* Volume 3 of Transformations in Management is open for submissions until 30 August 2026. *
Chapter 174
Untouchable Practices and Pseudo Space of Humanity in Perumal Murugan’s Seasons of the Palm
Mr. Narasimmarao P V, Assistant Professor & Ph. D Scholar, Department of English, Hindustan College of Arts and Science, University of Madras & Dr U. Thanesh, AssociateProfessor & Research Supervisor, Department of English, Ramakrishnan Mission, Vivekanan
From the perspective of exploitation, a man who has been discriminated against by the treatment of untouchable practices and inhumane mannerisms is considered marginalized or a Dalit. Perumal Murugan’s Seasons of the Palm portrays the discrimination meted out to Dalit boys and exploitation resulting from the social factors prevalent in Tamil society, such as caste and economic hierarchy during modern times. The novel, originally written in Tamil in 2002, was translated into English by V. Geetha in 2004. The chosen novel is a treasure trove providing perspectives on day-to-day living, sufferings, joys, ethos, and struggles of marginalized sections. The research paper attempts to depict the plight of Dalits in contemporary Tamil society. The social factors that marginalize Dalits are identified, and the struggle of Dalits to secure equal rights is highlighted.
