Major themes in Raja Rao's Kanthapura

Abstract

This study explores the major themes in Kanthapura, Raja Rao’s seminal novel that portrays the impact of the Gandhian freedom movement on a South Indian village. The research examines key themes such as nationalism, social hierarchy, tradition vs. modernity, and women’s empowerment. By analyzing the narrative through postcolonial, sociopolitical, and feminist lenses, the paper highlights how Rao blends Indian storytelling traditions with political consciousness to depict the transformative power of collective resistance.