Indigo by Satyajit Ray

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS [10 Marks]

I. ‘Indigo’ is a supernatural story. Discuss with close reference to the text.

"Indigo" by Satyajit Ray is a supernatural story that explores themes of identity, time, and the blurring of
past and present.

Supernatural Elements:

1. Unexplained transformations: Aniruddha suddenly changes into a 19th-century Englishman, both

physically and psychologically.
2. Time travel: Aniruddha finds himself in the past, experiencing events from 1868.
3. Ghostly presence: The Englishman's spirit seems to inhabit Aniruddha's body.

Paranormal Events:

1. Disappearing objects: Aniruddha's wristwatch, torch, and suitcase vanish.

2. Unexplained changes: The room's furniture and decor transform to match the Englishman's era.
3. Mysterious writings: Aniruddha writes in the diary as the Englishman.

Psychological Horror:

1. Identity loss: Aniruddha struggles to maintain his sense of self.

2. Descent into madness: The Englishman's dark past and emotions consume Aniruddha.
3. Traumatic experiences: Aniruddha witnesses and participates in disturbing events.

Atmosphere and Setting:

1. Isolated location: The dak bungalow's remote setting creates an eerie atmosphere.
2. Old, abandoned buildings: The factory and bungalow evoke a sense of decay and neglect.
3. Nocturnal setting: The events unfold at night, heightening the sense of unease.

Symbolism:

1. Indigo: Represents colonialism, exploitation, and the dark legacy of the past.
2. The Englishman's diary: Symbolizes the weight of history and guilt.

Ray masterfully weaves these elements to create a gripping narrative that blurs the lines between reality
and the supernatural, leaving the reader questioning what's real and what's just a product of Aniruddha's
fevered imagination.

Indigo AGM Notes 1

 Explanation:

Supernatural Themes in "Indigo"

Blurring of Reality and the Supernatural

Satyajit Ray's "Indigo" is a masterful exploration of the supernatural, delving into themes of identity, time,
and the fluidity of past and present. The story seamlessly integrates elements of horror, mystery, and
psychological intrigue.

Supernatural Elements

The narrative features unexplained transformations, time travel, and ghostly presence. Aniruddha's
sudden metamorphosis into a 19th-century Englishman raises questions about the nature of identity and
self. The Englishman's spirit inhabiting Aniruddha's body blurs the lines between past and present.

Paranormal Events and Psychological Horror

Disappearing objects, unexplained changes, and mysterious writings contribute to an atmosphere of

unease. Aniruddha's identity loss and descent into madness create a sense of psychological horror. The
traumatic experiences he witnesses and participates in further heighten the tension.

Setting and Symbolism

The isolated dak bungalow, old abandoned buildings, and nocturnal setting evoke a sense of decay and
neglect. Indigo represents colonialism, exploitation, and the dark legacy of the past. The Englishman's
diary symbolizes the weight of history and guilt.

A Gripping Narrative

Ray masterfully weaves these elements to create a gripping narrative that challenges the reader's
perception of reality. The story's ambiguity leaves the reader questioning what's real and what's just a
product of Aniruddha's fevered imagination. "Indigo" is a thought-provoking exploration of the
supernatural, identity, and the human experience.
Satyajit Ray's "Indigo" masterfully explores supernatural themes, blending identity, time, and
psychological horror, challenging reality and perception in a thought-provoking narrative.
II. What happened with Anirudha in the dak bunglow of an English planter?

Bullet points:

Aniruddha's Transformation in the Dak Bungalow

Aniruddha Bose, stranded due to a flat tire, seeks shelter in a dak bungalow. The caretaker, Sukhanram,
provides food and accommodation. However, strange events unfold:

1. Aniruddha's wristwatch and torch disappear.

2. He finds himself wearing unfamiliar clothes.
3. The room's furniture and objects change.
4. He discovers a mirror, revealing his transformation into a 19th-century Englishman.

Indigo AGM Notes 2

Compelled to write in a diary, Aniruddha learns about the Englishman's troubled past:

1. Exploitation of natives.
2. Malaria and impending death.
3. Guilt over treating locals poorly.

The diary entry ends with the Englishman's concern for his dog, Rex.

The Tragic Events

Aniruddha, now in the Englishman's body, shoots Rex with a pistol.

Return to Reality

The next morning, Sukhanram brings tea, and Aniruddha returns to his normal self.

Unresolved Questions

1. Was the transformation real or a dream?

2. Will anyone believe Aniruddha's incredible experience?
3. What significance does the 100th anniversary of the Englishman's death hold?

The events in the dak bungalow leave Aniruddha shaken, questioning reality and his own identity.
Explanation:

Aniruddha Bose's ordinary journey took a bizarre turn when he sought refuge in a dak bungalow after a
flat tire. Sukhanram, the caretaker, provided hospitality, but eerie events soon unfolded. Aniruddha's
wristwatch and torch vanished, and he found himself dressed in unfamiliar attire. The room's furniture
transformed, replacing the charpoy and lantern with luxurious items.

A mirror revealed the most astonishing change: Aniruddha had transformed into a 19th-century
Englishman. Compelled to write in a diary, he discovered the Englishman's troubled past. The diary
revealed exploitation of natives, struggles with malaria, and impending death. The Englishman's guilt over
mistreating locals weighed heavily on his conscience.

The diary entry concluded with concern for his loyal dog, Rex. In a tragic turn, Aniruddha, now embodied
in the Englishman, shot Rex with a pistol. The sound of gunfire and the hound's death filled the air.

The next morning, Sukhanram's arrival with tea snapped Aniruddha back to reality. He reverted to his
normal self, bewildered by the experience. Questions lingered: Was the transformation real or a dream?
Would anyone believe his tale? What significance did the 100th anniversary of the Englishman's death
hold?

The dak bungalow experience left Aniruddha shaken, questioning reality and identity. His ordinary life had
intersected with a dark chapter of history, blurring lines between past and present.

Indigo AGM Notes 3

 III. Explain the suitability of the title of the story.

The title "Indigo" resonates deeper, encompassing the narrative's historical, thematic, and mysterious
aspects suggests a richer, more complex exploration of India's past and its lingering impact.

Thematic Significance
"Indigo" captures the story's core theme: colonialism and exploitation. Indigo plantations symbolize the
oppressive system that ravaged India's rural landscape and its people, conveying historical injustices and
cultural displacement.

Historical Context
Indigo plantations were a significant aspect of India's colonial history, with the British East India Company
forcing Indian farmers to cultivate indigo. The title serves as a poignant reminder of this painful past,
grounding the narrative in historical reality.

Mysterious Connotations
"Indigo" evokes mystery, fitting for a story blending supernatural and historical elements. The title
suggests the unknown, unseen, and unsettling, mirroring the narrative's eerie atmosphere and
Aniruddha's transformation.

Connection to Aniruddha's Interest

Aniruddha's fascination with indigo plantations links his past and present. The title naturally fits this
narrative thread, emphasizing the significance of his interest and its connection to the story's themes.

Brevity and Impact

"Indigo" is concise and memorable, conveying the story's essence without revealing too much. Its brevity
belies the narrative's complexity, inviting readers to explore the story's depths.

By choosing "Indigo" as the title, Satyajit Ray effectively:

• Captures the narrative's historical and thematic essence

• Evokes mystery and intrigue
• Connects the protagonist's past and present
• Conveys complexity in a concise manner

The title "Indigo" masterfully distills the narrative's essence, inviting readers to engage with the story's
multifaceted exploration of India's past, identity, and the human experience.
IV. Who is Aniruddha Bose? What kind of life was he leading?

Aniruddha Bose was a freelancer writer who worked in an advertising company in Calcutta and lead a
carefree bachelor’s life. Let us consider the following aspects:

Aniruddha Bose: A Life of Comfort and Curiosity

Aniruddha Bose, a 29-year-old bachelor, leads a comfortable life in Calcutta. He works at an advertising
agency, owns a flat and an Ambassador car, and enjoys writing in his spare time. Three of his stories have
been published, earning appreciation from acquaintances.

Indigo AGM Notes 4

 Born in Monghyr, Bihar, Aniruddha's early years shaped his habits and interests. After his father's death,
he moved to Calcutta with his mother and attended St Xavier's College. He developed a desire to escape
Calcutta's hectic life periodically.

Aniruddha's current fascination is indigo plantations in 19th-century Bengal and Bihar. He has become an
authority on the subject, knowing the history of British exploitation, peasant revolts, and the decline of
indigo cultivation.

His social life is relatively solitary, lacking close friends in Calcutta. However, a letter from childhood friend
Promode, inviting him to Dumka, sparks excitement. Aniruddha decides to take a road trip, embarking on
a journey that will change his life forever.

Key Characteristics:

• Comfortable lifestyle • Cautious and confident driver

• Passionate about writing and history • Curious and knowledgeable about indigo
• Desire for solitude and escape plantations
• Loyal to friendships

Aniruddha's life is marked by a mix of comfort, curiosity, and solitude, setting the stage for a
transformative experience on his journey to Dumka.

V. How has Satyajit Ray made his story interesting?

Satyajit Ray crafts a captivating narrative using atmosphere, plot twists, symbolism,
psychological manipulation, immersive storytelling, and exploration of complex themes,
building suspense and curiosity.

Satyajit Ray's Storytelling Techniques include:

Creating Tension and Engagement

Satyajit Ray crafts a captivating narrative through expertly woven elements. Atmosphere and Setting play
a crucial role, with isolated, rainy, and dark environments creating tension. Unexpected Events and Plot
Twists disrupt the protagonist's journey, keeping readers engaged.

Building Mystery and Intrigue

Mysterious Characters and Symbolism, such as Sukhanram, indigo, and the watch, intrigue and
foreshadow. Psychological Manipulation blurs reality, challenges perceptions, and creates uncertainty.

Immersive Storytelling
Immersive Storytelling transports readers with vivid descriptions and sensory details. Identity Disruption
raises questions about identity and self through the protagonist's transformation.

Historical Context and Themes

The 1868 Setting explores colonialism, exploitation, and legacy. Ray masterfully explores complex themes:
Identity, Colonialism, Guilt, Redemption, and Mortality.

Indigo AGM Notes 5

 Masterful Storytelling
Masterful Pacing maintains suspense, curiosity, and engagement with gradual clues. The Unreliable
Narrator challenges reader's perceptions, adding mystery and suspense.

Result: A Captivating Narrative

Ray's techniques build suspense and tension, challenge reader's perceptions, explore complex themes,
create uncertainty and curiosity, and leave readers pondering the protagonist's experience. Overall, his
storytelling creates a captivating and thought-provoking narrative.

VI. What happened to Aniruddha Bose before he took shelter in a dak bungalow in the story
‘Indigo’?

Before taking shelter in the dak bungalow, Aniruddha Bose faced a series of setbacks on his journey to
Dumka. His departure was delayed by:

• An unexpected visit from Uncle Mohit, delaying him by over an hour

• Concerns from neighbor Bhola Babu about driving alone
• A late start at 11:10 AM instead of 10:00 AM

As he drove, Aniruddha encountered:

• Slow progress through dingy towns (30 miles in 1.5 hours)

• Hunger, forcing him to stop for a meal near Burdwan
• A flat tire near Panagarh
• Inclement weather (storm)
• A second flat tire near Massanjore, leaving him stranded without spare tires
• Uncertainty about his location due to blinding rain

These cumulative delays and mishaps transformed Aniruddha's anticipated smooth drive into a frustrating
and challenging experience. Stranded and uncertain, he spotted a light from a nearby house, leading him
to seek shelter in the dak bungalow.

The series of unfortunate events showcased Aniruddha's resilience and adaptability. The narrative sets
the stage for his transformative experience at the dak bungalow, where he assumes the identity of a 19th-
century English indigo planter.

Aniruddha's journey highlights the unpredictability of travel and the human spirit's capacity to cope with
adversity. The events leading up to his arrival at the dak bungalow create tension and anticipation,
foreshadowing the extraordinary events that will unfold.
VII. Comment on the ending of the story?

The ending of the story is a thought-provoking and unsettling conclusion to Aniruddha's transformative
experience. After assuming the identity of the English indigo planter, Aniruddha witnesses the planter's
tragic demise. The planter's desperation and guilt culminate in his shooting of Rex, his loyal dog, and his
subsequent contemplation of suicide.

Indigo AGM Notes 6

 The abrupt transition back to Aniruddha's reality, marked by Sukhanram's arrival with tea, raises
questions about the nature of time and identity. Has Aniruddha truly returned to his own life, or has the
experience left an indelible mark? The story's final line, "Would anyone believe me when they heard of
my experience...?" underscores the ambiguity.

The ending achieves several objectives:

1. Highlights the cyclical nature of time, linking past and present.

2. Raises questions about identity and the blurring of boundaries.
3. Emphasizes the haunting legacy of colonialism and its impact on individuals.
4. Leaves the reader with a sense of unease, pondering Aniruddha's experience and its implications.

Overall, the ending masterfully crafts a sense of ambiguity, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of
identity, time, and the human experience.
VIII. What do you learn about the indigo planter?

The indigo planter, whose identity Aniruddha temporarily assumes, is revealed to be a complex and
troubled individual with a dark past:

Personal Life:

• Young, likely under 30, but prematurely aged due to illness and hard work
• Married to Mary, with a son Toby, both deceased
• Has a faithful bearer, Mirjan, and a loyal dog, Rex

Characteristics:

• Greedy and driven by the lure of indigo, despite repeated malaria attacks
• Treated natives poorly, earning their disdain
• Aware of his reputation in England and ashamed of his past actions
• Reflects on the irony of being killed by mosquitoes, a tiny enemy

Emotional State:

• Resigned to dying on foreign soil, away from home and family

• Regretful of past actions and aware of his own mortality
• Concerned about Rex's fate after his own death

Circumstances:

• Lives in a remote village in Birbhum, surrounded by his indigo factory and bamboo grove
• Has connections with other Englishmen, Eric, Percy, and Tony, who have escaped
• Faces opposition and hostility from the locals

Tragic End:

• Kills his own dog, Rex, to spare him a worse fate

Indigo AGM Notes 7
• Contemplates taking his own life with the pistol, suggesting a deep sense of despair and hopelessness

The narrative presents a nuanced portrayal of a flawed individual, highlighting the psychological toll of
colonialism, exploitation, and guilt. The planter's story serves as a commentary on the darker aspects of
human nature and the consequences of one's actions.
Explanation:

The indigo planter, whose identity Aniruddha assumes, is a complex and troubled individual. His personal
life is marred by tragedy, having lost his wife Mary and son Toby. Despite his youth, he appears
prematurely aged due to illness and hard work. His only remaining connections are his faithful bearer
(messenger), Mirjan, and loyal dog, Rex.

The planter's character is defined by greed and a drive for indigo, disregarding the risks of malaria. He
treated natives poorly, earning their disdain, and is aware of his reputation in England. This awareness
fuels his shame and regret over past actions. He ironically notes that mosquitoes, a tiny enemy, may kill
him.

Emotionally, the planter is resigned to dying alone, away from home and family. He regrets his past and is
aware of his mortality. Concerned about Rex's fate, he kills his dog to spare him a worse fate,
demonstrating his attachment and desperation.

Living in a remote Birbhum village, surrounded by his indigo factory and bamboo grove, the planter faces
local opposition. Connections to fellow Englishmen Eric, Percy, and Tony remind him of his precarious
situation. His tragic end, contemplating suicide, highlights the psychological toll of colonialism,
exploitation, and guilt.

The narrative presents a nuanced portrayal of a flawed individual, commenting on human nature's darker
aspects and the consequences of one's actions. The planter's story serves as a powerful critique of
colonialism's destructive legacy.
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS [5 Marks]

1. What information does Aniruddha Bose share with the readers in the beginning?

Aniruddha Bose is a 29-year-old bachelor. He has spent the last eight years working at an advertising
agency in Calcutta, where his salary allows him to live comfortably in a ground-floor flat on Sardar
Shankar Road. The flat features two south-facing rooms. He owns an Ambassador car, which he
purchased two years ago and drives himself.

In addition to his advertising career, Aniruddha engages in writing as a hobby. He has successfully
published three stories in magazines, earning appreciation from acquaintances. However, he
recognizes that writing alone cannot provide a sufficient livelihood.
2. Why did Aniruddha Bose consider himself an expert on indigo plantations?
Aniruddha Bose considered himself an expert on indigo plantations due to his extensive research
on the subject. Over the past few months, he had devoted himself to reading about indigo
plantations in 19th-century Bengal and Bihar. His in-depth study covered the British exploitation of
peasants, the peasants' revolt, and the eventual decline of indigo cultivation following Germany's
invention of synthetic indigo. Having committed this knowledge to memory, Aniruddha felt
Indigo AGM Notes 8
 confident in his authority on the subject. His interest in indigo was sparked by a personal
experience, which he intended to recount through his writing.

• Aniruddha Bose considered himself an expert on indigo plantations due to extensive research.
• His research focused on 19th-century indigo plantations in Bengal and Bihar.
• Key topics studied:
o British exploitation of peasants
o Peasants' revolt
o Decline of indigo cultivation after Germany's invention of synthetic indigo
• His in-depth knowledge made him confident in his authority on the subject.
• His interest in indigo was sparked by a personal experience that he intended to write about.

3. Who is Promode? Why did Aniruddha Bose want to visit Dumka?

Promode is Aniruddha Bose's old classmate from Monghyr. They had maintained contact for a few
years after Aniruddha moved to Calcutta, but eventually lost touch. Promode's letter rekindled their
connection, inviting Aniruddha to visit him in Dumka.

Aniruddha wanted to visit Dumka because Promode, now working in the Forest Department, extended
a warm invitation. Promode offered his quarters as accommodation, and Aniruddha saw this as an
opportunity to reconnect with an old friend and escape Calcutta's hectic life. The invitation sparked
Aniruddha's desire for a break, a habit formed during his early years in Monghyr. He decided to take a
week's leave and visit Promode in Dumka.
4. Which snags does Aniruddha mention that came initially?

Aniruddha mentions the following initial snags:

(i) Unexpected visit from Uncle Mohit: Aniruddha's father's old friend arrived unexpectedly, delaying
his departure by over an hour.
(ii) Concerns from Bhola Babu: Aniruddha's neighbor expressed worries about him driving alone for
200 miles.
(iii) Late start: Aniruddha began his journey at 11:10 AM, later than his planned 10:00 AM departure.
(iv) Slow progress through dingy towns: The initial 30 miles took an hour and a half, dampening
Aniruddha's excitement.
(v) Hunger: Aniruddha had to stop for a meal near Burdwan, further delaying his journey.
(vi) Flat tire: Aniruddha experienced a flat tire near Panagarh, requiring him to change the tire.
(vii) Inclement weather: A storm brewed, making driving conditions hazardous.
(viii) Second flat tire: Another tire burst near Massanjore, leaving Aniruddha stranded without
spare tires.
(ix) Uncertainty about his location: Aniruddha wondered if he had taken a wrong turn in the blinding
rain.

Aniruddha's journey to Dumka was marred by several initial snags. The first setback
occurred when Uncle Mohit, his father's old friend, arrived unexpectedly, delaying his departure by
over an hour.

Indigo AGM Notes 9

 Another hindrance came from his neighbor, Bhola Babu, who expressed concerns about
Aniruddha driving alone for 200 miles. Additionally, Aniruddha's late start at 11:10 AM, instead of
the planned 10:00 AM, further contributed to the delays.
As Aniruddha embarked on his journey, he encountered slow progress through dingy
towns, taking an hour and a half to cover the initial 30 miles. His hunger also forced him to stop for
a meal near Burdwan, causing more delays.
The situation worsened with a flat tire near Panagarh, followed by inclement weather, and
another flat tire near Massanjore, leaving Aniruddha stranded without spare tires. To make
matters worse, the blinding rain made him uncertain about his location, wondering if he had taken
a wrong turn.
These series of unfortunate events disrupted Aniruddha's planned smooth and enjoyable
drive to Dumka.

5. What happened when Aniruddha took a wrong turn?

When Aniruddha took a wrong turn after Suri, he faced severe consequences:

He realized his mistake after another tire burst, leaving him stranded without spare tires.

The heavy rain and late evening darkness made navigation impossible.

No vehicles passed by, and Aniruddha wondered if he was lost.

A truck arrived, and its drivers informed Aniruddha that he was on the wrong road for Dumka.

He learned he had to drive back three miles to correct his route.

Additionally, there were no nearby repair shops to fix his car.

The truck drivers helped Aniruddha move his car to the side, and then continued on their way.

Left alone, Aniruddha faced the harsh reality: he had reached a dead end, unable to reach Dumka that
night, with no clear plan for spending the night.

6. Why could not Aniruddha forget the twenty seventh of April?

Aniruddha cannot forget the 27th of April due to the unprecedented events that unfolded. His journey
to Dumka was marred by multiple flat tires, storms, wrong turns, and getting lost. After a helpful truck
driver informed him of his mistakes, Aniruddha spent the night in a dilapidated dak bungalow.

That night, he underwent a mysterious transformation into a 19th-century English indigo planter. In
this altered state, he wrote a diary entry dated 27 April 1868, revealing the planter's dark past and
impending doom. He also shot his loyal dog, Rex, and nearly took his own life.

The next morning, Aniruddha awoke in his own body, shaken by the experience. The coincidence that
it occurred on the 100th anniversary of the English planter's death made it even more unsettling. This
bizarre and terrifying transformation made the 27th of April an unforgettable date for Aniruddha.

Indigo AGM Notes 10

 7. What is norwester? How could Aniruddha face norwester?

A norwester is a type of storm common in eastern India, particularly in West Bengal and Bangladesh,
during the pre-monsoon season (April-May). It's characterized by:

• Sudden and intense rain showers

• Strong gusty winds
• Thunder and lightning
• Dark clouds

Aniruddha faced the norwester while driving through open country. Initially, he enjoyed the storm's
arrival, recalling Tagore poems. However, driving through it:

• Struck terror in his heart

• Made him uncomfortable due to claps of thunder
• Made him feel vulnerable, as if lightning shafts targeted his car
• Reduced visibility due to heavy rain
• Forced him to slow down to 15 km/h

The norwester worsened Aniruddha's already challenging journey, which included flat tires, wrong turns,
and getting lost. The storm added to his anxiety and desperation, making the experience even more
harrowing.

8. How did the truck driver react at Aniruddha’s car standing in the way?

When the truck driver encountered Aniruddha's car blocking the road, he reacted calmly and helpfully.

Initially, the driver honked the horn to alert Aniruddha, but upon realizing the situation, he politely
asked Aniruddha to move his car to one side.

Upon exiting the truck, the Sikh driver inquired about the issue, asking if it was a puncture.

Aniruddha explained his helplessness, and the driver willingly offered assistance.

Together, Aniruddha, the driver, and his helper pushed the car to the side of the road, allowing the
truck to pass.

During their interaction, the truck drivers informed Aniruddha that he was on the wrong road for
Dumka and provided valuable information about the lack of nearby repair shops.

After helping Aniruddha, the truck drivers continued on their way, leaving Aniruddha to face the
reality of his situation.

9. Who was Sukunaram? What help did he render to Aniruddha?

Sukhanram was the chowkidar (caretaker) of the dilapidated dak bungalow where Aniruddha spent the
night. He rendered the following help:

Indigo AGM Notes 11

 a) Provided shelter: Sukhanram guided Aniruddha to the bungalow and offered him a place to stay.
b) Food: Sukhanram and his wife prepared coarse chapatis and urad-kadal (lentil dish) for
Aniruddha's dinner.
c) Assistance: Sukhanram lit a lantern for Aniruddha and helped him settle in.
d) Information: Sukhanram informed Aniruddha about the history of the bungalow, the indigo
factory, and the nearby car repair shop.
e) Morning service: Sukhanram brought Aniruddha tea in the morning and informed him about the
car repair shop's opening time.

Sukhanram's kindness and helpfulness provided Aniruddha with much-needed comfort during his
challenging journey.
10. What kind of bungalow did Aniruddha spend the night in? How did it affect him?

Aniruddha spent the night in a dilapidated dak bungalow, a relic of the British Raj era, which once served
as the residence of an indigo planter. The bungalow's atmosphere and history profoundly affected
Aniruddha, leading to a surreal and transformative experience.

As he settled in, Aniruddha felt a sense of unease, heightened by the bungalow's eerie silence, the sound
of crickets, and the howling of jackals. The bungalow's past seemed to seep into his reality, and he began
to experience a strange metamorphosis.

He discovered that:

• His belongings had vanished.

• His appearance changed to that of a 19th-century Englishman.
• He wrote in a diary, expressing thoughts and emotions not his own.
• He shot his own dog, Rex.

The bungalow's dark history, coupled with its isolated setting, seemed to transport Aniruddha to another
time and identity. The experience blurred the lines between reality and fantasy, leaving Aniruddha
questioning his own sanity and identity.

The next morning, Aniruddha returned to his normal self, with no recollection of the events that
transpired during the night. The experience left him shaken, wondering if anyone would believe his
extraordinary story.

11. How did Aniruddha feel himself transformed?

Aniruddha felt himself transformed into a 19th-century Englishman through a series of surreal and
unsettling experiences:

1. Loss of personal belongings: His wristwatch, torch, and suitcase vanished.

2. Change in attire: He found himself wearing a long-sleeved silk shirt, narrow trousers, and socks.
3. Altered physical appearance: His complexion, features, hair, and sideburns transformed.
4. Unfamiliar surroundings: The bungalow's interior and exterior changed.
5. Shift in identity: He began to think and act like the Englishman, writing in a diary and expressing the
Englishman's thoughts and emotions.
6. Loss of control: His limbs moved of their own volition.
Indigo AGM Notes 12
 These transformations were accompanied by:

• A deep sigh rising from his heart

• A change in his voice to a deep English accent
• An urge to look at his new reflection in a mirror

Aniruddha's awareness of the transformation and his original identity remained intact, leaving him
bewildered and terror-stricken.

The transformation seemed to be connected to the bungalow's dark history and the English indigo
planter's tragic fate, which Aniruddha had unknowingly tapped into. The experience blurred the lines
between reality and fantasy, leaving Aniruddha questioning his own sanity and identity.

12. What do you learn about the indigo planter? What kind of a person was he?

The indigo planter, whose identity Aniruddha temporarily assumes, is revealed to be a complex and
troubled individual:

Characteristics:

• Young, likely under 30, but prematurely aged due to illness and hard work
• Sallow complexion, blond hair, and light eyes reflecting hardness and suffering
• Greedy and driven by the lure of indigo, despite repeated malaria attacks
• Treated natives poorly, earning their disdain
• Has a faithful bearer, Mirjan, and a loyal dog, Rex

Emotional State:

• Resigned to dying on foreign soil, away from home and family

• Regretful of past actions and aware of his reputation in England
• Concerned about Rex's fate after his own death
• Reflects on the irony of being killed by mosquitoes, a tiny enemy

Actions:

• Writes in his diary, revealing his thoughts and emotions

• Shoots his own dog, Rex, to spare him a worse fate
• Contemplates taking his own life with the pistol

The planter's story suggests:

• The exploitation and mistreatment of natives during the colonial era

• The psychological toll of living in isolation and guilt
• The complexity of human nature, with both good and evil qualities coexisting

Through Aniruddha's transformation, the narrative humanizes the planter, presenting a nuanced (subtle
shades of meaning) portrayal of a flawed individual trapped in his circumstances.

Indigo AGM Notes 13

 GIVE REASONS

(i) Aniruddha was doing a bit of writing work also because he had a creative inclination and wanted to
express himself beyond his advertising job, having already published three well-appreciated stories.

(ii) Aniruddha considered himself an expert on indigo plantations because he had extensively read about
the topic, specifically how the British exploited peasants, the peasants' revolt, and the decline of indigo
cultivation after Germany's invention of synthetic indigo.

(iii) Aniruddha and his mother had to shift to Calcutta because his father, a well-known physician in
Monghyr, passed away when Aniruddha was 16, prompting them to move in with his maternal uncle.

(iv) He had made several trips in his car because he had an overpowering desire to escape Calcutta's
hectic life from time to time, often driving alone to nearby places like Diamond Harbour, Port Canning,
and Hassanabad.

(v) Aniruddha left for Dumka because his old friend Promode, a classmate from Monghyr, invited him to
visit, having secured a job in Dumka's Forest Department and offering Aniruddha accommodation in his
quarters.
(vi) Twenty-seventh of April was the day which Aniruddha could never forget because it was the day he
embarked on a disastrous and memorable journey to Dumka, filled with unexpected events and
challenges.

(vii) Uncle Mohit could not be treated lightly because he was Aniruddha's father's old friend, whom
Aniruddha respected and hadn't seen in ten years, requiring Aniruddha to offer him tea and listen to his
conversation.

(viii) Aniruddha’s watch had turned muggy because the atmosphere had turned muggy, indicating a
sudden change in weather, with the cool breeze stopping and clouds gathering, signaling an impending
storm.

(ix) Bursting of another tyre of the car was called another thunderclap because the loud bang of the tyre
bursting was similar to the sound of thunder, and Aniruddha was already anxious about the storm.

(x) The truck driver was honking again and again because Aniruddha's car, with a flat tire, had swerved
and blocked most of the road, leaving no room for the truck to pass, prompting the driver to ask
Aniruddha to move his car to one side.

****

Indigo AGM Notes 14