This blog assignment has been given by Dilip Barad sir as a component of our thinking activity centered around the novel "Revolution Twenty20" by Chetan Bhagat. I will be discussing various points to ponder, as provided to us for this task. You can find the link to sir's blog here: https://blog.dilipbarad.com/2021/12/revolution2020.html?authuser=0.
Here are some Points to Ponder:-
1) Social realism of corruption in private education system.
2) Contemporary relevance of Raghav's journalism [The YouTuber / social media journalism in today's India].
3) Do you think that an opportunity of a good novel is wasted because the story is told from Gopal's perspective? Can it be better if narrated from Raghav or Aarti's perspective? How would it be better if it was narrated from Raghav or Aarti's perspective?
Let's start with information of novel and author.
About Author
Chetan Bhagat is a prominent Indian author, columnist, and public speaker known for his bestselling novels that often explore contemporary social and cultural issues in India. Born on April 22, 1974, in New Delhi, Bhagat pursued his education at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He later obtained an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, further cementing his academic prowess.
After working in the finance industry for several years, Bhagat decided to pursue his passion for writing. He gained widespread recognition with his debut novel, "Five Point Someone," published in 2004. The book, which explores the pressures and challenges faced by students at the elite Indian Institutes of Technology, struck a chord with readers across India and catapulted Bhagat to literary fame.
Following the success of his first novel, Bhagat went on to write several other bestsellers, including "One Night @ the Call Center," "The 3 Mistakes of My Life," "2 States," "Revolution 2020," "Half Girlfriend," and "The Girl in Room 105." His novels typically blend elements of romance, drama, and social commentary, addressing themes such as love, friendship, ambition, societal norms, and cultural differences.
Bhagat's writing style is characterized by its simplicity and relatability, making his books accessible to a wide audience. His novels have been praised for their engaging storytelling and ability to reflect the aspirations and challenges of contemporary Indian youth.
In addition to his work as a novelist, Chetan Bhagat is also a prominent columnist and public speaker. He frequently writes columns for leading Indian newspapers and magazines, offering insights on various social, political, and cultural issues. Bhagat's outspoken views and willingness to address controversial topics have made him a polarizing figure in Indian media and public discourse.
Overall, Chetan Bhagat's contributions to Indian literature have earned him a significant place in the literary landscape of the country. His novels have not only entertained readers but also sparked important conversations about the complexities of modern Indian society.
Revolution Twenty20
"Revolution 2020" is a novel by Chetan Bhagat, published in 2011. The story is set in the backdrop of Varanasi, a city known for its cultural richness but plagued by corruption and educational malpractices. The novel revolves around three main characters - Gopal Mishra, Aarti Patel, and Raghav Kashyap - whose lives intertwine amidst the challenges posed by the corrupt system and their personal ambitions.
Key Facts of the Novel:
- Publication Year: 2011
- Setting: Varanasi, a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh
- Genre: Fiction, Romance, Drama
- Themes: Corruption, Ambition, Love, Friendship, Moral Dilemmas
- Narrative Style: First-person narrative, alternating between the perspectives of the three main characters.
- Social Commentary: The novel critiques the rampant corruption in Indian society, particularly in the fields of education and politics.
Characters:
1. Gopal Mishra: The protagonist of the story, Gopal comes from a middle-class family. He is ambitious and dreams of becoming rich through any means necessary. He starts an engineering college with the help of his friend Raghav, but gets involved in corrupt practices to ensure its success.
2. Aarti Patel: Aarti is a bright and ambitious young woman who aspires to become an air hostess. She is Gopal's love interest but is also drawn towards Raghav due to his idealism and integrity.
3. Raghav Kashyap: Raghav is an idealistic journalist who is passionate about exposing corruption and bringing about societal change. He is Gopal's childhood friend and falls in love with Aarti. Raghav's integrity and commitment to truth often put him at odds with Gopal's corrupt practices.
Summary of the novel:
"Revolution 2020" by Chetan Bhagat is a story set in the city of Varanasi, India, where corruption and ambition intertwine against the backdrop of societal challenges. The narrative revolves around three main characters: Gopal Mishra, Aarti Patel, and Raghav Kashyap.
Gopal Mishra, the protagonist, comes from a middle-class family and dreams of becoming wealthy. He starts an engineering college with the help of his childhood friend Raghav Kashyap. However, Gopal gets involved in corrupt practices to ensure the success of the college, leading to moral dilemmas and conflicts with Raghav, who is an idealistic journalist committed to exposing corruption.
Aarti Patel, a bright and ambitious young woman, is caught in the middle of the complex relationships between Gopal and Raghav. She is Gopal's love interest but is drawn towards Raghav due to his integrity and idealism. As the story progresses, Aarti finds herself torn between her feelings for both men and struggles to reconcile her personal desires with the harsh realities of the world around her.
The novel explores themes such as corruption, ambition, love, friendship, and social injustice. It depicts the challenges faced by individuals in navigating a corrupt and unjust society while trying to pursue their dreams and ideals.
As the plot unfolds, Gopal's unethical actions lead to consequences that affect not only his personal life but also the lives of those around him. Raghav's relentless pursuit of truth and justice puts him at odds with Gopal, testing their friendship and forcing them to confront their own moral values.
In the end, "Revolution 2020" offers a commentary on the complexities of contemporary Indian society, highlighting the struggle between idealism and pragmatism, integrity and corruption, and the quest for personal success amidst a flawed system.
Themes:
1. Corruption: The novel highlights the pervasive corruption in Indian society, particularly in the education system. It depicts how individuals like Gopal resort to unethical means to achieve success, and the consequences of such actions on both personal and societal levels.
2. Ambition: The characters in the novel are driven by their ambitions, whether it is Gopal's desire for wealth and success, Aarti's dream of becoming an air hostess, or Raghav's passion for journalism and social change. Their ambitions shape their actions and decisions throughout the story.
3. Love and Friendship: Love and friendship play significant roles in the lives of the characters. Gopal's love for Aarti and his friendship with Raghav are tested by the complexities of their relationships and the moral dilemmas they face.
4. Social Injustice: Through the characters' experiences, the novel exposes various forms of social injustice prevalent in Indian society, such as the exploitation of the poor and vulnerable by the powerful and corrupt.
5. Moral Dilemmas: The novel presents moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they navigate through a corrupt and unjust society. They are forced to make difficult choices that test their principles and values.
Overall, "Revolution 2020" is not just a story of love and friendship but also a social commentary on the challenges and contradictions of contemporary Indian society. It portrays the struggle between idealism and pragmatism, integrity and corruption, and the quest for personal success amidst a flawed system.
Let's began with points to ponder:-
1) Social realism of corruption in private education system.
- In "Revolution 2020," Chetan Bhagat delves into the social realism of corruption within the private education system in India, particularly focusing on the rampant malpractices prevalent in the field of higher education. The novel portrays how corruption seeps into the very fabric of the education system, exploiting the aspirations of students and perpetuating inequality.
Through the character of Gopal Mishra, who starts an engineering college with dubious intentions and gets entangled in corrupt practices to ensure its success, Bhagat sheds light on the unethical means employed by individuals to achieve wealth and status within the education sector. Gopal's actions reflect the broader systemic issues of bribery, nepotism, and manipulation that plague the private education system in India.
Moreover, Bhagat illustrates how corruption in education perpetuates social inequality by favoring the affluent and well-connected while marginalizing the underprivileged. The novel highlights how access to quality education is often determined by one's financial resources and social capital, further widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
Bhagat's portrayal of corruption in the private education system resonates with the realities of contemporary Indian education, where scandals involving fraudulent practices in admissions, examinations, and accreditation are not uncommon. Instances of colleges and universities prioritizing profits over academic integrity, and educational institutions becoming breeding grounds for corruption, are prevalent issues that continue to undermine the credibility and fairness of the education system.
Moreover, the novel's exploration of corruption in education serves as a reflection of broader societal issues such as the commodification of education, the erosion of ethical values, and the failure of regulatory mechanisms to curb malpractices. It underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure transparency, accountability, and equity in education, thereby fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Overall, Bhagat's portrayal of corruption in the private education system in "Revolution 2020" not only offers a critique of the existing societal norms but also prompts readers to reflect on the consequences of corruption on individuals and society at large. By intertwining fiction with social realism, Bhagat invites readers to confront the harsh realities of the education system while advocating for change and accountability.
Numerous movies and web series have depicted the treatment of students in private colleges, showcasing the corruption and cutthroat competition prevalent among these institutions vying to be recognized as the premier coaching centers. These portrayals often highlight the detrimental impact such practices have on students' lives.
While many are familiar with popular web series like "Kota Factory" and "Aspirants," there's another lesser-known gem that sheds light on the dynamics of privatization and the inner workings of private coaching centers. "Crash Course" (TV series), available on Amazon Prime, offers a nuanced exploration of these themes.
"Crash Course" series and privatization:-
.jpg)
"Crash Course" is a series that explores the world of coaching classes and how they function. It covers students' experiences, competition between coaching institutes, the politics involved in being the best, and how these factors impact the lives of the students who attend these classes.
"Crash Course," an Amazon Prime Video series helmed by director Vijay Maurya, has earned praise and acclaim from both viewers and critics for its relatable content and authentic depiction of the coaching institute milieu. Unlike other portrayals that often glamorize the coaching business, this series stands out by offering a grounded narrative that delves into the lives of students, teachers, and administrators within these institutions.
Directed by the talented Vijay Maurya, "Crash Course" artfully explores the harsh realities and challenges faced by individuals navigating the competitive world of coaching institutes. Through its compelling storytelling and nuanced characters, the series provides a candid look at the pressures, aspirations, and sacrifices inherent in the pursuit of academic success.
"Crash Course" goes beyond surface-level depictions to present a nuanced perspective on the complexities of the education system. By delving into the lives of its characters, the series offers insight into the personal struggles and moral dilemmas faced by those involved in the coaching ecosystem.
With its honest portrayal and insightful commentary, "Crash Course" has sparked meaningful conversations about the education system and the role of coaching institutes in shaping students' futures. It serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges inherent in the pursuit of academic excellence and the importance of addressing systemic issues within the education sector.
From poster as well we can see that how one director who is owner of private coaching is trying to play with students who are mere puppets of that private coaching institute.
Here is a tailer of this series:-
Here is the scene we were discussing, illustrating the heart-wrenching tale of a remarkably gifted academic student who tragically took her own life. The immense pressure exerted by both her parents and the proprietors of coaching centers weighed heavily upon her. Ultimately, it was the intense rivalry between two private institutes that served as the catalyst for her untimely demise.
Crash Course offers an interesting insight into the cutthroat competition between two major coaching institutes and the impact it has on students' lives.
There are several articles and reviews on this series:-
2) Contemporary relevance of Raghav's journalism [The YouTuber / social media journalism in today's India].
In "Revolution 2020," Raghav Kashyap serves as a symbol of traditional journalism, driven by integrity, truth-seeking, and a commitment to social justice. His character embodies the ideals of ethical journalism, where the primary focus is on uncovering corruption, holding those in power accountable, and advocating for positive societal change.
In today's India, the landscape of journalism has evolved significantly with the rise of digital platforms, social media, and citizen journalism. The emergence of YouTubers and social media influencers as key players in shaping public discourse has added a new dimension to the media ecosystem. Here's how Raghav's journalism in "Revolution 2020" relates to contemporary trends:
There are several Youtuber who were Journalist at some news channel and for some reason they have lost their jobs. Here are some list of that youtuber journalist and their channels.
- Ravish Kumar
- Anubha Bhonsle
- Abhisar Sharma
- Faye D'souza
- Punya Prasun Bajpai
- Aakash Banarjee
- Shyam Meera Singh
1. Ravish Kumar:-
- On November 30, 2022, Ravish Kumar, one of India’s most prominent journalists, carefully selected a navy-blue suit for what would mark a pivotal moment in his career. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh in northern India, Kumar had dedicated 27 years to cable news channel NDTV, rising to the position of senior executive editor and hosting several flagship shows, earning widespread recognition as a household name. However, amidst personal challenges, including his elderly mother's illness in Bihar and relentless death threats from supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi due to his political coverage, Kumar faced another daunting hurdle: NDTV's impending hostile takeover by the family of an influential oligarch with close ties to the prime minister. In response, Kumar embarked on a new chapter, launching his own YouTube channel.
2. Anubha Bhonsle:-
.jpg)
- Anubha Bhonsle's journalism journey has undergone a significant shift. Previously serving as the executive editor of CNN-News18, formerly known as CNN-IBN, she traversed the globe reporting on pivotal events ranging from elections to earthquakes. Her passion lay in conducting thorough investigations on challenging subjects, delving into topics such as upcoming elections and the latest Supreme Court rulings. However, she chose to resign from her position in 2017. Presently, she operates her own YouTube channel and Instagram page under the name Newsworthy, where she continues to engage with her audience and share impactful stories.
3. Abhisar Sharma:-
ABP anchor Abhisar Sharma found himself at odds with Prime Minister Modi's policies on public safety during a live television broadcast, resulting in his immediate removal from the airwaves. He later revealed feeling pressured to resign. Undeterred, Sharma turned to YouTube as a platform to continue airing his commentary. However, he faced a new wave of challenges as pro-Modi trolls followed him online. Despite some of his videos garnering millions of views, Sharma encountered obstacles when YouTube received numerous complaints about his content, leading to the site's algorithm blocking potential advertising revenue.
4. Faye D'Souza:-
.jpg)
Faye D'Souza, who previously served as the Editor at ET Now, joined the Times Group in October 2008 after a four-year stint at CNBC-TV18. In 2017, she expressed her enthusiasm for Mirror Now, describing it as a passion project driven by her and MD/CEO MK Anand's belief in delivering news centered around people's interests. Now, Faye D'Souza has embarked on a new venture, teaming up with the short video content platform FireWork. Together, they have launched a channel called "Facts First with Faye," with a mission to provide viewers with comprehensive coverage of global events, presenting news in a manner that adheres to journalistic standards. She also launched her own application "Beatroot".
5. Punya Prasun Bajpai:-
Bajpai, the host of the prime-time show "Masterstroke" on ABP News, faced government criticism in July 2018 after the channel aired a story regarding a video interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and beneficiaries of government programs on June 20, 2018. During the show, a participant from Chhattisgarh, Chandramani Kaushik, claimed that her income had doubled after switching from cultivating paddy to growing custard apples. However, two weeks later, reports from ABP News's "Masterstroke" alleged that she had been coached by BJP officials to make false claims. Subsequently, the channel experienced disruptions in its satellite link during Bajpai's show. In an article penned by Bajpai for The Wire, he stated that several advertisers, including Patanjali, withdrew their advertisements from the channel under pressure. Ultimately, this led to Bajpai's resignation from the channel.
6. Akash Banerjee:-
- Akash Banerjee, also known as आकाश बनर्जी, is an Indian YouTuber, journalist, radio jockey, and political satirist. He has gained recognition for his YouTube channel "The Deshbhakt," which features a satirical show addressing social, political, and environmental issues, alongside his caricature persona "Bhakt Banerjee." As of 2023, he boasts over 3 million regular viewers, with The Washington Post dubbing Deshbhakt as "one of the biggest YouTube channels in India.
7. Shyam Meera Singh:-
- Shyam Meera Singh, an Indian journalist and YouTuber, has established a notable presence in the media landscape. Born on July 5, 1995, in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Singh has made considerable contributions to journalism and online content creation. Throughout his career, he has been associated with esteemed media outlets such as Aaj Tak, Economic Times Hindi, and NewsClick. Singh's commitment to journalism and active reporting on various issues has garnered him a substantial following on social media platforms. His journey in journalism and online media has left a lasting impression, making him a significant voice in discussions surrounding Indian media and social issues.
These journalists have encountered the harsh realities of power politics, leading them to leave their jobs due to their commitment to ethical journalism. They bravely raised their voices against those in positions of authority, facing repercussions for their principled stance. Just like the character Raghav in the novel, who, as a journalist, found himself displaced from his job due to political pressures, they too have experienced the consequences of challenging the status quo.
Here are some articles on journalism in today's time:-
3) Do you think that an opportunity of a good novel is wasted because the story is told from Gopal's perspective? Can it be better if narrated from Raghav or Aarti's perspective? How would it be better if it was narrated from Raghav or Aarti's perspective?
The choice of narrative perspective plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's understanding and interpretation of a story. While "Revolution 2020" is predominantly told from Gopal's perspective, exploring the narrative from Raghav or Aarti's viewpoint could indeed offer unique insights and enrich the storytelling experience.
1. Raghav's Perspective:
Narrating the story from Raghav's perspective could provide a deeper exploration of the socio-political landscape and his journalistic endeavors. As an idealistic journalist committed to exposing corruption, Raghav's perspective would offer a critical lens through which to examine the systemic issues plaguing Indian society. Readers would gain insight into Raghav's motivations, struggles, and ethical dilemmas as he navigates the murky waters of investigative journalism. Additionally, Raghav's perspective could shed light on his complex relationship with Gopal and Aarti, offering a nuanced portrayal of friendship, betrayal, and moral integrity.
2. Aarti's Perspective:
Aarti's perspective would offer a fresh and intimate exploration of her dreams, aspirations, and struggles. As a young woman navigating societal expectations and personal ambitions, Aarti's viewpoint could provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by women in Indian society. Readers would gain a deeper understanding of Aarti's journey, from her aspirations of becoming an air hostess to her complex romantic entanglements with Gopal and Raghav. Aarti's perspective could also highlight the pressures of societal norms, gender dynamics, and familial expectations, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
While telling the story from Gopal's perspective offers a specific lens through which to explore themes of ambition, corruption, and moral compromise, shifting the narrative focus to Raghav or Aarti could offer alternative perspectives and enhance the richness of the storytelling. Each character brings their own unique experiences, motivations, and moral compass to the narrative, and exploring the story through their eyes would undoubtedly provide a more comprehensive and multifaceted portrayal of the novel's themes and conflicts. Ultimately, whether the novel would be "better" narrated from Raghav or Aarti's perspective is subjective and depends on the reader's preferences and the thematic emphasis desired by the author.
References:-
Bhagat, Chetan. Revolution 2020: cinta, korupsi, ambisi. Bentan Pustaka, 2013. Accessed 11 March 2024.
Faleiro, Sonia, et al. “YouTube is the last bastion of unbiased journalism in India.” Rest of World, 19 December 2023, https://restofworld.org/2023/india-youtube-journalism/. Accessed 10 March 2024.
Gahlot, Deepa. “'Crash Course' review: More of the same about Kota's competitive coaching class culture.” Scroll.in, 5 August 2022, https://scroll.in/reel/1029780/crash-course-review-more-of-the-same-about-kotas-competitive-coaching-class-culture. Accessed 10 March 2024.
“Here's how Crash Course has revealed the real story behind the functioning of coaching universe.” Firstpost, 8 August 2022, https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/bollywood/heres-how-crash-course-has-revealed-the-real-story-behind-the-functioning-of-coaching-universe-11027971.html. Accessed 10 March 2024.
Kaushal, Ruchi. “Crash Course review: Annu Kapoor's show is no Kota Factory but worth a watch.” Hindustan Times, 8 August 2022, https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/web-series/crash-course-review-annu-kapoor-s-show-is-no-kota-factory-but-worth-a-watch-101659942556453.html. Accessed 10 March 2024.
Khurana, Archika. “Crash Course Season 1 Review: Another engaging drama depicting Kota's fierce competition.” timesofindia, 7 August 2022, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/web-series/reviews/hindi/crash-course/season-1/seasonreview/93278001.cms. Accessed 10 March 2024.
“Under Modi, India's Press Is Not So Free Anymore (Published 2020).” The New York Times, 6 May 2020, https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/02/world/asia/modi-india-press-media.html. Accessed 10 March 2024.
Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy blog post. Your engagement and attention are greatly appreciated.
Words- 3798
Images- 11
Videos- 03
No comments:
Post a Comment