• Divvela Surendra
• M. Raja Ambedkar

Salman Rushdie's novel Midnight's Children is a thematically rich work that explores the connections between history and individual experiences, the impact of colonialism and neocolonialism in India, and the themes of fragmentation, migrancy, and memory. This paper aims to delve into these themes and shed light on Rushdie's skillful integration of Indian history with the life of the protagonist, Saleem Sinai. The novel captures the political turmoil and violence that characterized India's early independence, and Saleem's personal journey is intricately intertwined with the events shaping the nation. Through various historical and personal incidents, Rushdie emphasizes the profound link between the individual and the larger historical context. The novel also critiques British colonialism and its long-lasting effects on India, portraying characters such as Methwold as symbols of exploitation and moral degradation. Rushdie exposes the myths of British superiority and the neocolonial games played by the British to create dependence among the Indian population. Furthermore, the theme of fragmentation, migrancy, and memory is explored through Saleem's experiences as a migrant and his struggle to reconcile his divided identity. Rushdie highlights the sense of homelessness and anxiety experienced by migrants and their complex relationship with their homeland. The novel's fragmented memories and migratory patterns depict the challenges faced by individuals caught between multiple worlds. Rushdie challenges the notion of objective history and portrays it as subjective, unreliable, and easily manipulated by contemporary regimes. Through a unique narrative style that blends heroism and absurdity, Rushdie underscores the limited agency of individuals in opposing powerful systems. Overall, "Midnight's Children" presents a thought-provoking exploration of history, individuality, colonialism, and the complexities of identity in a postcolonial context.

Salman Rushdie, Midnight's Children, Colonialism, Neocolonialism, Migrancy, British superiority, Identity, Migrants, Narrative style, Absurdity, Critique of colonialism

"SALMAN RUSHDIE’S MIDNIGHT’S CHILDREN – A THEMATIC STUDY", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 6, page no.114-119, June-2019, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1907W18.pdf

"SALMAN RUSHDIE’S MIDNIGHT’S CHILDREN – A THEMATIC STUDY", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 6, page no. pp114-119, June-2019, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1907W18.pdf