the power of hope in the face of difficulties.
The film was meticulously crafted in authentic settings, including the UPSC Replica in New Delhi ( UPSC Head Court Gate ), the genuine village of Reha , and the bustling locales of Mukherjee Nagar and Rajendra Nagar in Delhi. The filmmakers dedicated themselves to capturing the essence of UPSC., going so far as to feature real students from the institution. Their commitment to authenticity is palpable, as they spared no effort in ensuring that every frame of the movie exudes genuine realism.
Hidden Caste Privilege in the movie:-
Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phule – ‘Takat vicharo me honi chahiye’
Whatever is shown in the 12th Fail Movie may happen in the life of a Caste Which is regarded as superior in the Society but not in the life of a Dalit against whom the worst kind of caste atrocities took place; not any person will come randomly in the life of a Dalit and help them.The movie failed to acknowledge the advantages that privileged Caste people get. Being born into a Caste that is regarded as superior in Society is itself a privilege Because they don’t have to face Untouchability or discrimination, they don’t have to hide their Parent’s Name from others, they don’t have to live in fear in Childhood that if others will know their Caste they will beat you, they will not talk to you, they will not sit with you, Teachers don’t make fun of them and Question their credibility in School, Teachers don’t laugh and make fun of them in whole class because of their Caste, They don’t have to face this all. All this is being faced by Dalits. When a Dalit is born in a home, he knows that he has been born in a Dalit’s house, and from that moment, the struggle of a Dalit starts. The struggles of a Dalit have never been acknowledged by mainstream Bollywood Movie and Castes which are regarded as superior in the Society. The struggles and sufferings of Dalits have been normalized in society, when atrocities happens with a Dalit people say what is new in it, this shows how pain and sufferings of Dalits have been normalized.
This Movie looks like the glorification of a person who comes from a Caste that is regarded as superior in society to show how hardworking he was. There are many Dalits who want to have a better career. Still, no one comes into their life and support like Manoj Sharma in the movie was getting because of lack of money, lack of resources, lack of social capital, and obviously because of his Caste. Many Dalits have to leave their studies and have been compelled to drop out of school because of a lack of resources because of Caste humiliation, Which a person who was born in a Caste that is regarded as superior will never know. In this movie, it has also been shown that, while searching for coaching, Manoj found Shraddha Joshi; he slowly started to love her and proposed to Shraddha. Shraddha also accepted his proposal, and Shraddha told him that even if you do not become an IAS, she would love him; Shraddha was her support during his entire journey. Does this thing happen if a character is a Dalit? Probably not, because Caste would have become the barrier.
Both Manoj and Shraddha came from a family that is regarded as superior in society, so it became easier for both of them to marry in a Society where everything is decided by Caste. If Manoj had been a Dalit, his Love would not have been accepted, and it would not have turned into marriage; one needs only to Google, and one will find what price a Dalit pays for loving a person to those whose Caste is regarded as a superior in the society when you google, you will find many cases where a Dalit gets killed, or the girl who was loving to a Dalit gets killed only merely for loving. The love of a Dalit and the affection of a Dalit have not been accepted in society. They have been prohibited from loving or being loved. Dalits have felt the burden of Caste as no one else has. Love makes each other evolve into good human beings. Touch, the touch of Love, the touch of affection, and the touch of acceptance, Dalits have been deprived of all of this because their touch becomes Untouchables to others. Read more (https://velivada.com/2024/01/25/12th-fail-movie-and-hidden-caste-privilege-an-critical-analysis/)
Theoretical Framework:
1. Frame :
In this frame, the camera highlights Manoj as its main focus, rendering the background figures in a blur. Manoj, hailing from a village, appears visibly apprehensive in the bustling city of Delhi. His unease is evident on his face, reflecting the challenges he faces. Despite his educational background, passing this exam proves to be a more daunting task than anticipated.
In the opening scene of the movie, Manoj is depicted engaging in the act of creating cheats for exams. The cinematography employs a high camera angle to capture this pivotal moment. This distinctive choice of perspective not only adds a visual flair to the scene but also sets the tone for the narrative. Interestingly, a similar high camera angle is employed in the final scene, creating a deliberate parallel between the two frames. Through this juxtaposition, the audience can discern the evolution or transformation that has taken place, emphasizing the contrast between the initial act of academic dishonesty.
1. Upon reaching Gwalior, Manoj is struck with a profound sense of grief as all his belongings are stolen. The distant echoes of firecrackers serve as an ominous reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for him.
2. Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra shared a funny anecdote about his release '12th Fail' and said that he lent his voice to a dog’s character in the film. Taking to Instagram, he posted a reel in which he said: “I write, produce, direct. But did you know that I’ve also been a dog in the film?” Vidhu said: “There is this scene where he (Vikrant Massey) is running in the night. Now I wanted this very specific sound of a woof-woof, we couldn’t really find it so I gave the barking sound. So remember this, when you watch the movie and this scene in particular, I was actually the dog here.”
Here delve into the narrative not just of one Manoj but of several, each embodying the courage to transcend the confines of the small village and make their mark on the world. In the film education system paints a vivid picture of education as a business, notably portrayed when Manoj ventures into the world of tuition coaching to prepare for his final interview.
The storyline unfurls the myriad challenges that greet Manoj upon his arrival in Delhi, underscoring the formidable obstacles faced by a middle-class youth in pursuit of a government job. Yet, amidst the labyrinth of trials, Manoj emerges as a resilient figure, illustrating that with steadfast determination and supportive allies, even the most formidable challenges can be conquered. The narrative becomes a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the belief that unwavering determination can pave the way to success.
In a telling sequence, when the father’s spirit melts in front of the insurmountable odds, he says, “We can’t win this battle, son”. Manoj replies, “But we can’t accept defeat either.” Similarly, finding themselves in an endless struggle, the scene where Manoj and his mother (Geeta Aggarwal Sharma) cry together tears you up.
DSP Dushyant Singh, played by Priyanshu Chatterjee in a modest yet
impactful role, intervenes at the school, disrupting cheating attempts and questioning the
established norms. His magnetic words “Cheating chodhni padhegi”, not only shape the entire
plot but also serve as the pivotal moment that transforms Manoj's life. Medha Shankar has
gracefully played her role as Shraddha Joshi. Throughout she remained the motivational force
for Manoj. In all his failures, her love proves him a comforting refuge affirming enduring
support. When Pandey doubts Shraddha's commitment towards Manoj, her simple yet profound
words"I love you"heal his wounded pride and provide strength to turn setbacks into stepping
stones for a shared future. Anant V Joshi, who played Pritam Pandey, supplied the storyline
and ensured the natural flow of scenes with his third-person narrative. Every other character
has played an incredible role in enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
THEMATIC STUDY:-
1. Educational Transformation
The film depicts the transformative power of education through the protagonist Manoj's journey. Despite facing daunting obstacles, his resilience and determination showcase how education can be a catalyst for personal growth and overcoming challenges.
2. Institutional Integrity Compromised
The narrative exposes the erosion of integrity within educational institutions, exemplified by instances of corruption like the principal endorsing cheating during board exams. This sheds light on the compromised ethical standards plaguing the system.
3. Mentorship and Social Capital
The film underscores the pivotal role of mentors and social connections in shaping an individual's educational and moral development. Characters like Gauri Bhaiya and the reformed police officer serve as guiding lights, highlighting the importance of positive influences.
4. Merit vs. Privilege Debate
Through Manoj's struggles, the film prompts a reevaluation of the balance between merit and privilege in accessing educational and career opportunities. It challenges preconceived notions and exposes systemic issues that can undermine individual merit.
5. Pitfalls of Exam-Centric Education
Drawing from Barad's insights, the film critiques the negative outcomes of an education system excessively focused on government job exams. It explores consequences like a 'herd mentality,' neglect of genuine learning, sidelining of diverse talents, and fostering cutthroat competition.
6. Call for Educational Reform
"Beyond the Grade" echoes a resounding call for comprehensive educational reforms, aligning with Barad's advocacy. Both the film and the article underscore the need for a paradigm shift that prioritizes the intrinsic value of diverse talents and knowledge over a narrow focus on government job exams.
The film's exploration beyond the traditional emphasis on government job exams unveils the adverse consequences of such a system, compelling a critical examination. It highlights the urgency for educational reforms that acknowledge the inherent worth of diverse talents and knowledge, transcending the confines of standardized examinations.
Comparative Analysis:
The film "3 Idiots," directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, imparts a profound message encouraging individuals to prioritize excellence over the relentless pursuit of success. The narrative reflects the stark reality in India, where approximately 70% of students grapple with the intense pressure of exams, leading to alarming rates of suicide attempts. The movie underscores the importance of facing obstacles on the path to success, emphasizing that only 75% ultimately succeed in their endeavors. The recurring mantra "ALL IS WELL" serves as a source of strength during challenging moments, echoing the resilience needed to overcome difficulties.
Similarly, the film "12th Fail" introduces the concept of "RESTART," symbolizing the power to begin anew when confronted with setbacks. Both movies advocate slogans as sources of empowerment, reinforcing the idea that with determination and resilience, individuals can navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
Super 30 :-
A Bollywood movie that revolves around the theme of education and competitive government exams is "Super 30." Released in 2019, it is directed by Vikas Bahl and features Hrithik Roshan in the lead role. The film is inspired by the life of mathematician Anand Kumar, who founded the Super 30 program in Patna, Bihar, to coach economically disadvantaged students for the IIT-JEE, one of the toughest entrance exams for engineering in India. The movie explores the challenges faced by students in the pursuit of education and success in competitive exams.
अब राजा का बेटा राजा नहीं बनेगा अब राजा वही बनेगा जो हक़दार होगा |
Conclusion :-
The movie "12th Fail" is an eye-opening look at the problems in India's education system and the unfair treatment people face based on their social status. It tells the inspiring story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, a determined student who doesn't give up despite many challenges. What makes this film unique is how differently it portrays Manoj's journey compared to the original book. The contrast of Manoj's lower caste background with the image of a gun highlights the power differences and privileges some groups have over others in society.
Instead of making you feel sorry for Manoj, the film shows his struggles in an honest way through unexpected storytelling choices. By exposing the corruption in education, "12th Fail" becomes a thought-provoking movie that goes against typical Bollywood films. The realistic characters and bold criticism of societal issues make this movie stand out in Indian cinema. Its deep themes, authentic portrayal, and unconventional narrative leave a strong impact while sparking important conversations about flaws in the education system, privilege, and the power of education to transform lives.
By moving away from mainstream stories and shining a light on real-life battles within a flawed system, "12th Fail" becomes a relevant and impactful film that adds to the discourse around corruption, inequality, and the pursuit of education in modern Indian society.
