Daniyal Mueenuddin is a Pakistani-American author and writer best known for

his works of fiction. He was born in Los Angeles, California, but spent much of his life in

Pakistan. Mueenuddin's writing is deeply influenced by his multicultural background and

explores the complexities of life in rural Pakistan.

One of his most acclaimed works is the short story collection "In Other Rooms, Other

Wonders," published in 2009. His writing often delves into the complexities of Pakistani

society, exploring themes of power, class dynamics, and cultural complexities while also

addressing universal themes of love, ambition, and social class. Mueenuddin's works

are celebrated for their rich prose and vivid portrayals of characters navigating the

intersections of tradition, modernity, and the human condition in contemporary Pakistan.

Nawabdin Electrician is a short story written by Daniyal Mueenuddin. Mueenuddin is

considered to be one of the most prominent Pakistani American authors who got fame

with his collection of short stories In Other Rooms Other Wonders. Nawabdin Electrician

is a short story that presents Pakistani culture and subtly talks about the corruption in

society and how the people react to a different class of people differently.

Nawabdin is the name of the electrician in a small village of Multan and knows a

technique of cheating the electric company by slowing down the revolutions of its

meters. He gets appreciation for this act and the people of his village call him their

savior. It is very common in Pakistani society where people try to cheat organizations

just for their benefit. People of three different classes have been shown in the story. K.

K. Harooni, the landowner, who is a wealthy man and owns a big area of fertile land,

belongs to an upper-class family. The next is Nawabdin, who belongs to a lower-middle-

class family and works for Mr. Harooni and the last is the impoverished thief who is

living hand to mouth that forces him to snatch and rob.

When Nawabdin begs his boss Mr. Harooni for a motorcycle, he grants him money to

buy it. The attitude of Mr. Harooni shows that he knows how people exaggerate their

sufferings to get sympathy. In Pakistan, people are honored according to their financial

stature.

Mueenuddin expresses that the motorcycle increases Nawabdin's social status in his

area. He puts on some weight and now he is getting more respect and being called

uncle. After earning a motorcycle he has come to the list of honorable citizens of his

area. Now people take his suggestions in their matters and his opinions on world affairs,

about which he knows nothing, are highly been praised. This shows how just a little

financial stability upgrades one's importance in Pakistani culture.

Nawabdin has thirteen children and this large number of children is common in rural

areas of Pakistan. He has just one son and twelve burdens because parents have to

pay dowry at their weddings and twelve daughters mean twelve times dowry. That is the

force that leads Nawabdin to do meter corruption and drives him to plead for a

motorcycle. He is hard-working like most Pakistani men, who earn money to feed their

families and are responsible for every need. The raw sugar feast also depicts the

Pakistani culture where people take raw sugar after dinner especially in winter.

Nwabdin’s family feels pleased having this feast.

The thief in the play belongs to a lower class and is a drunken man. When he attacks

Nawabdin few people come to escape him, they also attack the thief. As a result,
Nawabdin and the thief both get injured. In the hospital, no sympathy is shown to the

thief, because he is supposed to be evil, a sinister and that is why no medical treatment

is given to him. Even the doctor, the savior, ignores him because he has committed a

crime and as a consequence, the poor thief dies. Here we see how in Pakistan people

are discriminated against due to their social status.

The village, the cycles, the number of children, the patriarchal structure, raw sugar

feast, and the bonding of the family all are the true depiction of Pakistani culture and

society and present the economic and social disparities of middle and lower-middle-

class Pakistanis.

Quality The title which Daniyal Mueenuddin has chosen for the story ‘Nawabdin

Electrician’ is symbolic in itself. We see that this words i.e. Nawab is used for the people

of aristocratic class, for the ones who have authority. When we analyze this title through

the story it is seen that the electrician didn’t belong to the upper class infact electricians

never use ‘Nawab’ with themselves. We see a theme of ‘Appearance vs. Reality’ at this

point. Title is a perfect example of an oxymoron. It reflects the hidden, inside desires of

the electrician that he wanted to have respect and high status in society.

To fulfill his (Nawab) utmost desire of having a son he had twelve daughters one after

the other. We can relate it to the concept of id. He didn’t bother whether he could afford

the living of such big family or not. He just kept going until he finally had that one odd

piece. After having twelve daughters he seemed very much satisfied apparently but

within his unconscious he knew that he had to feed them, earn for them and arrange
their dowries. All his superhuman efforts in his work reflect that he knew the reality but

was still in a state of denial. …show more content…

To remove this tag from himself he begged his master (Harouni) for a motorcycle. This

part of the story tells us that he had the fear of low self esteem. It clearly shows us the

conflict between his inner and outer self. It was his desire to have a motorcycle so that

he can upgrade and accelerate his status in society. We can interpret it easily that

society and economy plays a vital role in telling us about our status and roles. By having

a motorcycle people started calling him ‘Uncle’ started asking his opinions on various

affairs. It tells us that society is the one which makes our status.

Absolutely! "Nawabdin Electrician" by Daniyal Mueenuddin revolves around several

themes:

1. **Social Hierarchy and Class Divide:** The story highlights the societal hierarchy in

Pakistan, focusing on the struggles of Nawabdin, an electrician, belonging to a lower

socioeconomic class.

2. **Struggle and Dignity:** Nawabdin's determination to maintain his dignity while

facing numerous challenges reflects the theme of resilience and the struggle to uphold

one's honor in difficult circumstances.

3. **Traditional Values vs. Modernization:** The clash between traditional values and

the modern world is depicted through Nawabdin's life, as he grapples with changes

brought by modernization while holding on to his traditional beliefs and customs.

**Dignity of Labor:** Despite being an electrician, Nawabdin takes immense pride in his

work and exhibits the dignity of labor. His dedication and commitment to his job, no

matter how menial it may seem, showcase the value he places on hard work and the

satisfaction derived from it.

**Struggle for Survival:** Nawabdin’s story reflects the struggle for survival in a society

where economic opportunities are limited for people in his position. He navigates

challenges and finds ways to make ends meet, portraying the resilience and adaptability

required to survive.

**Cultural Realities:** The story provides a glimpse into the cultural fabric of rural

Pakistan, portraying the customs, traditions, and the everyday life of the people in that

setting.

**Human Connections:** The interactions Nawabdin has with the people around him,

whether it's his family, employers, or strangers, highlight the importance of human

connections and relationships, showing the impact these connections have on his life.

The story intertwines these themes, offering a poignant commentary on societal

structures, the human experience, and the complexities of navigating life in a stratified

society.

In "Nawabdin Electrician," Daniyal Mueenuddin uses several symbols that resonate with

deeper meanings in the story: 1. **The Motorcycle:** Nawab, the protagonist, takes

immense pride in his motorcycle. It symbolizes his independence, status, and identity.

The motorcycle also serves as a means of escape from the mundane and a source of

empowerment for Nawab.

2. **Electricity and Power:** Nawab's profession as an electrician isn’t just a job; it's a

symbol of his ability to control and manipulate power. This power isn't just about

electricity but reflects his position in his community, giving him a sense of authority and

respect.

3. **The Dog:** Nawab’s relationship with his dog is a symbolic reflection of loyalty,

companionship, and the importance of connection in a somewhat isolated life. The dog

becomes a companion in his otherwise solitary routine, symbolizing the need for a

friend or confidant.

4. **The Handgun:** The gun symbolizes Nawab's sense of security and control. It

represents a shift in his life, giving him a sense of power and protection in a way that his

work tools or his motorcycle cannot.

These symbols, when interwoven into the narrative, add depth to Nawab's character

and the themes of independence, power, and companionship that the story explores.

Analysis; "Nawabdin Electrician" is a compelling short story by Daniyal Mueenuddin that

encapsulates the essence of rural Pakistan through the lens of its titular character,

Nawabdin. The story not only delves into the life of an electrician but also explores the

broader themes of social hierarchy, resilience, and the human condition.

Mueenuddin’s portrayal of Nawabdin is layered and intricate. Nawabdin is not just an

electrician; he represents the struggles and aspirations of a common man in a complex

society. His dedication to his work, resourcefulness, and the pride he takes in his skills

are vividly depicted. The story sheds light on his daily challenges, showcasing his ability

to navigate the societal intricacies while maintaining his dignity and humor.
The narrative skillfully captures the socioeconomic disparities prevalent in Pakistan.

Nawabdin’s position as a skilled worker, often overlooked and undervalued by the more

affluent classes, reflects the broader issues of class divide and the challenges faced by

those on the lower rungs of society. Mueenuddin masterfully intertwines Nawabdin's

personal struggles with the larger societal backdrop, offering a poignant commentary on

the disparities in a rapidly changing Pakistan.

The story is not merely a portrait of one man; it’s a window into a larger cultural

landscape. Mueenuddin’s rich storytelling and vivid descriptions allow readers to

immerse themselves in Nawabdin's world, feeling the heat, the dust, and the struggles

he faces.

Overall, "Nawabdin Electrician" is a beautifully crafted narrative that transcends the

story of a mere electrician. It’s a reflection on the complexities of society, the resilience

of individuals, and the broader dynamics that shape human existence. Mueenuddin’s

storytelling prowess elevates the everyday life of Nawabdin into a captivating and

thought-provoking piece of literature.

Taufiq Rafat was a Pakistani poet and translator, recognized for his significant

contributions to Urdu literature. He was born in 1927 and passed away in 1998. Rafat's

poetry often delved into themes of love, loss, and the human experience, portraying a

unique blend of modernism and traditional Urdu poetic elements. His work is known for

its depth, vivid imagery, and a rich exploration of emotions. Rafat was not only a poet

but also an accomplished translator, known for translating classical Urdu poetry into

English, introducing the beauty of Urdu literature to a wider audience.

Wedding in the Flood by Taufiq Rafat is a representative poem. it represents the

culture, tradition, mindset, and preferences of the residents of rural Punjab.

Wedding in the Flood by Taufiq Rafat is a poem based on a cultural aspect of Pakistani

rural life. Rafat receives high acclaim for depicting indigenous life and characters in his

poetry. The poem is a depiction of a marriage ceremony that takes place on a rainy day.

Rafat describes not only the scene of the marriage but also the thoughts of different

characters. The characters he depicts in this poem are stereotypes that we may

encounter in our everyday life.

In 1927 was born Taufiq Rafat, a true representative of Pakistani culture and tradition in

English poetry.Rafat gave Pakistani poetry in English new dimensions. Rafat wrote

about life in his immediate surroundings. Therefore, his poems carry a realistic

outlook.One thing Rafat is most acknowledged for is his use of local speech style in his

English poetry. It inspired and encouraged Pakistani writers in the English language to

use localized expressions in their works. Oxford University Press published three

collections of Pakistani poetry in English during the 1960s and 1970s. Their titles were:

First Voices (1964), Pieces of Eight (1970), and Wordfall (1976). All three of them had

Rafat’s poems. He also translated Punjabi poems of the great Sufi poet, Bullah Shah.

He has depicted not only the rural landscape and tradition but also unfolded the mindset

of the society.

Themes; Wedding in the Flood by Taufiq Rafat is a beautiful depiction of the lifestyle in

the rural Punjab of Pakistan. Therefore, the themes of the poem also closely relate to

the culture and traditions of this lifestyle.

Arrange Marriage

In rural Punjab, generally, parents arrange the marriage of their children. While making

the match, they keep the caste and financial status of the family under consideration.

Most of the time, neither the boy nor the girl knows anything about each other. They

have to observe ‘purdah’ (veil) strictly. The poet symbolically presents the outcome of

arranged marriage in the modern world.

Status of Women

Wedding in the Flood questions the place of women in society, particularly, after

marriage. The apprehensions of the bride’s mother in the opening lines of the poem are

not baseless. Women in Pakistan face many problems regarding their adjustment to

marital life. A bride remains an outsider in the family. Her happiness in married life

depends on certain factors. The fortune she brings as dowry is one while her physical

beauty is another. In addition to these, she has to submit to the will of her in-laws

silently. Even superstitions are attached to the bride. The heavy rain on the wedding

day is attributed to her habit of pot-licking.

Fate

Fate is one of the most important themes of Taufiq Rafat’s poetry. Wedding in the Flood

also covers this theme. The procession that comes to celebrate a marriage meets a

tragic end. Rafat tells that it takes very little for good fortune to turn into misfortune.

Materialistic Approach
Taufiq Rafat presents deep thoughts of the characters he delineates in this poem. It is

through their thoughts that Rafat unfolds their real selves that are quite different from

their appearances. First of all, Rafat exposes the character of the bridegroom. He is

going to have the most precious relationship in the world. But he is putting it to

conditions. He feels grieved at the scarcity of the dowry. However, he is ready to let this

issue go if the bride is beautiful. It shows his selfishness. His father is no less selfish. He

should welcome his daughter-in-law into the family like a daughter. He, however,

grumbles at the cot, the looking glass, and the tin trunk she brings in dowry. Both the

father and the son also consider the bride a pot-licking wench. Rafat’s description

shows how materialism has brought about hollowness in respectable relations.

"Taufiq Rafat's poem 'Wedding in the Flood' paints a vivid picture of a wedding amidst a

flood in Pakistan, capturing the contrast between celebration and disaster. The poem's

backdrop of a flood symbolizes the harsh realities that often accompany life in Pakistan.

Despite the adversity, the wedding festivities continue, reflecting the resilience and

determination of the people to find joy even in challenging times.

The poem reflects Pakistani culture by highlighting the importance of traditions and

celebrations, even in the face of hardships. Weddings hold immense significance in

Pakistani society, being elaborate events that bring together families and communities.

In the midst of chaos, the poem showcases the resilience and adaptability ingrained in

the culture, where people find ways to celebrate and find happiness, no matter the

circumstances.
The flood serves as a metaphor for the trials and tribulations faced by the people of

Pakistan. It represents the resilience of the Pakistani spirit, where individuals navigate

through difficult situations, holding onto their cultural traditions and values. The poem

subtly critiques the harsh realities that coexist with these cultural celebrations,

emphasizing the bittersweet nature of life in the region.

Rafat's portrayal of the wedding during a flood not only encapsulates the cultural

significance of celebrations but also subtly addresses the societal norms that persist

despite adversity. It underlines the strength and unity of the community, showcasing

how people come together to support one another during challenging times, which is a

prominent aspect of Pakistani culture.

Overall, 'Wedding in the Flood' intertwines the themes of celebration, adversity, and the

resilience of Pakistani culture, shedding light on the strength and unity that persists

even in the face of calamity."

"Ice Candy Man" is a character from Bapsi Sidhwa's novel "Ice Candy Man," which was

also adapted into the film "1947: Earth." The story is set in the backdrop of the Partition

of India in 1947. The character of Ice Candy Man is complex and multi-layered.

**Ice Candy Man (Ayah’s Lover):**

- **Charming and Charismatic:** He's initially portrayed as charming and charismatic,

which draws Ayah’s attention and affection.

Manipulative:** He is, however, deeply manipulative and uses his charm to exploit

situations and people for his own gain.

- **Complex Identity:** He's a complex character, embodying various identities due to

his mixed heritage—Parsi and Muslim, which reflects the larger societal and political

complexities during the Partition.

- **Symbolism:** He's a symbol of the larger political and social turmoil during the

partition, embodying the blurred lines of identity, allegiances, and the chaotic nature of

the time.

Throughout the narrative, Ice Candy Man's character symbolizes the complexities of the

era and reflects the turbulence, manipulations, and multi-layered identities prevalent

during the Partition of India. His actions and decisions showcase the human

complexities and the impact of societal and political changes on individuals.

The novel and its characters present a microcosm of the larger picture of the partition,

using Ice Candy Man as a vehicle to portray the ambiguity and struggles of that time.

"Ice Candy Man" by Bapsi Sidhwa is a richly layered novel set during the partition of

India in 1947. The characters in the book represent a diverse array of perspectives and

experiences. Here are some key characters and their analyses:

**Lenny (Lenny Sethna)**: As the young Parsi girl, Lenny serves as the narrator. Her

perspective provides a childlike innocence that contrasts with the brutality and

complexity of the partition. She symbolizes the innocent eye witnessing the chaos,

confusion, and tragedy of that time. Her physical disability, polio, adds another layer of

vulnerability and innocence to her character.

**Ayah (Shanta)**: Lenny's beloved Ayah is an enigmatic character. She embodies a

mix of motherly love, strength, and vulnerability. Her story represents the plight of

women during the partition and the dangers they faced.

**Ice Candy Man (Masseur)**: The character is intriguing and controversial. His role is

multi-faceted, embodying both charm and danger. He represents the blurred lines of

good and evil during times of upheaval. His manipulative nature and shifting allegiances

reflect the chaos and uncertainty of the partition.

**Hassan**: He's a Muslim man who is deeply in love with Ayah. His character

represents the tragedy of unrequited love and the societal barriers imposed by religion

and the partition.

**Lenny's Parents (Rustom and Tehmina Sethna)**: Lenny's parents symbolize the

liberal, educated class of society. Their personalities reflect the turmoil and confusion

that the partition brought upon the privileged class.

Each character in "Ice Candy Man" represents a different facet of the partition—be it its

violence, the loss of innocence, the impact on relationships, or the societal and cultural

changes. Sidhwa intricately weaves their stories together to depict the human cost of

such political upheaval, portraying the diversity of experiences during a harrowing

period in history.

"Ice Candy Man" by Bapsi Sidhwa explores various complex themes against the

backdrop of the partition of India in 1947. Some of the prominent themes in the book

include:
**Partition and its Aftermath:** The novel delves into the devastating impact of the

partition of India, depicting the communal tensions, violence, and the disruption of lives

caused by the political division.

**Identity and Belonging:** It explores the struggle of individuals in finding their identity

and a sense of belonging amidst the chaos and division. Characters are often torn

between multiple identities, cultures, and allegiances.

**Gender and Power:** The narrative reflects the various power dynamics, especially

concerning gender. It portrays the challenges, vulnerabilities, and strengths of women in

a society deeply affected by cultural norms and political upheaval.

**Religious and Cultural Conflict:** The novel sheds light on the religious and cultural

conflicts that arose during the partition, illustrating the tensions between different

religious groups and the subsequent impact on communities and personal relationships.

**Innocence and Loss:** The story captures the loss of innocence experienced by

individuals, especially children, amidst the violent and chaotic events. It highlights the

trauma and emotional toll that such upheavals take on young minds.

**Betrayal and Loyalty:** The novel portrays the complexities of loyalty and betrayal,

showcasing how relationships, friendships, and alliances are tested and sometimes

shattered during times of political turmoil.

Sidhwa's storytelling weaves these themes together, offering a multifaceted view of the

human experience during a tumultuous period in history.

"Ice Candy Man" by Bapsi Sidhwa is a novel set against the backdrop of the Partition of

India in 1947. The story is rich in symbolism, reflecting the complex societal and political

changes of that time. Here are a few significant symbols from the novel:

1. **Ice Candy Man:** He symbolizes the chaos and brutality of the partition. His

character represents the underbelly of society, indulging in opportunism and

manipulation during this tumultuous time.

2. **Lenny's Polio:** Lenny, the young protagonist, having contracted polio, symbolizes

vulnerability and the idea of being handicapped or affected by the communal tensions

and violence around her. Her disability becomes a metaphor for the brokenness and the

trauma of the nation.

3. **Ayah (Shanta):** The character of Ayah, who is initially a caretaker for Lenny,

represents the plight of women in a patriarchal society. Her abduction and subsequent

religious conversion highlight the vulnerability of women during the partition.

4. **Partition:** The very event of the Partition itself is a powerful symbol in the novel,

signifying the disintegration of a nation, the birth of two new countries, and the mass

upheaval, violence, and displacement that ensued.

5. **Fire:** Fire is a recurring motif, symbolizing destruction, purification, and the

transforming power of the partition on society, relationships, and the lives of the

characters.

6. **Religious Symbols:** The religious symbols, such as temples, mosques, and

gurdwaras, represent the communal and religious tensions that erupted during the
 partition. These places, once symbols of peace and unity, become sites of violence and

division.

These symbols collectively weave a rich tapestry that mirrors the social, political, and

emotional landscape of India during the partition. They add depth to the narrative,

offering insight into the multifaceted impacts of such a significant historical event.

1. Partition and its Impact: "The earth is splitting, blood is flowing, homes are burning,
and yet they go on saying there is no partition."
2. Identity and Belonging: "My body was Muslim, my soul was Hindu, and I didn't know
where I belonged."
3. Innocence and Loss: "Childhood’s days are not meant to last, they are like the ice
candies we licked with such urgency."
4. Power Dynamics and Conflict: "The powerful crush the weak like sugar cane is crushed
in the mills."
5. Women’s Experiences and Agency: "Women have to carve their own destiny with the
same hands they use to make chapattis."
Poverty and Class Divide: "Poverty was a chain; it shackled a man and his family for
life."
Dignity of Labor: "He was proud of his skill. He was good at his job, and it was a job
that mattered."
Struggle and Resilience: "He was a man of many trades, switching to whichever one
would feed his family that week."
Cultural Traditions: "The weight of tradition was heavy, and he bore it without
complaint."
Conflict between Modernity and Tradition: "The city’s electric lights were a
challenge to the simplicity of his life in the village."
Family and Responsibilities: "He worked not for himself, but for his family, striving
to give them a better life."

These quotes reflect the essence of the themes present in "Nawabdin Electrician" by
Mueenuddin.
1. Identity and Belonging "Who we are is where we are."
2. Love and Relationships "Love is not comfort. It is to challenge, to fight, to rebel."
3. Loss and Grief "Grief is a language without words."
4. Historical Impact on Individuals "History is not something we read about. It's
something we live through."
Love and Resilience: "Amidst the deluge, love stood unyielding."

Adversity and Unity: "In the flood's embrace, unity found its truest form."

Hope and Endurance: "The torrent couldn't extinguish the flame of hope
within their hearts."

Community and Support: "Neighbors became anchors in the storm of the

wedding flood."

Celebration and Unconventionality: "In chaos, they found the beauty of

an unconventional celebration."