Forbidden Love Unveiled: Exploring Patriarchy And Caste In 'The God Of Small Things

Aayush Dogra, Jindal Global Law School

The God of Small Things. Arundhati Roy. Harper Collins. 1998

A story of patriarchy, traditions, and forbidden love, The God of Small Things is an award- winning book authored by Arundhati Roy. The story, set in two different periods, unfolds in an unchronological manner, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of Estha and Rahel, a pair of twins. Their lives are intertwined with the presence of their mother, Ammu, their grandmother Mammachi, Uncle Chacko, and their great aunt Baby Kochamma. Together, they manage Paradise Pickles & Preserves, a business located across the Meenachal River from their home. Within this complex narrative, several other significant characters emerge, such as Pappachi, Mammachi's husband, Margaret Kochamma, Chacko's former spouse, and Velutha, a man from a lower caste who holds great significance in the twins' lives. Velutha works at Paradise Pickles under Chacko, adding depth and complexity to the story.

The story is set out in Ayemenem, Kerela, and elucidates different societal themes such as caste-based discrimination, the issue of domestic violence, state-sanctioned torture, inter-caste relationships, and patriarchy.