Ajay Navaria, a Hindi professor at Jamia Millia Islamia, delves into the complexities of caste dynamics and the challenges faced by the emerging middle class among Dalits in urban India through his novel “Udhar ke Log.”

Titled “Worlds within Worlds” in its English translation by Nita Kumar, published by Niyogi Books under its Thornbird imprint, the novel tackles a spectrum of themes. It navigates through contemporary caste politics, scrutinizes wedding rituals, and unveils the intricacies of societal interactions among different castes.

Navaria’s characters offer diverse perspectives on caste and power dynamics, reflecting the nuances of everyday life across various socio-economic and cultural landscapes. The novel serves as a poignant exploration of identity, aspirations, and struggles within India’s evolving social fabric.

“Worlds within Worlds” emerges as a significant literary contribution, shedding light on the experiences and aspirations of the Dalit community’s burgeoning middle class amidst the complexities of urban life in India.