Culture, Traditions and Transformations: A Study on Kannada Novel Havan

<p>Language, tradition and culture share a deeply interconnected and symbiotic relationship. Language is not just a means of communication but also a reflection of the values, beliefs, and social norms of a particular culture. The intertwining of language and culture creates a rich tapestry of human diversity and expression, as each influence and shapes the other. The Lambani/Banjara is one of the most beautiful and colorful nomadic tribes in India. It is very rich in its traditions and cultural practices. In Karnataka, the Lambani/Banjara tribe comes under the Scheduled Caste category and speaks the state language Kannada. This community has its own language, known as 'Goarboli' or ‘Goarmati, which is oral in nature and does not have a written script. Basically, ‘Goar’ means Banjara, ‘Mati means a person, and ‘Banjara means a person.<br>The present paper examines the Kannada novel Havan (2001), written by Mallikarjun Hiremath and translated into English by S. Mohanraj. The novel discusses themes such as tradition, modernity, transformation, the importance of education, jobs, lack of facilities, cultural customs, songs, and stories on Sevalal; celebrations; food habits; exploitation of the upper caste; illicit liquor; politics; and corruption. The representation of Thanda and the settlement of Lambani are very different from what has been presented in the novel. Hence, the paper discusses certain observations made in the novel. First, it presents how modernization is a threat to the culture and how it affects the tradition and culture of the Lambani tribe. Second, this paper inquires why the present generation is drifting away from the Lambani culture. Considering these issues, the study investigates whether modernity is seen as a threat to a culture or as a sign of progress. What role do education and urbanization have in the novel? How does education, as a means of advancement, fail to protect Lambani culture?</p>