In “Tamas” by Bhisham Sahni, several characters undergo surprising transformations or reveal unexpected facets of their personalities as the narrative unfolds.
One such character is Nathu, a young boy from a lower caste who unwittingly becomes embroiled in the communal tensions and violence that erupt in the aftermath of Partition.
Initially, Nathu is portrayed as a simple and innocent child, unaware of the complexities of communal politics. However, as the story progresses, Nathu’s actions and decisions take on greater significance, revealing his resilience and capacity for survival in the face of adversity.
One of the most surprising moments involving Nathu occurs when he is manipulated by individuals with vested interests to commit a heinous act of violence against a Sikh man. This event marks a turning point in Nathu’s character, as he grapples with feelings of guilt and remorse for his actions.
Another character who undergoes a surprising transformation is Pandit Karmakar, a respected Hindu priest initially depicted as a pillar of the community. However, as tensions escalate and communal violence erupts, Pandit Karmakar’s prejudices and biases come to the fore, leading him to make morally questionable decisions in the name of protecting his own interests and those of his community.
These unexpected developments in the characters of Nathu and Pandit Karmakar serve to highlight the complexities of human nature and the ways in which individuals are influenced by their circumstances and surroundings. Through these characters, “Tamas” explores themes of identity, morality, and the devastating consequences of communalism and sectarian violence.