Social Protest in Telugu Literature : Some Reflections (1874-1947)

Contents: Preface. 1. Social conditions in Andhra. 2. Social protest in Telugu literature in the Nineteenth century. 3. Social protest in Telugu literature, 1901-1920. 4. National movement and social protest, 1921-1935. 5. National movement, socialist ideology and class conflict. Conclusion. Bibliography. Index.

The period between 1874 and 1947 witnessed an unprecedented flux of literature in Telugu, articulating the approach of authors to the burning evil practices of the day found in Hindu society. The activity of advocates of social change was chiefly oriented toward creating awareness among the general public about the disastrous consequences of social customs and practices present in the then social system. The writers strongly protested against such practices in their works and chose simple Telugu language as a tool to effectively spread the message of social change among people. Naturally their efforts, particularly on the issues of widow marriage and nautch parties, were sternly opposed by the guardians of status quo, who through their published works, endeavoured to block the spread of reformist ideas. The present study focuses on the literature produced mainly by the social reform leadership, the writings of conservatives are not totally ignored. The anti-reform activity was strong in the 19th century but it declined significantly in the 20th century.

The pro-reform authors of the period formulated a vision for shaping the social system of the Andhra region in accordance with their interpretation of ancient Hindu scriptures. They chose different popular forms of literary expression-farces, essays, novels, plays, poetry, songs etc—to propagate their ideas. The themes in their works related to foreign travel, girls education, infant marriage, post-puberty marriage, widow marriage, Panchamas, nautch parties etc. The anti-colonial struggle and spread of socialist ideas attracted to the campaign against entrenched conservatism a new crop of writers obsessed with progressive views. Untouchability, dowry, professional prostitution, drink, plight of farmers and agricultural labourers received special attention in their works. The popularity of many of these literary masterpieces was an indication of percolation of the message of social change. The book provides a succinct account of the view-points of the reform party as revealed in their literary contributions on the subject. These writings helped in a significant way to accelerate the pace of modernization of Andhra society. (jacket)