The Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue, stands majestically on the banks of the Narmada River. My recent visit to the Statue of Unity—the second one—was a deeply reflective experience, stirring thoughts that connected my work at Birsa Munda Tribal University and my reading of 'Tatvamasi' by Dhruv Bhatt. The towering monument of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel stands as a symbol of unity and leadership, but for me, this visit held much more meaning beyond the physical structure. It led to a contemplation of the tribal communities living near the Narmada River, their traditions, struggles, and the deep spiritual connection they share with nature.
The Intersection of Work, Nature, and Literature
This reflection is tied to my current professional and personal journey. Since I began working at Birsa Munda Tribal University, located in Rajpipla, I’ve become more aware of the tribal communities that surround us and the life they lead—often close to the land and deeply rooted in traditions passed down over generations. My work in this environment, combined with Dhruv Bhatt’s novel 'Tatvamasi', has enriched my understanding of these people and their worldview, offering me a unique lens to appreciate their relationship with nature and spirituality.
"આનંદ કેવો છે, તે જગ્યા અને સમયથી મૌલિક રીતે જોડાયેલો છે."
(The joy one experiences is inherently connected to the place and time.)
This line from Tatvamasi reverberated within me as I navigated the real-world parallels between the novel and my work. Being amidst nature, in a region so deeply interwoven with the traditions of tribal communities, I could feel the weight of Bhatt’s words. Reading 'Tatvamasi' in this context has been an enriching experience, as the novel aligns perfectly with my environment. Bhatt’s detailed depiction of the people, places, and culture around the Narmada River is more than just fiction—it mirrors the reality I encounter daily in my work and travels.
‘Tatvamasi’ by Dhruv Bhatt: An Overview
‘The novel 'Tatvamasi' is an exceptional piece of Gujarati literature, capturing the essence of tribal life along the Narmada River. It vividly depicts the people, their traditions, their relationship with nature, and the geographical beauty of the area. The novel revolves around an unnamed narrator who returns to India after many years at the request of his professor, Rudolf, to conduct research on tribal communities.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to immerse the reader into the depths of tribal life. Through the narrator’s eyes, we observe the simple yet profound existence of these people, who live in harmony with nature, often amidst dire poverty. Bhatt introduces a range of characters—Supriya, BittuBanga, Ganesh Shastri, Guptaji, Puriya, Gandu Fakir, and Ditya—each of whom adds depth to the story, representing different facets of life, spirituality, and wisdom.
"પ્રકૃતિ અને માનવી, બંનેના સંબંધમાં ભક્તિ છે." (There is devotion in the relationship between nature and humanity.)
This line, echoed throughout the book, perfectly encapsulates the theme of unity that runs through the novel and my experiences. It calls to attention the intrinsic bond between the tribal communities and their environment.
Reflections and Connections
Reading 'Tatvamasi' and visiting the Statue of Unity has led me to reflect on several themes and ideas that have become more prominent in my mind since working at Birsa Munda Tribal University. The intersection of modern development, as symbolized by the Statue of Unity, with the ancient, deeply rooted traditions of the tribal people around the Narmada River, creates a complex tapestry of thought.
The Impact of Development on Tribal Communities
One of the recurring thoughts during my visit to the Statue of Unity was the contrast between the grandeur of the statue and the simplicity of tribal life as portrayed in 'Tatvamasi'. The statue, a marvel of modern engineering, stands as a symbol of India’s progress and unity. Yet, the tribal communities that have lived near the Narmada for generations often remain marginalized, their ways of life threatened by the very development that the statue represents.
"આ પાણીની જેમ આપણી પરંપરાઓ પણ વહેતી રહેવી જોઈએ, રોકાઈ નહિ." (Like this water, our traditions too should flow freely, not be halted.) This line from Tatvamasi reflects the tension between preservation and progress. The novel emphasizes the close connection between the tribal people and their environment, reminding us that development can sometimes obstruct the very essence of life for these communities.
Spirituality and Nature in 'Tatvamasi'
Another striking theme in 'Tatvamasi' is the profound spirituality that governs the lives of the tribal characters. For them, nature is not just a resource to be used, but a living entity to be revered. The Narmada River is sacred, and their existence is deeply tied to its ebb and flow.
In the novel, characters like Supriya and Gandu Fakir represent different aspects of this spirituality. Supriya, who runs an ashram deep in the forest, is devoted to preserving the tribal way of life and ensuring that their traditions are respected. Gandu Fakir, on the other hand, embodies the more mystical, philosophical side of tribal spirituality, offering insights that go beyond religious doctrine and speak to a deeper understanding of life and the universe.
"અહીં, કુદરત છે એટલે ભક્તિ છે, આ કાનૂનથી નહિ ચાલે." (Here, there is devotion because there is nature; this doesn’t operate by law.) The novel shows that for the tribal people, spirituality is a daily lived experience, deeply connected to their natural surroundings, something that resonates with my own observations.
Characters that Reflect Tribal Life
Each character in 'Tatvamasi' plays a significant role in bringing the narrative to life and highlighting different aspects of tribal culture.
Supriya is perhaps the most pivotal character, representing a bridge between the traditional and the modern. She is committed to protecting the tribal people and ensuring that their connection to the land and nature is not lost in the rush toward modernization.
Bitubanga, the inseparable duo, showcases the creative genius of the tribal communities. Their architectural and artistic skills are highlighted, emphasizing how the tribes create structures that harmonize with their environment.
Ganesh Shastri offers a critical perspective on religious dogma, advocating for a more inclusive, spiritual approach that transcends rigid ritualistic practices.
Gandu Fakir, as mentioned earlier, brings a philosophical depth to the novel, reminding the reader that true spirituality is found in everyday actions and choices, not in grand displays of piety.
Supriya: Embodiment of Selflessness and Cultural Preservation
One of the most compelling characters in the novel is Supriya, a woman who lives in the heart of the forest, running a small ashram dedicated to serving the tribal people. Her character stands out because of her deep commitment to preserving the tribal way of life. Unlike many outsiders who try to impose changes or modernize the tribes, Supriya’s approach is rooted in respect. She believes that it’s not her role to change these people but to support their traditions and way of life.
The narrator is initially surprised by Supriya, expecting an older, Gandhian figure but finding instead a young, vibrant woman who is deeply intellectual and spiritual. Supriya is not just a caretaker of the people but a preserver of their culture, someone who navigates the complex dynamics between tribal traditions and the outside world with wisdom and grace. She embodies the ideal of selflessness, devoting her life to ensuring that the tribal people maintain their autonomy and connection to nature.
Her character reminds me of the importance of humility when interacting with cultures different from our own. Like Supriya, we should aim to support rather than impose, understanding that true respect comes from recognizing the value of traditions that may seem foreign to us.
Gandu Fakir: Spiritual Wisdom and Discipline
Another unforgettable character in the novel is Gandu Fakir, a man who appears to be a madman but whose words and actions reveal deep spiritual insight. He embodies the idea that true spirituality is not confined to religious rituals or doctrines but is something much more profound, connected to the soul and the universe itself.
In one memorable scene, Gandu Fakir, Supriya, the narrator, and Bitubanga are invited to eat at a local's home in the jungle, but when they arrive, there is nothing to offer except Mahudi, a traditional drink, and salt. The extreme poverty of the region is evident here, as the host struggles to even provide basic sustenance. Gandu Fakir’s response is telling: he drinks the Mahudi, while Supriya accepts a pinch of salt, respecting the gesture of hospitality despite the humble offering.
Later, when Supriya offers to feed Gandu Fakir at the ashram, he refuses, saying:
"છોરી મે કયું આતા હું તેરે સાથ? મતલબ સમજતી હો? મતલબ મે સમજતા હું. અગર આજ મે તેરે ઘર ખાતા હું તો મતલબ હે અસ બુઢને હમે ભૂખ નિકાલા હૈ."
This line struck me because it shows the depth of Gandu Fakir’s understanding of spiritual discipline. He sees eating elsewhere as an insult to the hospitality they’ve already received, showing his commitment to living with integrity, even in the smallest actions. His refusal is not madness, as it first seems, but a reflection of his deeper spiritual principles.
Another powerful moment comes during a musical function, where Gandu Fakir sings a song:
Afterward, someone refers to Gandu Fakir as mad, to which Ganesh Shastri responds: "આપ જિસકી આરાધના કરતે હૈ ઔર મે જિસકી પૂજા કરતાં હું, ઉસકા દોસ્ત હૈ વહ." These lines convey something profound about spirituality—about the connection between religion and the soul that transcends rituals and formal beliefs.
Gandu Fakir’s character illustrates the idea that spirituality is not about grand gestures or public displays of piety. It’s about how we live our everyday lives, the choices we make, and the respect we show to others, even in the smallest interactions. This resonates with the simplicity and integrity that is often found in tribal cultures, where spirituality is deeply embedded in everyday life, rather than being a separate, formalized practice.
Ganesh Shastri: Critique of Religious Dogma
The character of Ganesh Shastri offers another layer of philosophical depth to the novel. A man deeply religious but not confined by dogma, Shastri represents a more open, inclusive view of spirituality. In his exchanges with Gupta, Shastri questions the rigid adherence to religious rituals and emphasizes the importance of spirituality over formal religion.
One of his lines that resonated with me was:
Shastri’s views on dharma are crystal clear, and I will quote him directly to preserve the original essence of his words:
Shastri's reflections challenge the rigid frameworks of religion, instead focusing on the cultural practices that sustain society. He questions the very notion of what we consider religious duty, highlighting the distinction between spirituality and organized religion. According to Shastri, the real strength of Indian culture lies in its spiritual freedom, which transcends the confines of dharma and ritual.
As the novel unfolds, the narrator himself grapples with these ideas, reflecting on his own lack of faith in ritualistic practices while acknowledging the importance of having faith in humanity and in the tribal civilization he is studying. When he expresses the desire to "improve" the tribal people, Shastri gently questions the right to impose change, saying, “આદિવાસીઓને સુધારવાનો અધિકાર આપનો છે કે નહીં તે હું નથી જાણતો. 'હા, તું જો આદિવાસીઓના જીવન સુધારી શકે તો મને ખૂબ આનંદ થાય", This prompts reflection on how we, as outsiders, often seek to reform others without first understanding their true needs.
Shastri’s words are a powerful critique of the way religious practices often overshadow the deeper spiritual truths they are meant to express. He advocates for a spiritual connection that transcends the boundaries of any single religion, suggesting that true spirituality is about our personal relationship with the divine, or Brahma, rather than the rituals and doctrines of organized religion.
In a country like India, where religion plays a huge role in daily life, Shastri’s perspective is a reminder of the importance of looking beyond the rituals to the essence of what spirituality truly means. His view is especially relevant today, where divisions along religious lines often overshadow the common spiritual values that bind us together as human beings.
Bitubanga: A Symbol of Tribal Wisdom
The duo of Bittu and Banga, collectively referred to as Bitubanga, adds yet another dimension to the novel. These two characters are inseparable and represent the architectural and creative brilliance of the tribal people. Their ability to build structures that blend seamlessly with nature, serving both human and divine purposes, is a testament to the tribal wisdom that has been passed down through generations.
When Banga is killed by a tiger, Bittu’s grief is overwhelming, but what is most striking is his response. Despite his desire for revenge, Bittu chooses to let the tigress live, understanding that she, too, is a mother protecting her cubs. This act of forgiveness and compassion highlights the deep respect that the tribal people have for all life, even in the face of personal loss.
The character of Bitubanga symbolizes the wisdom of simplicity—the idea that true strength comes not from domination over nature but from living in harmony with it. This is a theme that resonates throughout the novel and is reflected in the lives of the tribal people, who have learned to adapt to their environment rather than trying to control it.
Belief systems/Blind Faith:
In Tatvamasi, Dhruv Bhatt subtly explores how tribal communities often hold onto certain superstitions or beliefs that, while rooted in their traditional worldview, may sometimes lead to misinterpretations. A key example of this is the character of Puriya, who is seen as a witch by the community. This perception highlights the element of blind faith prevalent among the tribal people, where fear and misunderstanding often shape their beliefs about individuals and events.
The notion of wildfire prediction is another example where natural events are linked with spiritual or mystical significance. While these predictions might stem from accumulated knowledge and observation of nature, they also reflect the tribes’ mystical interpretation of natural occurrences. In the novel, such beliefs—though part of the rich cultural fabric—can occasionally distort reality, leading to misunderstandings or fear-based judgments.
This portrayal emphasizes the thin line between traditional wisdom and superstition, showing how tribal people might lean on faith and tradition to explain complex or unexpected phenomena, rather than relying on empirical understanding. Through these examples, Bhatt raises questions about the effects of blind faith in communities that otherwise possess deep connections to nature and spiritual practices. The assumptions made about Puriya being a witch, for instance, point to the dangers of misinterpretation within closely-knit societies where such labels can have long-lasting consequences.
Ecocriticism and the Connection to Nature:
One of the most important themes in ‘Tatvamasi’ is the connection between humans and nature, a theme central to ecocriticism. The novel highlights how the tribal people depend on the land for their survival, but it also shows how nature can be both nurturing and destructive. The wildfires that force people to flee their homes serve as a reminder of the delicate balance that exists between humans and their environment.
This relationship between the tribes and their environment is one of mutual respect. The people understand that they are part of the natural world, not separate from it, and their survival depends on maintaining that balance. This theme is especially relevant in today’s world, where environmental degradation and climate change are threatening the survival of communities like these, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.
Interestingly, when I watched the movie ‘Reva’, which is based on the novel, I noticed that many of these ecological elements were downplayed or lost in the adaptation. The film focuses more on the human drama, but the environmental context—which is so integral to the novel—is not given the same weight. This is a crucial aspect of the story that I think deserves more attention, as it is the land itself that shapes the lives and beliefs of the characters in the novel.
Conclusion: An Ongoing Reflection:
My experiences—visiting the Statue of Unity, working at Birsa Munda Tribal University, and reading 'Tatvamasi'—have created a space for reflection on the tribal communities that have long called the Narmada region home. "વિશ્વ તત્વમસિ, તું તે છે." (The world is you, you are it.) This core teaching from the novel encapsulates the universal truth of interconnectedness, a message that resonates as I navigate these experiences.
The novel captures the delicate balance these communities maintain with nature and the spiritual wisdom that guides their lives. At the same time, the Statue of Unity stands as a reminder of India’s progress and ambition, making me question how development and tradition can coexist without one overpowering the other.
