Indian English literature and the theme of migration

Abstract

Indian English literature has emerged as a powerful medium for articulating the complex realities of migration, displacement, identity, and cultural negotiation in a globalized world. The theme of migration occupies a central place in this literary tradition, reflecting the historical, social, economic, and political forces that compel individuals and communities to move across geographical and cultural boundaries. Indian English writers explore both internal and international migration, portraying the emotional, psychological, and cultural challenges faced by migrants as they navigate new spaces and identities. Through narratives of exile, nostalgia, alienation, assimilation, and hybridity, these writers capture the fragmented yet dynamic nature of migrant experiences. Migration in Indian English literature is not merely a physical journey but also a metaphor for transformation, self-discovery, and redefinition of belonging. This study examines the development of Indian English literature in relation to migration, highlighting how writers portray the struggles, aspirations, and evolving identities of migrants, thereby contributing to a broader understanding of transnational and diasporic consciousness.