Diasporic Sensibility In The Works Of Jhumpa Lahiri: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

This research article critically analyzes the theme of diasporic sensibility in the novels of Jhumpa Lahiri. She is an acclaimed author known for her insightful portrayal of the immigrant experience. Jhumpa explores the complexities of diaspora, identity, belonging, and displacement in her works. Through a thematic analysis of selected novels, including "The Namesake," and "Interpreter of Maladies,” this study examines how Lahiri captures the intricacies of diasporic sensibility and its impact on characters' lives. She was born to Bengali parents and is a diasporic writer of second-generation belonging to Indian American origin. She is a progeny of three countries. Lahiri was born in London, belongs to Indian roots and was brought up in Rhode Island, US. Jhumpa admits that due to shuttling continuously between Boston and Calcutta, she never felt that she belonged to one place. Drawing on postcolonial and diaspora studies frameworks, this article highlights Lahiri's portrayal of cultural hybridity, rootlessness, nostalgia, displacement, alienation, and the quest for identity among diasporic communities. The findings accentuate the significance of Lahiri's literary contributions in illuminating the multifaceted experiences of diaspora and enriching our understanding of transnational identities.