Dogri Novels Depict Critical Issues
Book Review by O P Sharma
Book: “Dogri upnyaasen ch varg sangharsh”
Author: Dr. Chanchal Bhasin 
The book entitled “Dogri upnyaasen ch varg sang-harsh” (Class struggle in Dogri novels) is a serious study has been conducted by the author by depicting the condition of the down-trodden sections as portrayed in the Dogri novels. It is clear that since long the poor sections of the society are exploited by the feudal lords. While many follow the beaten track and fall prey to exploitation but very few dare to try to oppose this course. The Dogri novels do depict them and reflect the true picture of the society. There are examples in the Dogri literature wherein the writers have tried to give justice to the exploited class. Dogri novels many times project the real issues and try to awake the exploited class.
Analytical Study
Dr. Bhasin’s analytical work is spread over in seven chapters in which classification of class, problems being faced by the down-trodden, atrocities committed by the landlords, capitalists and few others have been discussed. In another chapter core relationship between the man and the society, the work culture, social values, as also their political, economical and religious disputes have been objectively analyzed. The author has thoroughly brought under her scrutiny the Dogri novels like: Dharan te Dhuran by Prof. Madan Mohan Sharma; Shano by Narender Khajuria; Haad, Bedi Pattan by Ved Rahi; Phull Bina Dahli by Shri Bats Vikal; Drar by Ved Rahi; Badsis by Shakuntla Birpuri; Jisalai Nhera pei Gaya by Pishori lal Sharar;Trutti di Dor by Ved Rahi; Sarkande by Kewal Krishan Shakir and Kanni Barsaant by Narsingh Dev Jamwal. In the third and fourth chapters, many examples can be observed wherein the impact of Marxism in the Dogri novels along with the evil designs of the exploiting class.
Variety of Novels
Another set of Dogri novels comprising: Bhukkh and Bakkhre-Bakkhre Sachch both by Shiv Dev Singh Sushil; Jeevandaan by Tara Daanpuri; Palkhin by Om Gosami; Kaidi, Piokai Bhejo and Jaangali Lok all three by Desh Bandhu Dogra Nutan; In the fifth chapter psychological flank of the Dogri novel has been discussed wherein political leaders, police, business men and intellectual class etc towards the common man has been highlighted. Novels are:- Treh Samundar Di, Nanga Rukkh, Makaan, Resham de keedhe and Patthar de Rang all four by O.P. Sharma Sarathi and also Narsingh Dev Jamwal ‘s Bin Kandhen Kotha. The political and historical scenario of the society has been systematically been studied in Dogri novels: Sanjhi Dharti Bhakhle Mahanu, Garbhjun and Baahve di Rajkumari by Narsingh Dev Jamwal, Ved Rahi and D C Prshant respectively.
Prolific Writer
As it is a research work done by Dr Bhasin, this book rightly contains an appendix and a detailed bibliography which adds to its merit. This book vividly gives graphic account of the tragic tales of exploitation which are really touched by any heart, noticed by the eyes and strongly felt by the brain. It also highlights the problems of poor, down-trodden and working class who suffers in the hands of landlords and capitalists. The women folks too have to face bitter hardships. Being illiterate and confined to domestic chores alone they were the one who were exploited most. In this society, the condition of poor is deplorable and they are getting poorer while the rich are becoming more rich! It is really a challenge to humanity.
Must Reading Book
Prof. Dr Champa Sharma, Sahitya Akademi Awardee in Dogri, has put in good word about the research work done by Dr Bhasin. Prof. Jog Raj, Principal (CIIL) UTRC, in his message, has opined that readers will appreciate the sincere efforts and vision of the author to highlight the existing problem of the society. Chanchal Bhasin after PhD in Dogri from the University of Jammu is in the teaching profession and got Best Teacher’s award in 2009. She is a prolific writer in her mother tongue and is presently Secretary (Literary) with the Dogri Sanstha, Jammu which is a premier literary and cultural organization of Duggar. This 207-page book has many social, cultural and political dimensions and has already created an impact in the literary circles. This well researched work will be of much interest for the academicians, researchers, planners and administrators as also the common citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. The book has been moderately priced and it should adorn the book shelves of every reader.
(Starline Syndicate Service)
