The transition from joint family system to nuclear families remains a painful memory to many in Kerala. Till 1950s households with three or four generations living together used to be the order. The inherent support system and affection enjoyed by the old and the children in these tharavads were unique. These not-so-small establishments invariably had a group of hangers-on and domestic help. These self-effacing souls were very much a part of the family.
Ettukettu Stories takes the reader to the bygone era when life in Ernakulam was as tranquil as the backwaters. T C Narayan draws vignettes from his childhood when he stayed with his grandparents in a sprawling tharavad in the town. The many individuals in his grandparents’ circle and the service providers for the family made an indelible impression on his formative years. They were simple folk whose motto was service. The spirit of loyalty and affection that marked their relationship with the family has long vanished.
The portraits and scenes depicted in the work reflect the lifestyle of a typical middle-class household 60 years ago. Krishnan, the village dhobi; Kochunnimman, the tough head constable; barber Paramu; fisheries inspector Kandappi; Sister Tapasvini— whose mission was providing shelter to forsaken women; Paapu the rickshaw puller and Velan the coconut plucker are among the many characters that engage our attention.
The all-in-all karyasthan (household supervisor) enjoyed enormous clout in large joint families. Valiya Krishnan was such a karyasthan who began his day at 5 am. A few of the jobs prevalent then have disappeared altogether. Balan the lamp lighter and Kuttan the clock winder belong to this category. Nishimura, the Japanese dentist who had a roaring practice and Koshy the physician are other memorable persons. What makes them stand out is the personal care they bestowed on every patient. There are also glimpses of the twilight years of remnant Kochi royalty.
A chapter is devoted to the temple bull Maanikkan who used to stop and search devotees for bananas. While sparing the old he tormented youngsters who teased him. The coup de grace is an elaborate account of the ceremonial Kerala sadya (feast). Every character comes alive with the accompanying illustration. Biju Cherayath has done a commendable job with his sketches.
As one who has turned to writing after retirement from the corporate world, Narayan has done well. Some readers may find the work with an evocative title as nostalgia for feudal days marked by an oppressive caste system and grinding poverty of the masses. But none can fault the author for his honest attempt to bring alive a bygone era. The contrast with present day Kochi is striking. One cannot but agree with the author that the sight of ubiquitous red flags and red banners is a constant reminder of the past in Ernakulam.
M K Chandra Bose
Ettukettu Stories.
T C Narayan
Unisun Publishing, Bangalore, 2007.
Pages 148, Rs 195.
