Tamas, Bhisham Sahni, Plot Summary
Learn Further ▾ Background Plot Summary Critical Analysis Major Themes Characterization Symbols & Symbolism As Partition Novel 20 Q&As Plot Summary
In Tamas, a laborer is tricked into killing a pig, and its carcass is placed at the entrance of a mosque, sparking violent communal riots between Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs during the Partition of 1947. Once harmonious neighbors turn against each other, driven by deep-seated hatred. The political tensions rise as the Muslim League demands a separate nation for Muslims, while the Congress Party insists on secularism and the RSS promotes Hindu nationalism, all amidst the indifference of the British colonial government, which claims non-interference in religious matters. The novel portrays the tragic consequences of this violence, such as the senseless murder of a blind Muslim man. Characters like Dev Datt, a communist, highlight that the middle class will suffer the most, as the poor and the wealthy have different priorities. Young Ranvir,…