The abandoned Kuruda Outstation used to have trains stopping there, but now it is deserted except for stray animals. The train climbs Kuruda Hill and enters a ravine, then arrives at the bustling Tori station, which is a coal halt and a junction for bus routes. Tori is known for its timber brokers and the arrival of Sal-logs, which are split and sent in various directions.
Mary Oraon, a tribal girl, works at the Prasad household and is admired by many at the Tori market. She is in a relationship with Jalim and they plan to marry when they have saved enough money. Mary is hardworking and earns money by picking mahua fruit from the Prasad property, which she sells at a profit in Tori.
Mary is independent and does not tolerate familiarity from Prasadji, but she is also distrustful of Jalim and does not fully trust him. Mary is accepted in the village society but longs to be part of the Oraons, her own tribe. Mary’s life is disrupted when Collector Singh arrives with Prasadji’s son, causing a storm in the quiet and impoverished existence of Kuruda.
Prasadji owns a bungalow with a large tract of land attached to it. The land ceiling laws are not being followed in the area. Mr. Dixon planted giant Sal trees on fifty acres of land. Prasadji wants to sell the trees at the highest price. Lalchand and Mulniji, other forest proprietors, are also happy about this.
Prasadji’s son, Banwari, takes the initiative to find a buyer and brings in Collector Singh. Negotiations for the sale of the trees begin. The broker and other forest proprietors are in favor of selling the trees. The broker plans the deployment of manpower from nearby villages.
Mary, a contact between Tohri and Kuruda, warns Prasadji that the broker is taking advantage of him. Mary insults Collector Singh and warns him not to bother her again. Collector Singh continues to pursue Mary, but she is uninterested.
The felling of the trees continues, and the weather warms up. The women in the area participate in a ritual hunt during the Spring festival. They hunt and then celebrate together.
The forest that was once filled with animals and excitement has now become empty and lifeless. Mary is tired of the Collector’s relentless pursuit. Jalim might become angry if he finds out about Mary and the Collector’s relationship, and he may even try to harm the Collector. The Collector has a lot of money and power, and he could ruin Jalim’s life by framing him for a crime.
The Collector catches Mary’s hand one day, but she manages to escape from his grasp. The Collector promises the men liquor for the Spring festival, and they celebrate by singing and dressing up as clowns. Mary and the Collector have a conversation where he expresses his desire for her and promises to give her clothes and jewels.
Mary agrees to meet the Collector on the day of the feast, but she asks him to keep their relationship a secret. Mary realizes that the Collector won’t try to grab her again, and she leaves him with a pat on the cheek.
The Spring festival fire burned high and reddened the sky. The men are wild with drink, songs, and color. The very old women are looking after the children. The women armed themselves and went into the forest for a hunt. Mary is wearing a new sari and is excited about the hunt. Mary has contributed money and liquor for the festivities.
The Collector has provided liquor and promised to demonstrate a dance Mary is determined to hunt a big beast and is filled with anticipation Mary imagines a romantic encounter with the Collector. Mary kills the Collector and takes his money.
Mary washes herself in the Cut and feels satisfied. Mary returns to the gathering and enjoys the festivities. Mary plans to leave with Jalim after the celebrations. Mary feels fearless and empowered after her kill.
Mahasweta Devi Draupadi Summary
Munshi Premchand The Holy Panchayat Summary
Walter Scott The Heart of Midlothian Summary Chapter 1-10
One Reply to “Mahasweta Devi The Hunt Summary”