WILL A NEW DAWN RISE UP IN THE HORIZON OF THE VOICELESS IN THE SHORT STORIES OF BAMA? (Pages 285-297) by Ms. G. Meenachi in THE ENGLISH RESEARCH EXPRESS / ISSN:2321-1164 (Online); 2347-2642 (Print)

As a Dalit protagonist writer, Bama’s contribution towards the betterment of her society is remarkable. For so many generations, Dalits’ silence is taken for granted and it is construed that they are submissive. This paper focuses on Bama’s short stories gathered in a book named “Harum Scarum Saar and Other Stories”. ‘Harum Scarum’ means a notorious fellow’s attitude which is called in Tamil “Kisumbukkaran” that is rebellious prankster. Bama through her bawdy comments challenge the acrimonious society and she expects her people to fight for their rights. She gives voice to those people who are voiceless for generation to generation. This paper tries to explore how Bama spreads the defiant message that encourages Dalits, despite all atrocities, to stand firm and fight against all the indignities and the destructive factors that hinder the creation of an equal and just society. It underscores the positive vision of Bama to wake up her society from the siesta of slavery. Firstly, it focuses on the sufferings of the Dalit people and secondly, it shows how they come out of their submissive end to reach the survivor’s end. It concludes that the new dawn for the Dalit is not too far since Bama gives voice to those voiceless who suffer as untouchables for ages. Key Words: Dalit community, casteism, touchables, authoritarianism, wooden creatures, domineering upper caste society.