ACHARYA INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES

(NAAC Re -Accredited with ‘A+’ Grade & Affiliated to Bengaluru City University)

Soladevanahalli, Bangalore-560107

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH
FACULTY NAME : SUSMITHA SANTHOSH

COURSE : BCA

SEMESTER : I

SUBJECT : GENERIC ENGLISH

Sacrifice: Notes
Conflict between personal desires and societal duties
The story, Sacrifice, presents a conflict between personal desires and societal duties or expectations,
focusing on the characters of Vishambhar, Anand, and Rupamani. Vishambhar faces an intense
internal struggle between his personal aspirations—completing his education and securing a stable
career—and the larger societal duty he feels toward the swaraj (self-rule) movement. His intellectual
recognition of the value of education clashes with his emotional pull toward national sacrifice.
Ultimately, Vishambhar chooses to prioritize the call of his conscience and duty to the nation, even
though it jeopardizes his academic future and personal ambitions.

Anand, on the other hand, represents a more pragmatic and self-interested view. He is focused on
personal success and achievement, symbolized by his desire to excel in his exams and secure his
future. For him, national service can be performed in safer, less sacrificial ways, like donating money
or pledging support, rather than risking one's academic career or life. He views Vishambhar’s decision
as reckless and impractical, reflecting a conflict between his personal expectations of success and
Vishambhar's sense of duty.

Rupamani serves as a bridge between these two worlds. Initially aligned with Anand's perspective,
she becomes increasingly sympathetic to Vishambhar’s ideals. Her personal desires—freedom from
societal expectations, equality, and a deeper connection with Vishambhar—begin to merge with her
sense of societal duty. By the end of the story, she too sacrifices her previous lifestyle and identity,
embracing the nationalist cause and aligning herself with Vishambhar’s ideals, thereby rejecting the
comfortable societal expectations of a wealthy, upper-class woman.

The story demonstrates how characters are torn between their personal desires—education, career,
and romance—and the duty or expectation to contribute to societal causes. Vishambhar’s struggle
reflects the immense personal cost of prioritizing duty over self-interest, while Rupamani's
transformation illustrates the powerful allure of societal duty when it becomes intertwined with
personal values.
The Power of Idealism vs. Pragmatism
The story vividly illustrates the conflict between idealism and pragmatism through the interactions
between three characters: Anand, Vishambhar, and Rupamani. This tension reflects how personal
desires and societal duties pull individuals in different directions, representing broader conflicts
between visionary goals and practical realities.

Anand’s Pragmatism:

Anand represents the pragmatist, prioritizing personal advancement and security over radical action.
He believes in the power of education and sees it as a practical means to contribute to society. His
disapproval of Vishambhar's decision to join the swaraj movement stems from concerns over personal
losses—particularly academic and financial ones. Anand views Vishambhar’s activism as reckless,
potentially derailing years of hard work for an idealistic cause. He thinks contributing money to the
cause is sufficient and believes more practical ways of supporting the nation exist.

His remark, “If I thought my blood could free the country, I’d give it today. But what will happen
with 150 men like me? Nothing but wasted lives,” reflects a pragmatic outlook that views sacrifices
like Vishambhar’s as ineffective. Anand is focused on short-term, tangible benefits, such as
completing exams and securing a future, contrasting with the idealistic pursuit of swaraj.

Vishambhar’s Idealism:

Vishambhar, on the other hand, embodies idealism. His decision to abandon his studies and risk
imprisonment for the swaraj movement is motivated by a moral force he cannot ignore. Despite the
obvious consequences for his academic future and personal well-being, Vishambhar is driven by a
higher sense of duty and honour. He is willing to sacrifice his individual success for the greater cause
of national freedom, even though he acknowledges that it may not benefit him personally. His letter to
Anand expresses this internal conflict, yet he resolves to follow his ideals, stating, “I can no longer
betray my soul. This is a matter of honour, and honour cannot be compromised.”

For Vishambhar, idealism triumphs over personal pragmatism. His belief in the greater good is
unwavering, and he sees his role in the swaraj movement as a moral imperative, even if it means
foregoing personal success.

Rupamani’s Transformation:

Rupamani's character undergoes a transformation from passive pragmatism to active idealism.

Initially, she aligns with Anand, agreeing that Vishambhar’s decision is impractical and lamenting
that she wasn’t consulted. However, as the narrative progresses, Rupamani becomes deeply moved by
Vishambhar’s courage and sense of sacrifice. Her pragmatic concerns are gradually replaced by
admiration for his idealism.

Her journey reflects an internal struggle between the practical realities of her privileged life and her
desire to support a cause that transcends personal comfort. When she attempts to convince
Vishambhar to reconsider, it is clear that her heart leans toward idealism, even if she tries to hide it
behind a practical exterior. By the end of the story, Rupamani fully embraces the idealistic cause,
rejecting material comfort and engaging with the swaraj movement herself. Her decision to join the
cause is a powerful statement against the pragmatism Anand espouses.

Clash Between Anand and Rupamani

The conflict between idealism and pragmatism is further highlighted in the heated argument between
Anand and Rupamani. Anand clings to the belief that societal hierarchies and practical limitations will
always exist, defending his position with statements like, “The dominance of education and wealth
has always existed and will always exist.” He represents a worldview that seeks gradual, structured
change within existing systems, rather than risking everything for an uncertain ideal.

Rupamani, however, has moved beyond this pragmatic view. She passionately argues for a vision of
swaraj that is not merely about replacing foreign rule with Indian rule but about creating a society free
of exploitation and inequality. For her, idealism is not a fantasy but a necessary aspiration to
challenge entrenched systems of oppression. Her rejection of pragmatism is crystallized in her
willingness to speak at public gatherings, discard luxury, and support Vishambhar's cause
wholeheartedly.

In sum, the short story explores the deep-rooted conflict between idealism and pragmatism through
the lives of its characters. Anand’s pragmatism is focused on self-preservation and realistic
contributions, while Vishambhar’s idealism propels him toward self-sacrifice for a larger cause.
Rupamani, caught in between, ultimately aligns with idealism, rejecting the comfortable life she once
knew. This conflict reflects the broader societal tensions of the time—whether to fight for immediate,
practical gains or to sacrifice everything for the promise of a better future.

Symbolism in Sacrifice
Sacrifice is rich with symbolism that deepens the understanding of the characters' internal conflicts
and the larger socio-political context. The symbols reflect key themes of duty, personal sacrifice,
transformation, and the tension between individual desires and collective action.

Vishambhar as a Symbol of Idealism and Sacrifice: Vishambhar himself symbolizes the sacrificial
hero driven by idealism. His choice to abandon his education and personal aspirations for the swaraj
movement represents the struggle between personal desires and national duty. His character embodies
the idea of sacrificing one’s own immediate gain for the greater good, reflecting the archetype of the
idealist who places collective liberation above personal well-being.

Blood: When Anand says, “If I thought my blood could free the country, I’d give it today,” blood
symbolizes both life and sacrifice. Vishambhar’s willingness to metaphorically give his blood for the
cause contrasts with Anand’s practical view that such sacrifices are futile. Blood here represents the
price of freedom, with Vishambhar choosing to pay it while Anand is hesitant.

The Letter as a Symbol of Inner Conflict: The letter Vishambhar writes to Anand symbolizes his inner
turmoil and the tension between personal desires and moral duty. His choice to express his thoughts
through a letter reflects the gravity of his decision. The letter becomes a physical manifestation of his
departure from the world of pragmatism and self-interest. It also signifies the emotional distance
growing between Vishambhar and those who prioritize personal security, like Anand.

Rupamani’s Transformation as a Symbol of Awakening: Rupamani’s character transformation from

passive observer to active participant in the swaraj movement symbolizes the awakening of
conscience and the shift from self-interest to collective action. Initially, she aligns with Anand’s
pragmatic views, reflecting societal norms and the desire for personal comfort. However, as she
becomes increasingly moved by Vishambhar’s idealism, her actions take on symbolic significance.
Rupamani’s decision to give up luxury represents the rejection of materialism and privilege in favour
of an egalitarian society. Her transformation symbolizes a shift from passive complicity in societal
hierarchies to active engagement in dismantling them. It reflects a larger theme of renunciation and
the spiritual dimension of sacrifice for the nation’s liberation. Rupamani’s decision to speak at public
gatherings symbolizes her newfound voice and agency. It is a direct rejection of the passive, domestic
role assigned to women in traditional society. Her public participation symbolizes the broader
empowerment of women and marginalized individuals in the nationalistic cause, reflecting the theme
of personal transformation for societal change.

Education as a Symbol of Social Mobility and Security: For Anand, education symbolizes social
mobility, stability, and the path to personal advancement. His desire to complete his education before
engaging in activism represents a pragmatic approach to life, where success is measured by personal
achievements within the system. In contrast, for Vishambhar, abandoning education symbolizes a
rejection of the conventional path to success in favour of a higher, more idealistic goal.

Books and Exams: These are symbols of intellectual labour and personal success. Anand’s fixation on
exams and academic progress represents his belief in structured, gradual change through established
institutions. When Vishambhar chooses to walk away from this, it symbolizes his rejection of the
notion that one must first secure personal success before contributing to a larger cause.

Swaraj as a Symbol of Freedom and Equality:

The concept of swaraj (self-rule) is itself a powerful symbol in the story. For Vishambhar and
eventually Rupamani, swaraj is not merely about political independence from colonial rule but also
about the creation of an equitable society free from exploitation and oppression. It symbolizes the
ideal of collective freedom and a vision of society that transcends personal success. The swaraj that
Rupamani envisions is symbolic of a world where hierarchies of wealth and education no longer
dominate. Her discussion with Anand, where she critiques his defence of societal exploitation, reveals
that swaraj is not just about removing foreign rule but also about reforming internal societal
structures.

Prison as a Symbol of Sacrifice and Commitment:

Vishambhar’s potential imprisonment is a potent symbol of the ultimate sacrifice for the cause. It
represents both a physical and metaphorical loss of freedom, but for Vishambhar, it is also a symbol
of commitment and honour. Imprisonment in this context becomes a badge of moral superiority, as it
shows the willingness to endure personal hardship for the sake of a larger cause.

The threat of prison symbolizes the martyrdom of those who fight for freedom. Vishambhar’s
willingness to go to prison contrasts with Anand’s fear of losing his future, symbolizing the clash
between those willing to suffer for ideals and those who seek personal safety.

Spinning wheel as a symbol:

The spinning wheel embodies self-reliance, particularly in the economic sense. During the Indian
independence movement, Mahatma Gandhi popularized the charkha as a means for Indians to break
free from their dependence on British-manufactured goods, especially textiles. By spinning their own
cloth (khadi), Indians could reclaim economic autonomy.
In the story, the spinning wheel symbolizes this idea of individual and collective self-sufficiency. It
suggests that personal sacrifices, like Vishambhar’s, are part of a larger struggle for the country’s
freedom from economic and political exploitation. When characters in the story align themselves with
the values symbolized by the spinning wheel, they are embracing not just personal self-reliance but
also a commitment to national solidarity. The charkha, therefore, becomes a unifying force, drawing
individuals together in a common cause.

The spinning wheel represents simplicity and the rejection of materialism. It is a humble, everyday
tool, yet its significance transcends its immediate function. By choosing to engage with the spinning
wheel, individuals like Vishambhar are choosing a life of simplicity and sacrifice, rejecting the
comforts and luxuries associated with material success or colonial rule. The British textile industry
had severely damaged India’s traditional economy, making Indians dependent on British goods. The
spinning wheel became a tool of protest against this exploitation. It is an act of defiance, suggesting
that small, personal acts can contribute to larger movements of resistance.

In the context of the story, the spinning wheel signifies Vishambhar’s rebellion against both external
colonial rule and the internal systems of exploitation and hierarchy. It symbolizes a quiet but powerful
form of resistance, one that doesn’t rely on violence but on consistent, everyday actions. It is a symbol
of Rupamani’s resistance and rebellion against the power structures that govern her social status and
sphere of movement. It represents her willingness to adopt a simpler life as well as her striving for
personal freedom.

Character of Anand

Anand, a central character in Munshi Premchand's Sacrifice, represents a pragmatic and materialistic
approach to life. His character stands in contrast to Vishambhar, who is driven by idealism and a
sense of duty toward the nationalist movement. Anand is portrayed as someone who values success,
personal ambition, and stability over self-sacrifice or idealistic causes. He believes in focusing on
individual growth and securing a prosperous future, rather than getting involved in political or social
causes. His attitude toward life is rooted in practicality, and he is dismissive of any actions that don’t
yield tangible benefits. Anand is deeply sceptical of movements like the Congress, which Vishambhar
gets involved in. He does not see the immediate value of sacrificing personal goals for the collective
good. This scepticism extends to his friend Vishambhar’s choice to give up his academic career for
the nationalist cause. To Anand, such decisions seem naive, and he struggles to understand the
motivations of those who put ideals above personal well-being. Anand’s actions throughout the story
often reflect a self-serving attitude. He seeks comfort and success rather than emotional or spiritual
fulfilment. His inability to connect with or support Vishambhar’s sense of duty reflects his limited
worldview. Anand is concerned more with material achievements, symbolized by his desire for
academic success and future prosperity. Anand lacks the emotional depth and empathy that Rupamani
and Vishambhar display. He views their sacrifices and convictions as misplaced or irrational, unable
to comprehend the emotional and moral dimensions of their decisions. His conversations with
Rupamani reveal his disinterest in or detachment from matters of the heart or personal sacrifice,
making him seem emotionally shallow compared to the other characters. Anand can be seen as
embodying the rational, modern individual who dismisses traditional or moral values in favour of
reason and self-interest. While Vishambhar represents the idealist ready to sacrifice for his country,
Anand stands for the educated middle class who prioritizes individual success over communal
responsibilities or nationalistic causes. His stance is reflective of a growing trend in colonial India,
where Western education often fostered a sense of detachment from the freedom struggle.
Unlike Vishambhar, who grows into a figure of self-sacrifice, Anand is disconnected from any larger
cause or purpose. His character demonstrates how colonial education and the allure of a successful
career could alienate individuals from the larger nationalistic fervour sweeping the country at the
time. Anand’s refusal to engage with Vishambhar’s sacrifice underscores his lack of patriotic feeling
or desire to participate in a collective movement for the nation’s freedom.

Anand’s interaction with Rupamani highlights his inability to value personal bonds when compared to
his personal ambitions. He initially seeks to rekindle a connection with Rupamani, but when faced
with her growing admiration for Vishambhar’s sacrifice, Anand is unable to compete. His failure to
win over Rupamani, who gradually distances herself from him, underscores his emotional limitations
and inability to truly grasp the essence of sacrifice and emotional depth. Anand’s character in
Sacrifice serves as a foil to Vishambhar, highlighting the tension between pragmatism and idealism.
While Vishambhar embodies the spirit of sacrifice for a greater cause, Anand represents those who
prioritize personal gain and rationality over emotional, moral, or national duties. His character’s arc
remains static, reflecting his stubborn adherence to his worldview, even as those around him grow and
change. Ultimately, Anand’s inability to comprehend the importance of sacrifice and selflessness
leaves him isolated and distanced from the deeper emotional and patriotic currents of the story.

Character of Vishambhar
Vishambhar, another pivotal character in Munshi Premchand's Sacrifice, represents the
idealistic and self-sacrificing individual who is deeply committed to national and moral
causes. Vishambhar embodies the spirit of idealism, as he is driven by a sense of duty toward
the larger cause of India's independence. Unlike Anand, who is self-centred and materialistic,
Vishambhar prioritizes collective well-being and nationalistic ideals over personal success.
His involvement in the Congress movement shows his belief in self-sacrifice for the greater
good.

His patriotism is a defining trait. Vishambhar is willing to sacrifice his own academic and
career prospects to support India's freedom struggle. His unwavering commitment to the
cause demonstrates his belief that the nation's freedom is more important than personal
achievements or comfort. He is motivated by a deep sense of responsibility toward his
country and its people. Vishambhar's sense of morality is strong, and he consistently places
ethical principles above material gain. He views life as an opportunity to serve others and is
prepared to sacrifice his own desires to uphold these values. His moral integrity makes him
an admirable character, standing in sharp contrast to Anand’s self-serving nature. In the
broader context of the story, Vishambhar is the symbol of sacrifice. He represents the values
of self-denial, idealism, and devotion to a cause greater than oneself. His character is a tribute
to those who gave up personal pleasures and success to fight for India’s freedom, serving as a
role model for the younger generation in the story.

Vishambhar’s character is a stark contrast to Anand’s. While Anand is practical and self-
interested, Vishambhar is idealistic, self-sacrificing, and deeply committed to moral and
national causes. His character embodies the theme of selfless service, making him the
emotional and ethical heart of Premchand’s Sacrifice.
Character of Rupamani and the shift in her character
Rupamani, one of the key characters in Munshi Premchand’s Sacrifice, undergoes a
significant transformation from a naive and submissive young girl to a bold, independent
woman. Her journey reflects both personal growth and the influence of the changing political
and social environment of the time.

Vishambhar, with his selflessness and commitment to the nationalist cause, plays a crucial
role in Rupamani’s shift. His dedication to something larger than himself inspires her. She
comes to admire Vishambhar’s moral integrity. Unlike Anand, who is driven by personal
gain, Vishambhar’s sacrifices make Rupamani realize the importance of living for a purpose
greater than one’s own comfort. Under Vishambhar’s influence, Rupamani starts to question
the traditional roles assigned to women. She becomes aware of the ongoing nationalist
struggle and the values of self-sacrifice and dedication, which contrast sharply with her
previous, more limited perspective.

Rupamani’s transformation culminates in her emergence as a strong and independent woman.

She steps out of her passive, naive role and begins asserting her own identity. No longer the
quiet, submissive girl, she becomes a bold woman who is unafraid to stand up for what she
believes is right. Her emotional growth enables her to break free from her attachment to
Anand and align herself with the values of self-respect and moral integrity.

She becomes more vocal about her opinions, and her actions reflect the courage of a woman
who has come to realize her own strength. Rupamani’s personal growth mirrors the larger
awakening of Indian society, particularly the role of women in the independence movement
and the push toward breaking traditional gender norms.

By the end of the story, Rupamani symbolizes the new woman someone who is aware of her
own worth, willing to break free from societal expectations, and capable of making her own
decisions. Her journey from naivety to boldness reflects the broader theme of female
empowerment in the face of a patriarchal society, as well as the influence of nationalist ideals
that were reshaping the role of women during India’s freedom struggle. Rupamani’s character
arc in Sacrifice illustrates her shift from a naive, sheltered girl to a bold, independent woman
who finds her voice and moral compass. Her transformation is driven by her disillusionment
with Anand and her admiration for Vishambhar’s ideals, leading her to assert her own
identity and embody the spirit of self-respect and empowerment.

Indian Independence as the backdrop in the story

In Sacrifice by Munshi Premchand, the Indian independence movement forms a powerful and
significant backdrop, shaping the themes, characters, and events of the story. The narrative
explores not just personal relationships but also the political and social environment of
colonial India, where the struggle for freedom is gaining momentum.

Nationalist Ideals and Sacrifice:

The title Sacrifice itself reflects a key value associated with the independence movement the
idea of sacrificing personal desires for the greater good of the nation. The character of
Vishambhar symbolizes this ideal. He dedicates his life to the freedom struggle, forsaking
personal comfort and security. His actions serve as a moral contrast to Anand, who represents
the self-centred, materialistic mindset that is at odds with the larger nationalist cause.

2. The Clash of Values:

Characters like Rupamani and Vishambhar evolve to embrace the principles of selflessness,
moral integrity, and national duty. This reflects the growing awareness among Indians during
the independence struggle, as people began to shift their focus from personal or familial gain
to the larger collective goal of freedom from British rule.

3. Female Empowerment and the Freedom Struggle:

The changing role of women in Indian society, influenced by the independence movement, is
portrayed through Rupamani’s character. As she moves from naivety to boldness, her
personal growth parallels the increasing participation of women in the nationalist cause. The
movement encouraged women to step out of their traditional roles and contribute to the
struggle for freedom, just as Rupamani grows to challenge societal norms and assert her
independence.

4. Colonial Context and Moral Awakening:

Set against the backdrop of British colonialism, the story subtly critiques the complacency of
certain sections of society who remain indifferent to the call for freedom. Anand’s lack of
commitment to any higher ideal and his focus on material success reflect the attitudes of
those who prioritize personal gain over national duty. In contrast, the narrative champion’s
characters like Vishambhar, whose actions embody the spirit of resistance and moral
awakening sparked by the independence movement.

Conclusion:

In Sacrifice, Munshi Premchand uses the Indian independence movement as a critical

backdrop to highlight themes of personal sacrifice, moral integrity, and the evolving roles of
individuals in society. The story reflects the political tensions of the time and emphasizes the
need for selflessness and collective action in the fight for freedom. The nationalist ideals that
permeate the story serve as both a moral guide for the characters and a reflection of the
broader independence struggle unfolding across India.