Barrister Parvatishan
A Humorous Tale of East Meets West
by Mokkapati Narasimha ShastriAbout This Book
A naive young Brahmin from rural Andhra Pradesh sets out for England to become a barrister, armed with more enthusiasm than common sense. Through a series of hilarious misadventures — from baffling train journeys and seasick ocean crossings to bewildering English customs and ill-fitting suits — Parvatishan stumbles through the culture shock of early 20th century England and returns home a changed man. Mokkapati Narasimha Shastri's beloved 1924 Telugu classic is one of India's funniest novels, a warm-hearted satire on ambition, identity, and the comedy of crossing cultures.
Characters
Barrister Parvateesam
The protagonist and narrator of the novel, recounting his childhood experiences and later adventures.
Raju
A Telugu-speaking man encountered at the Indian Association, who is asked to help Parvateesam find a room.
Achyutaramaiah
A Brahmin lawyer from Mogalturru, introduced as a potential father-in-law, whose eldest daughter becomes a marriage prospect for Parvateesam.
Mokkapati Narasimha Shastri
The author and narrator of the novel, who provides commentary and context about Parvatisham and the writing of the book.
Parvateesam
The protagonist and narrator, a naive young Brahmin whose misadventures and coming-of-age are the focus of the novel.
Parvateesham
The protagonist and narrator, a clever but mischievous young Brahmin boy whose school days and coming-of-age are central to the story.
About the Author
1892–1960
Mokkapati Narasimha Shastri (1892-1960) was a celebrated Telugu writer, humorist, and playwright whose works brought laughter and social commentary to Telugu literature. Born in Mogalturru, Andhra Pradesh, he is best known for 'Barrister Parvatishan' (1924), a satirical novel about a young Indian's misadventures in England that became one of the most beloved Telugu novels of the 20th century. Shastri's gift for observational humor and his ability to capture the absurdities of cross-cultural encounters made him a pioneer of humorous writing in Telugu. His works continue to be widely read and have been adapted for stage and screen.
Preview
Many people who have read Parvatisham’s book often ask me, “Who is this fellow, anyway?” or, “On whom did you base this character?” or, “How did you ever come up with the idea to write like this?” I am constantly bombarded with such questions. Not only that, but recently the radio folks too said, “Please tell us a few words about this man—Parvatisham—his origins and background.” The answers I gave them, and the gist of what I usually tell all those who question me in this manner, are as follows. Our people say that everything is born with a destiny, or that a face is written by fate. Sometimes, just by looking at a face, you feel like planting a kiss on it. Of course, not everyone gets to do that, but at least you feel like seeing that face, or getting acquainted with the person who owns it. Some faces, on the other hand, make you want to shout; you wish you could go through your entire life without ever seeing them. In the same way, the moment you hear certain names, you are seized by an urge to know all about that person’s background and ancestry. Such a fortunate soul is our Parvatisham. His lotus-like face, its radiance, his birth star and fate—all these are his own. Otherwise,
Places and Terms in this Book
Narsapur— A town in Andhra Pradesh, India, where the narrator goes to attend school.
Edinburgh— The capital city of Scotland, mentioned as a possible place for Parvatesam to study law.
Bhimavaram— A town in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India, known for its Telugu-speaking population.
Telugu— A Dravidian language spoken in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and the cultural context of the novel.
London— The capital of England, where Parvatisham aspires to go for his barrister studies.
Madras— Now called Chennai, a major city in South India and a key location in the novel.
Vocabulary
garu— A Telugu honorific suffix used to show respect, similar to 'Mr.' or 'Sir.'
dhoti— A traditional Indian garment for men, consisting of a long piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and legs.
shawl— A piece of cloth worn loosely over the shoulders, often as part of traditional Indian attire.
verandah— A roofed, open-air porch or gallery attached to a building, common in Indian homes and schools.
ablutions— The act of washing oneself, often referring to ritual or morning cleansing in Indian culture.
landlady— A woman who owns or manages the house where the protagonist lodges.