Comparative Study: 'Hard Times' vs. 'Tamasha'.

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  This blog illuminates the intricate interplay between Charles Dickens' "Hard Times" and Imtiaz Ali's "Tamasha," exploring shared themes and differences.

"Hard Times" by Charles Dickens and the Hindi film "Tamasha" directed by Imtiaz Ali are two distinct works of literature and cinema, respectively, yet they share thematic parallels that make for an intriguing comparative study.

"Hard Times," a classic Victorian novel published in 1854, is a scathing critique of industrialization and utilitarianism. Set in the fictional town of Coketown, Dickens portrays a society dominated by mechanization, where human emotions and imagination are suppressed in favor of cold, hard facts. Characters like Thomas Gradgrind and Mr. Bounderby epitomize the dehumanizing effects of this society, adhering strictly to utilitarian principles and denying the importance of emotions and individuality. Dickens uses his omniscient narrator to expose the soullessness of this world, where human beings are treated as mere cogs in a machine.

In contrast, "Tamasha," released in 2015, explores the modern-day struggle for self-identity and authenticity. The film's protagonist, Ved, initially conforms to societal expectations, suppressing his true self to fit into a predetermined mold. However, his journey takes him to Corsica, where he rediscovers his creativity and passion. The film artfully blurs the lines between reality and imagination, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's authentic self. It challenges the notion of conforming to societal norms and encourages individuals to break free from the constraints placed upon them.

Despite the different mediums and time periods, both works address the conflict between societal expectations and personal desires. "Hard Times" critiques the rigid structures of the Victorian era, while "Tamasha" examines contemporary Indian society's pressures. Both call attention to the dehumanizing effects of conformity and the importance of embracing one's individuality and creativity.

In conclusion, "Hard Times" and "Tamasha" offer valuable insights into the human condition and the struggle for authenticity in the face of societal pressures. While one is a classic novel and the other a modern Bollywood film, their shared themes of individualism, societal conformity, and the pursuit of true identity make them worthy subjects for a comparative study, highlighting the enduring relevance of these ideas across time and culture.

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Assigned by:- Dilip Barad sir( Professor at English Department MKBU)

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