Partition and Displacement: Exploring Trauma, Migration, Identity and Riots in Post-Partition Urdu Novels on Uttar Pradesh India

Abstract

The paper brings to light the theme of the 1947 riots and migration as depicted in Urdu novels. It identifies Urdu novels that specifically focus on the riots and displacement that occurred in Uttar Pradesh and its neighboring regions. The tumultuous events transformed the lives of millions into a tragic story. Artists with sensitive souls deeply felt the profound sorrow. Predominantly, the study is underpinned by the theories of trauma and migration that focus on the psychological and cultural implications of displacement, violence, and erasure of identity in post-partition literature. This study used the quantitative method of analysis to investigate the role of key Urdu novels that address partition and its impact on those experiencing displacement in society. Some writers concentrated on the horrific scenes of bloodshed, looting, desecration of human values, and dishonor during the riots. Primary data is sourced from Urdu literature; novelists like Intizar Hussain, Khadija Mastur, Qurratulain Hyder, and Altaf Fatima, among others, have narrated the stories of the regions beyond Punjab where the agony of riots and migration was particularly immense. 'Chaand Gahan,' 'Basti,' 'Aage Samandar Hai,' 'Aag Ka Darya,' 'Aangan,' and 'Dastak Na Do' are some of those novels in Urdu. These novelists have given voice to the emotions and challenges faced by migrants in their new homes after migration. This research explores the works of these novelists, and the analytical investigation reveals that the division of India is still one of the great post-war traumas that have timelessly changed the fate of millions of people. Subtle emotions of the epoch have been portrayed by tormented artists. Some writers focused on the aspects of massacre, plunder, shamelessness of human values, and rape.