Volume III Special Issue V May 2023

Name of Author : Dr. Neetu Sangwan

Title of the paper : Existential Quest for Identity in Aravind Adigas The White Tiger

Abstract: As a writer, Aravind Adiga has always considered it his duty to thrust upon the themes of existence and struggle of common people especially of the downtrodden and underprivileged class struggling with affluent and powerful people. His sensitivity towards such burning issues has been evident since the inception of his journey as a novelist. His Man Booker Prize winning novel The White Tiger that brought laurels to India is an indisputable exemplar in this regard and his acumen has been aptly shown beyond doubt in his succeeding novels as well. The story is based on the existential journey of the protagonist and narrator Balram who is a victim of class struggle prevailing in India. Balram describes his trip from Delhi to Bangalore, where he works as a driver for a rich man settled in the city and then leaves after killing and stealing his masters money, explores religion, gender, devotion, bribery, and poverty in India. Balram eventually rises above his sweet-maker caste and establishes his own cab company. He is called the White Tiger because his thinking is significantly different from the people he grew up with. He is recognized as a symbol of liberty and individualism.

Keywords : Existence, Struggle, Downtrodden, Liberty, Individualism

DOI :

Page Number : 17-20