Breaking “Rooster Coop” as Metaphor of False Liberation: An Ambedkarite Reading of The White Tiger

Abstract

The present paper examines The White Tiger as a story of Balram Halwai, who apparently claims to have broken free from the caste and class trap as a successful entrepreneur. An Ambedkarite reading of this social mobility to entrepreneurship reveals that, despite being rich, one cannot lose caste and class orientations. Informed by Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s propositions to break free from the caste system as explored in Annihilation of Caste, the present study undertakes a close textual analysis of the conditions that make one an entrepreneur. By juxtaposing the metaphor “rooster coop” with Ambedkar’s idea of graded inequality, the study foregrounds that fear and family ties compel one to adopt any means despite the general perception of economic liberty for all. Despite being free, the caste system limits such economic exposure. In other words, one has to resort to violence openly, as Balram confesses his crime in front of readers to become an entrepreneur. Interestingly, economic prosperity can land one in modern society but not in a caste-free society. The study confirms Ambedkar’s warning that economic freedom is not enough to build a just, caste-free society. The study, thus, stresses the application of the Ambedkarite perspective to understand the nexus of caste and economic prosperity reflected in literary text.