I am pleased to write about the work of young and rather novice Mr. Batth who is yet to make a mark in the field of writing. Though less than twenty years of age, still he has chosen a thought-provoking and captivating subject matter for attempting his maiden fiction entitled Anhad (2011). He has shown maturity in handling the theme and the spiritual message of this prose-work, despite being immature in years. The limitless trust of Mr. Batth in the Sikh faith is praise-worthy. The fiction work, on the whole, underlines his staunch devotion for Humanity as the novel richly displays unflinching faith in humanity and Religion. However, the novel cuts across the bounds of any single Religion or community as it transcends Sikh religion also.
In an age of omnipresent western culture influence, Mr. Batth has chosen a novel subject matter, rich in appeal for the modern Punjabi youth. Exploiting the age-old and well-respected Sikh tales of valour, he has portrayed a protagonist Sikh boy named Anhad, who though is a foundling, yet rises up to the status of a Savior for Humanity against all vices. A divine angel endows Anhad with powers and virtues, required for his task of eradicating evil and the evil doers from this earth. Thus Anhad, who is actually a worldly being, still ends up becoming a Superhero for Humanity. Welfare and protection of Humanity from the clutches of evil is the be-all and end-all of Anhad.
The plot and structure of Anhad is well-knit and episodic. The narrative has been told in objective and omniscient manner. The reader will find one or two episodes rather fantastic in nature, which lends the colour of ‘Magic realism’ to this fiction. The diction of the piece is quite comprehendible and rather colloquial. The Gurumukhi words have been used repeatedly. The recital of couplets by Anhad from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, clearly highlights the influence of the teachings of the Sikh Scripture on Mr. Batth.
I am sure that this prose-fiction will appeal not only to the Sikh community but also to all the religious-minded sect of the society. I am convinced that the work will attract many mature readers and critics alike. I take this golden opportunity to congratulate Mr. Batth on the successful completion of this piece. I wish him all the luck in the field of fiction and pray to the Almighty for his glowing future.
Prof. Rohit Chatrath
