The novel opens with Bakha, the protagonist, performing his duties as a sweeper in the town of Bulandshahr. As he goes about his work, he is confronted by the disdain and contempt of the higher-caste individuals he encounters. The discrimination is not just physical but is deeply embedded in the social and cultural fabric of the town.
Bakha’s day takes a turn when he attends a political meeting where a charismatic leader speaks about the need for social reform and the upliftment of the untouchables. This experience stirs something within Bakha, igniting a spark of hope and a desire for change. However, this hope is short-lived as he faces more instances of humiliation and degradation throughout the day.
One pivotal moment occurs when Bakha accidentally touches a high-caste man while offering him water. This seemingly innocuous act leads to a violent reaction from the man and those around him, highlighting the extreme sensitivity surrounding caste-based interactions. This incident serves as a catalyst for Bakha’s growing awareness of the dehumanizing nature of the caste system.
As the day progresses, Bakha reflects on his own aspirations and dreams. He yearns for education and a life beyond the constraints of his social status. His encounters with various characters — from the liberal colonial master to the orthodox priest — expose the complexity of the social structure and the different forces that contribute to the perpetuation of untouchability.
In the climax of the novel, Bakha attends a religious fair, hoping for a sense of spiritual upliftment. However, he is once again confronted with discrimination, leading to a moment of profound despair. The novel concludes with Bakha grappling with the harsh reality of his existence, his dreams overshadowed by the weight of societal prejudices.
“Untouchable” is a poignant exploration of the human cost of social injustice, and Bakha’s story serves as a powerful indictment of the caste system in India. Mulk Raj Anand skillfully uses Bakha’s experiences to shed light on the urgent need for social reform and the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of caste or social status.
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