O, I do read Indian novels sometimes. But you know, Ms Rupinder, what we Indians want in literature, at least the kind written in English, is not literature at all, but flattery. We want to see ourselves depicted as soulful, sensitive, profound, valorous, wounded, tolerant and funny beings. All that Jhumpa Lahiri stuff. But the truth is, we are absolutely nothing of that kind. What are we, then, Ms Rupinder? We are animals of the jungle, who will eat our neighbour's children in five minutes, and our own in ten. Keep this in mind before you do any business in this country.
In "Selection Day" by Aravind Adiga, a character reflects on the expectations of Indian literature, particularly works written in English. They express that many readers desire to see a flattering representation of themselves, characterized as noble and admirable. This desire reflects a deeper craving for validation rather than a pursuit of genuine literary truth. The character sarcastically critiques the idealized portrayal of Indian identity often found in novels by authors like Jhumpa Lahiri.
However, the character starkly contrasts this ideal with a harsh reality, suggesting that Indians are more primal and self-serving than the sentimental images often presented in literature. They emphasize a darker, more animalistic nature, highlighting the capacity for cruelty and betrayal, even within community ties. This provocative insight serves as a warning to those engaging with Indian culture or business, suggesting that one should be aware of the complexities and darker aspects of human behavior beneath the surface of societal narratives.
