Transcultural Identity and Cultural Exchange in Ruth P. Jhabvala's Heat and Dust

Abstract

This study examines transcultural concepts in Ruth Prawer Jhabvala's novel, "Heat and Dust." Drawing upon the novel's rich narrative tapestry, which unfolds across dual timelines set in the 1920s and 1970s, this research seeks to unravel the intricate dynamics of transculturalism as a central thematic element. The study aims to concentrate on the social sides of Heat and Dust. The transcultural concepts are considered a significant theme that projects the image of India, its traditions, and modernity after independence through Jhabvala's novel Heat and Dust. The analysis examines how characters navigate the complex interplay of diverse cultures and languages, and identities by employing theoretical frameworks from cultural studies, postcolonial theory, and transcultural studies. In conclusion, the influence of English culture on Indian society has been significant and multifaceted, primarily due to the historical context of British colonisation in India. The impact is evident in various aspects of Indian culture, including language, education, law, administration, and social customs.