One of the main themes is politics. It satirizes the Indian political scene through its fictionalized account. Another theme is mythology. It weaves in elements from Indian epics to make parallels with modern situations. Also, it touches on the idea of identity, exploring how Indians define themselves in the context of a changing nation.
The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor is a remarkable piece of literature. It delves deep into the complex tapestry of Indian culture, politics, and history. Tharoor takes the well - known Mahabharata story and cleverly transposes it onto the modern Indian stage. The characters are modeled after real - life personalities, which makes it both interesting and thought - provoking. It's not just a simple retelling but a creative exploration of how India has evolved, the power struggles within, and the values that have been passed down through generations. It also examines how the country has coped with modernization while still holding onto its age - old traditions.
One of the main themes is politics. It satirizes the Indian political scenario. Another theme is the re - interpretation of the Indian epic Mahabharata in a modern context. It shows how the ancient epic's characters and their relationships can be paralleled to modern - day Indian society, with its complex web of power, ambition, and morality.
Tharoor uses humor by making clever references to Indian mythology in modern contexts. It's like when he takes a heroic figure from an epic and puts them in a comical modern - day equivalent situation. He also uses wordplay. His choice of words and phrases often has a humorous double meaning that adds to the comical effect of the novel.
He uses the character archetypes from the Mahabharata. For example, he maps modern - day politicians and personalities onto the epic's characters. This helps in creating a parallel narrative that is both familiar to those who know the epic and eye - opening for those who see the modern - day implications.
One of his well - known novels is 'The Great Indian Novel'. It is a satirical take on the Indian epic Mahabharata, re - imagining it in the context of modern Indian history and politics.
It critiques the caste system by showing how it divides people and restricts opportunities. Also, it criticizes the political corruption that has seeped into the Indian system.
One aspect to note is the way Sherman Alexie uses humor in 'The Great American Indian Novel'. It's not just simple laughter - inducing humor, but a tool to deal with the complex and often tragic history of Native Americans. Through his unique narrative, he challenges the mainstream view of Native American cultures and experiences.
The 'Great Indian Novel' is significant as it re - interprets Indian history and mythology in a unique way. It blends the epic Mahabharata with modern - day Indian political and social scenarios, providing a satirical and thought - provoking view of the nation.