Resurrecting Histories: A Historical Analysis of Colonial References in Modern Indian Poetry

Authors

Prof. Dilip Raghunath Kute

Abstract

This research paper delves into the intricate relationship between colonial references and modern Indian poetry, offering a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted ways in which contemporary poets engage with the historical legacy of colonialism. The primary research objectives were to identify the frequency and types of colonial references in selected poems, explore poets' responses to these references, and examine regional, gender, and temporal variations in their presence. The research methodology involved qualitative content analysis of modern Indian poetry anthologies using NVivo 12 Pro software.
The key findings of this study revealed the diversity of colonial references in modern Indian poetry, encompassing various types such as colonial imagery, historical events, cultural assimilation, resistance, and colonial legacy. Poets responded to these references in nuanced ways, from critique and reinterpretation to reflection on identity and legacy. Regional variations indicated distinct historical experiences and cultural responses, while gender-related differences prompted further exploration into gender and postcolonial experiences in poetry. The balanced distribution of colonial references across time periods emphasized their enduring relevance in contemporary India.
The implications of this research extend beyond literature, shedding light on cultural memory, identity, and the evolving dynamics of postcolonial societies. These findings invite ongoing critical engagement with colonial legacies and emphasize the continuity of historical discourse in the context of contemporary artistic expression.

Keywords

Colonial references, modern Indian poetry, qualitative content analysis, postcolonial literature, cultural identity, regional variations, gender dynamics, cultural memory.

Resurrecting Histories: A Historical Analysis of Colonial References in Modern Indian Poetry. Prof. Dilip Raghunath Kute. 2023. IJIRCT, Volume 9, Issue 5. Pages 1-11. https://www.ijirct.org/viewPaper.php?paperId=2401003