UPARA

Book Details:

• Publisher: Mehta Publishing House

• Author: Laxman Mane

• Language: Marathi

• Edition: 34th Edition

• ISBN: 9789394258662

• Pages: 176

• Cover: Paperback

• Publishing Year: December 1980

• Category: Autobiography

About The Book:
Upara is a groundbreaking work in Marathi literature by Laxman Mane, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of the life of an untouchable boy. Written with forceful style and emotional depth, the book provides a vivid account of the author’s personal journey through the caste-based struggles that defined his early life.

In this poignant autobiography, Mane explores the intense, often painful relationships within his family—particularly the love-hate dynamic between him and his father, as well as the complex interactions between his parents and extended relatives. The story delves deeply into Mane’s emotional turmoil, his love for a woman, the suffering both lovers endure, and the social cruelties they face as members of the untouchable caste.

The book doesn’t just focus on the personal; it is a fierce plea for social justice, highlighting the stark realities of caste discrimination and the emotional toll it takes on the oppressed. It offers insights into Mane’s internal conflict, his struggle with humiliation, anger, forbearance, and compassion. The work is a heartfelt reflection of the challenges faced by those born into lower castes and the silent, persistent suffering that often remains unspoken.

Upara is not just an autobiography but a powerful social commentary that brings to the forefront issues of caste discrimination, emotional pain, and the human capacity for both cruelty and love.