فطرت اور مقامی ثقافت: مستنصر حسین تارڑ کے ناول بہاؤ کے تناظر میں

Nature and Local Culture: In the Context of Mustansar Hussain Tarar's Novel "Bahao"

Abstract

This article explores the intricate relationship between nature and local culture in Bahao, a celebrated Urdu novel by Mustansar Hussain Tarar. It examines the concept of nature through multiple theoretical perspectives, including an Islamic viewpoint, and defines culture in its various forms. The study delves into how Bahao vividly portrays natural landscapes and indigenous cultural elements, weaving them into the narrative’s broader themes of survival, transformation, and the deep-rooted connection between humans and their environment. The novel highlights the evolving dynamics between nature and culture, illustrating how environmental changes gradually reshape traditional ways of life. Through a rich and immersive depiction of a riverine civilization, Bahao presents a world where human existence is intricately tied to the rhythms of nature. As the natural world undergoes subtle yet profound changes, cultural identities begin to shift, leading to an inevitable transformation of social structures, traditions, and beliefs. This study critically analyzes how Bahao portrays the fragility of indigenous cultures in the face of ecological shifts. It explores how Tarar masterfully captures the suitable balance between human civilization and the surroundings, offering a poignant reflection on the enduring yet vulnerable bond between nature and cultural heritage. By shedding light on these themes, this article positions Bahao as a significant literary work that not only narrates a historical reality but also serves as a timeless commentary on the interconnectedness of culture and the physical world.