Deracination, Affinity, and Reconfiguration of Folklore in Anjum Hasan’s Neti Neti and Difficult Pleasures

Abstract

Anjum Hasan’s literary works Neti Neti and Difficult Pleasures explore the relationship between tradition and transformation in Bangalore, India. The narratives depict a generation grappling with the conflict between their cultural heritage and urban life. Hasan’s research highlights the impact of globalization on individuals and communities, emphasizing the distinction between the commonplace and remarkable, as well as personal and societal changes. The characters’ efforts to reconcile their cultural and familial legacy with the rapidly evolving urban landscape are a critical examination of societal transformation. The study examines the reinterpretation of traditional values, rituals, and behaviors in urban India, focusing on evolving notions of identity and the impact of urban environments on individuals’ experiences, considering gender, class, and generational dynamics. The study employs a phenomenological, interpretive approach to analyse selected short stories, incorporating postcolonial, sociological, and cultural studies to contextualise their impact on metropolitan India. Anjum Hasan’s works explore the challenges and reinterpretations of traditional customs and social structures in the face of globalisation, revealing tensions and conflicts as characters navigate local and global boundaries. The urban transformation of spaces in metropolitan India reflects changing social, economic, and cultural landscapes, highlighting gender, class, and generational dynamics. The works highlight the resilience and adaptability of individuals and communities in redefining their sense of identity and belonging amidst globalisation challenges.