Universalizing Swami's Learning through Empirical Experiences: A Critical Analysis of Swami and Friends

<p>Childhood is considered the most blissful period of life where every individual wishes to gratify one's fancies without worrying about the world. Children seek instant gratification whatever they feel or desire. Rational parents either approve or disapprove of their children’s fancies as per their experiences in the material world. R.K. Narayan, in his Children maestro, Swami and Friends projects the children characters chasing their dreams in the fictional setting of Malgudi. This research paper explores how children easily get attracted to external temptations and how their adamant, introverted or secretive nature like Swami traps them into a world of endless miseries. The paper mainly highlights the need for parents' open dialogue with their wards that can help in eliminating the children's fear instead of disciplinary rods imposed on them, so that the children can share their worries without hesitation. If it does not happen, the naive children will learn by exposing themselves to this world following their fancies while risking their lives like Swami, the novel's protagonist. The paper also showcases the innocent hearts of children and the true value of friendship through the character of Swami. Moreover, the book becomes an ageless and deathless source of inspiration while universalizing the wisdom and moral values drawn from the adventures of Swami. </p>