R.K.Narayan and his Short stories

  An Astrologer's Day by R.K.Narayan

Welcome to this blog where we'll explore two fascinating stories: "An Astrologer's Day" and "Crime and Punishment." We'll compare how these stories show us human behavior, morality, and society's impact on our lives. Let's dive in and discover what these tales can teach us about ourselves and the world around us.

R.K. Narayan, originally named Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami, is a monumental figure in Indian literature, particularly noted for his novels set in the fictional town of Malgudi, which draws inspiration from South India's landscapes and ambiance. Alongside literary greats like Mulk Raj Anand and Raja Rao, Narayan is celebrated for pioneering Indian English literature and bringing its rich stories to a global audience. His literary career began with "Swami and Friends" in 1935, a novel that introduced his distinctive storytelling style. A significant influence on Narayan's early career was the acclaimed writer Graham Greene, who played a pivotal role in getting Narayan's first four books published. Among these, the semi-autobiographical trilogy of "Swami and Friends," "The Bachelor of Arts," and "The English Teacher" vividly depicts the joys and struggles of ordinary Indian life.

Narayan's body of work extends beyond this trilogy to include notable books such as "The Financial Expert" (1951) and "The Guide," the latter earning him the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award and being adapted into a successful Hindi film. Often compared to the American author William Faulkner for creating Malgudi, a fictional town brimming with humor and vivid characterizations, Narayan's writings continue to captivate readers with their timeless portrayal of everyday life. His stories are infused with profound human dilemmas and emotions, showcasing his deep understanding of human complexities and narrative prowess.

An Astrologer's Day by R.K. Narayan

 Here some Questions and answers based on this comparison of   short story & short film📽️

Here is the short film available on YouTube - 

1. How faithful is the movie to the original short story?

Ans: The short film stays true to the original story, as noted at the beginning of the video, which states it is an adaptation of Narayan's work. However, the film also incorporates some changes.

2. After watching the movie, has your perception about the short story, characters or situations changed?

Ans: The story had already been read in the classroom, and the language of the work made it easy to imagine. Therefore, there hasn't been a significant shift in perception. Since the characters were already familiar, the short film effectively brought the story to life, using camera work, music, and atmosphere to enhance the experience.

3.Do you feel ‘aesthetic delight’ while watching the movie? If yes, exactly when did it happen? If not, can you explain with reasons?

Ans: Yes, I felt a sense of aesthetic delight while watching the movie. Towards the end of the short story, a moment of aesthetic pleasure arises when the astrologer finally reveals his long-kept secret to his wife. Initially, readers are captivated by the astrologer's remarkable knowledge about Guru Nayak and his past, evoking curiosity and surprise. However, the true revelation comes later: in their youth, the astrologer had impulsively stabbed Guru Nayak during a heated confrontation. This moment of revelation not only shocks but also adds depth to the characters and their intricate history. It is through this disclosure that the story reaches a profound aesthetic satisfaction, as readers are faced with the repercussions of past actions and the complex web of human emotions and relationships.

4. Does screening of movie help you in better understanding of the short story?

Ans: Yes, it aided in a better understanding of the astrologer's past. The camera work skillfully depicted the past in black-and-white frames, capturing the quarrel between Guru Nayak and the protagonist with precision.

5. Was there any particular scene or moment in the story that you think was perfect?

Ans: The revelation scene is done perfectly, showing the astrologer's true identity and the moment when his wife mentions that sweets will be made at home after a long time. The story also highlights the struggles of the poor, who often have to take on such professions to make a living.

6. If you are the director, what changes would you like to make in the remaking of the movie based on the short story “An Astrologer’s Day” by R.K.Narayan ?

Ans: If I were the director, I would take some creative liberties to update the story. Firstly, I’d set it in a modern context, with the astrologer working in an office instead of under a tree. This change would reflect the profession as a contemporary business. 

I’d also update the attire: the astrologer would wear professional clothing, while his clients would be dressed in modern fashion. Despite their modern appearance, their attitudes might still reflect old-fashioned beliefs. Guru Nayak would be reimagined as a successful businessman who seeks revenge. A key twist would be making the astrologer a hacker. By hacking into social media, he would identify Guru Nayak and expose him, adding a modern twist to the story.

• crime and Punishment  •

The roles of teacher and student are always complex and influenced by their ages. After parents, teachers are the first mentors in a child’s life, guiding their development. As children step out of the safety of their homes, they encounter a world full of new experiences, people, and environments. The presence of a good teacher can make this world feel like a paradise.

Teachers play a crucial role in helping students learn creativity, art, critical thinking, and the richness of the world around them. A great mentor can profoundly impact a student's life. This is reflected in stories like R.K. Narayan’s, where a teacher protects a student from their parents’ anger. Similarly, films such as Taare Zameen Par, Hichki, and Black showcase how teachers can transform students' lives.

"The Karate Kid" (2010)

The remake features Dre Parker, a young boy who moves to China and learns kung fu from Mr. Han, a maintenance man with a hidden past. Mr. Han helps Dre navigate cultural challenges and personal struggles while teaching him kung fu.

Teacher-Student Relationship: In this , Mr. Han’s role as a mentor is equally profound. His teaching goes beyond martial arts, addressing Dre's self-confidence and resilience. The film emphasises the importance of patience and understanding in the teacher-student relationship, showcasing how Mr. Han’s guidance helps Dre overcome personal and external obstacles.

Another movie, Super 30, showcases how a teacher like Anand Kumar makes a significant impact on the lives of underprivileged children. One of the most famous lines from the film, "Ab Raja ka beta Raja nahi banega," highlights the principle that every student should have an equal opportunity based on their abilities.

Hichki is a striking example of a teacher's dedication to shaping students' lives. Despite facing criticism due to her speech disorder, the protagonist wins the students' hearts and inspires them to engage in learning.

In conclusion, the adaptation of R.K. Narayan's "An Astrologer's Day" into a short film successfully captures the essence of the original story while introducing contemporary elements that enhance its relevance. This adaptation, alongside modern films like Super 30 and Hichki, highlights the crucial role of teachers in transforming students' lives and shaping their futures. These stories collectively underscore the profound impact of mentorship, demonstrating how dedicated educators can overcome personal and societal challenges to inspire and elevate their students, regardless of the medium through which their stories are told.

"We must be willing to let go of the life we had planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us."

 – The Guide

Thank you .

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