Waiting For The Mahatma

Book Details

• Author: R. K. Narayan

• Publisher: Indian Thought Publications

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9788185986067

• Pages: 256

• Cover: Paperback

• Edition: Edition

• Release Date: 01-01-1999

• Dimensions: 7.8 x 4.9 x 0.8 inches

About the Book

R. K. Narayan’s The Guide tells the story of Sriram, a young man who is gradually growing up and finding his place in the world. At the age of twenty, he receives the pass-book to his savings account as a mark of his coming-of-age, but this moment is just one part of his evolving journey. The real transformation begins when Sriram meets the captivating Bharati, a spirited and unpredictable girl, who leads him into the world of Mahatma Gandhi’s entourage.

This tale beautifully intertwines personal growth with the larger fabric of India’s independence movement, capturing the passions, zeal, and contradictions of the time. Sriram's journey toward manhood, guided by his love for Bharati and his admiration for Gandhi, is a delicate balance of idealism, confusion, and self-discovery. Bharati’s loyalty to Gandhi and her own ambitions complicate Sriram’s life, as he is drawn into the conflicting ideals of national pride and the perils of blind patriotism. The story explores the sacrifices and misadventures of Sriram as he navigates his internal struggles and the external forces of a nation striving for independence.

With its insight into the youth of India during the British colonial era, The Guide is a tale of remarkable humanity, humor, and the clash of idealism with real-world challenges. Narayan’s gift for capturing the spirit of India, his characters’ complexities, and the broader national context is beautifully rendered in this deeply thoughtful narrative.

About the Author

R. K. Narayan is a distinguished author whose works have earned him a prominent place in Indian literature. His novels, set in the fictional town of Malgudi, explore the lives, challenges, and triumphs of ordinary people in a changing India. Known for his wit, empathy, and profound understanding of the human condition, Narayan’s books, including The Guide, continue to resonate with readers around the world.