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"A Fine Balance" is a novel written by Rohinton Mistry. Set in the 1970s in India, the story revolves around four main characters: Dina, Ishvar, Om, and Maneck.Dina Dalal, a strong and independent woman, is struggling to make a living as a widow. She takes in two tailors, Ishvar and Om, who are from a lower caste and have left their rural village. Despite their initial differences, the characters form a bond and become a sort of makeshift family.The novel delves into the harsh realities of India during that time, including the state of emergency, corruption, and social injustices. Dina, Ishvar, and Om all face personal hardships and tragedies, but they find solace and strength in their friendship.Maneck, a college student from a wealthier background, plays a significant role in the story as he becomes a tenant in Dina's apartment. Maneck's experiences and observations provide a different perspective on the social and economic disparities prevalent in Indian society.Throughout the novel, Mistry explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dignity in the face of adversity. "A Fine Balance" portrays the complexities of human relationships and the impacts of societal structures on individuals' lives.Overall, the novel offers a poignant and emotionally charged portrayal of life in India during a tumultuous period, highlighting the strength and endurance of the human spirit.

A Fine Balance 

DIASPORA

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NOTE ON DIASPORA Diaspora (Greek, 'dispersion'), is a term used for large scale migration of people from the country of their origin to other countries, either voluntarily or due to economic or political compulsions. When we speak of the Indian Diaspora we mean Indians settled in England, America, Africa, and the Caribbean. Similarly one can discuss the Caribbean Diaspora to England, Canada and France. Diaspora studies also became an academic discipline. In literature too the text composed of such displacement constitutes the Diaspora Literature. Diasporas refers to communities of people who have been displaced from the countries of their birth for socio-economic or political reasons. Their movement could be either forced or voluntary. Etymologically, the word diaspora was derived from the Greek word diasperien meaning to "sow or scatter seeds", which means new beginning and transplantation. Bill Ashcroft, Gareth Griffiths and Helen Tiffin define diaspora