Theme of Modernity Kiran Desai’s Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard

Abstract

This paper studies the theme of modernity of the human behavior in the novel Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard. Kiran‘s purpose is to mirror the life of modern man by the tool of satire. The plot of Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard is drawn on contemporary life stories. Desai clearly depicts the fable on hermits and saints which was assumed by the modern society. Her characters are the most significant, colorful and lively. The back drop of the novel is guava orchard, where human and the monkeys compete to survive. This forms whimsical in the plot and character Kiran resembles her mother by handling the artistic sceptre of magical realism to enrich her imagination. This paper is an attempt to explore the themes of changing values and morals, the confused state of society, finding solace in this consumerist culture, and surviving under the modern society. Desai splendidly portrays feelings of insecurity and desperation through the protagonist. This novel is considered to be powerful commentary on 21st century modern India.