Exploring human existence: An analysis of Nanda Singh Borkola's Assamese novel "Hadirachoki"

Nanda Singh Borkola, a Sikh-Assamese writer and poet, presents a compelling blend of historical narrative and contemporary insight in his Assamese novel, Hadirachoki. Milan Kundera, in his seminal work The Art of The Novel, posits that a truly successful novel delves into unexplored aspects of human existence. Borkola's Hadirachoki navigates such uncharted territories by shedding light on the struggles of the Sikh community in Assam, Punjab, and Delhi, offering a nuanced exploration of their historical journey and contemporary challenges.

Drawing parallels with Giles Deluze and Felix Guettery's work on minority literature, Borkola's narrative reflects a process of linguistic re-territorialization, capturing the essence of Sikh experience within the Assamese language. Through meticulous historical research, Borkola elucidates the identity crisis and hardships faced by the Sikh minority in Assam, providing poignant insights into their past tribulations and ongoing struggles for assimilation.

Similar to William Faulkner's evocative portrayal of Yoknapatawpha County, Borkola immortalizes the landscape of Hadirachoki, infusing the narrative with poetic imagery and metaphors. Delving into Assamese culture, he pays homage to figures like Sankardeva, intertwining historical events with lyrical prose reminiscent of Vikram Seth's The Golden Gate.

Borkola's narrative transcends mere realism, embracing elements of experimental storytelling and intertextuality, echoing the elegiac tones of Elizabeth Barrett Browning. By intertwining political commentary with folkloric elements, he crafts a symphony of diverse cultures, confronting issues like illegal immigration and demographic shifts in Lower Assam.

The novel illuminates pivotal historical episodes, such as the Ahom-Sikh alliance against Burmese invaders, underscoring the resilience of subaltern figures amidst the tumult of history. Despite the Assamese Sikh community's sacrifices and integration into mainstream society, Borkola poignantly portrays their continued marginalization in social, economic, and political spheres.

Within the narrative tapestry, a poignant love story unfolds, adding depth to the exploration of identity crisis within the Assamese Sikh community. Through meticulous historical detail, Borkola challenges grand narratives of modernity, echoing Jean Francois Lyotard's skepticism towards meta-narratives.

The novel's multi-dimensional narrative spans across Delhi, Punjab, and Assam, encapsulating pivotal moments in Indian history, including the tragic assassination of a Prime Minister and its aftermath. Borkola's narrative broadens the horizons of Assamese literature, transcending provincial boundaries and warranting translation into English and other Indian languages.

In conclusion, Hadirachoki stands as a testament to Borkola's literary prowess, offering a profound exploration of human resilience amidst historical upheaval. While acknowledging minor editorial issues, the novel's thematic richness and narrative depth warrant acclaim and further dissemination across linguistic boundaries.

Subhajit Bhadra teaches English at Bongaigaon University. He can be reached at :subhajit.bhadra@gmail.com