Tradition in Turmoil: Human Relationships in the Wake of Modernism in Jayakanthan’s Narrative

Abstract

One of the most well-known writers of Tamil fiction after independence is D. Jayakanthan. He portrays the rapid modernization-induced social change in urban Tamil Nadu. His books show people torn between their new, contemporary selves and their old ideals. The emergence of modernity brought about by urbanisation and changing gender roles is depicted with seriousness. This is his main theme, which causes conflict in his books. This piece examines Jayakanthan’s depiction of the struggle between tradition and modernity in human life.  How his women and urban professionals go through this transition is of interest to it. Two novels are compared in the study: Oru Nadigai Nadagam Paarkiraal and Sila Nerangalil Sila Manithargal. It incorporates concepts about modern life and urban change from sociology, gender studies, and literary modernism. His characters frequently reject strict traditional values.  They assert control over sexuality, love, and judgement. However, social criticism, introspection, and alienation are all part of their lives. Women are both victims and agents of change. Despite their emotional cost, they oppose patriarchy. There is both hope and the perils of modernity in his portrayal of urban life. Human relationships become strained, changed, or even destroyed. Jayakanthan exposes the uncertainties of modernity and criticises strict tradition. Relationship change is complex and not always freeing, as his work demonstrates. His status as a realist author of a changing society is supported by this research. It learns about the moral and emotional pains of cultural change