Comparative study of 'Hard Times' and Hindi film 'Tamasha'.

 

Comparative study of 'Hard Times' and Hindi film 'Tamasha'.

A comparative study of *Hard Times* by Charles Dickens and the Hindi film *Tamasha* (2015) directed by Imtiaz Ali brings out a shared critique of societal pressures, conformity, and the suppression of individuality. Here are some key points of comparison:

1. Theme of Conformity vs. Individual Expression

    In Hard Times, Dickens critiques the rigid, utilitarian values imposed on the industrial town of Coketown. The focus on facts and figures, represented by Thomas Gradgrind, reduces individuals to mere cogs in an industrial machine, stifling their emotions and creativity.

   Tamasha portrays a similar theme through the character Ved, who suppresses his creative aspirations due to societal expectations. The film emphasizes how conforming to societal norms can lead to a loss of identity and happiness.

 2. Character Struggle and Self-Discovery

 

  In Hard Times, characters like Louisa Gradgrind and Stephen Blackpool grapple with the harsh realities of a society driven by materialism and devoid of emotional warmth. Louisa’s journey reflects her internal conflict, torn between her emotions and the practicality imposed by her upbringing.

    Ved’s journey in Tamasha mirrors Louisa’s as he embarks on a path of self-discovery, realizing that his suppressed creativity is essential for his sense of self. The film highlights his struggle between the life he’s expected to lead and the person he truly wants to be.

3. Critique of Society's Utilitarian Values

   Dickens uses Coketown as a symbol of a utilitarian society that values productivity and wealth over human well-being. His satire on industrialization points to the dehumanizing effects of a system that treats people as expendable resources.

   In Tamasha, societal expectations are similarly critiqued, particularly the pressure to pursue conventional careers over artistic or non-traditional paths. The film suggests that these expectations are a modern form of the utilitarian mindset, where one’s worth is measured by material success.

 4. Symbolism and Narrative Style

   Dickens’ descriptive, often exaggerated style in Hard Times helps highlight the bleakness of industrial life and the absurdity of a society fixated on facts. Characters are often symbolic, representing broader social issues.

    Tamasha employs a layered narrative, with shifts between Ved’s childhood fantasies, his life as an adult, and his transformation. The film’s visual storytelling, music, and symbolism (e.g., masks representing different societal roles) echo Dickens’ use of symbolism to critique societal structures.

5. Resolution and Message

   In Hard Times, Dickens hints at hope through Sissy Jupe, who represents compassion and imagination in contrast to Gradgrind's utilitarianism. However, the resolution is bittersweet, suggesting the difficulty of breaking free from societal constraints.

   Tamasha ends on a more optimistic note, with Ved breaking free from societal expectations and embracing his true self. This more positive resolution reinforces the film’s message about the importance of self-expression in modern society.

In both works, there is a strong appeal for individuality and a life that honors personal passions over societal expectations. Dickens and Ali bring attention to the personal costs of conforming to a rigid societal framework, suggesting that true fulfillment lies in embracing one’s uniqueness and inner creativity.