Coolie

novel by Anand

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June 24, 2026

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Coolie is a novel by Mulk Raj Anand, published in 1936. It is known for its realistic portrayal of poverty and social injustice in India. The novel follows the picaresque journey of its protagonist, highlighting universal themes of human suffering and resilience in the face of economic hardship.1

The term "coolie" itself refers to an unskilled laborer or porter, often from the Far East, hired for very low wages. This term is generally considered offensive. Anand's novel uses this context to explore how economic struggles can transcend social divisions like caste and religion, fostering a sense of shared humanity among the oppressed.21

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Mulk Raj Anand
Notable works
…his novels Untouchable (1935) and Coolie (1936), both of which examined the problems of poverty in Indian society. Untouchable is considered a landmark work in Indian literature for its raw portrayal of the harsh realities faced by the so-called “untouchables” in Indian society. Anand’s depiction of Bakha’s struggles in Untouchable…
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…his novels Untouchable (1935) and Coolie (1936), both of which examined the problems of poverty in Indian society. Untouchable is considered a landmark work in Indian literature for its raw portrayal of the harsh realities faced by the so-called “untouchables” in Indian society. Anand’s depiction of Bakha’s struggles in Untouchable…
Read More