A Critical Look At Ancient Indian Architecture In India: A Wounded Civilization

Abstract

Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul is a Nobel-Award winning author of repute whose works lay a special emphasis on the problems faced by immigrants in foreign countries, who go there in the hope of a bright future and a happy life. The present paper revolves around the interest and love shown by Naipaul in the novel titled India: A Wounded Civilization, towards the ancient Indian architecture and monuments that suffered the scourge of foreign invasions. The author laments at the pathetic state of affairs of the buildings related to the great Vijayanagar empire and the fort of Boondi that belonged to the Rajput kings. Historical monuments and places of heritage are an integral part of a nation’s self-esteem and therefore, special care combined with attention must be given to them. In this novel, Naipaul describes his visit to India that he made with the purpose of exploring the rich cultural heritage of India and to closely examine his Indian identity. India: A Wounded Civilization reflects the deep observations made by V.S. Naipaul about his ancestral roots and the culture of the country of his origin.