Cosmopolitanism and Multiculturalism in Vikram Seth’s An Equal Music and A Suitable Boy

Abstract

Cosmopolitanism and multiculturalism takes the center stage in the postcolonial studies  which reflects the complexities of identity, cultural hybridity, and globalization. This paper explores how Vikram Seth’s novels An Equal Music and A Suitable Boy portray cosmopolitan identities and multicultural interactions. Through a close reading of these works, the study examines the representation of cultural fluidity, the role of music as a transcultural medium, and the impact of postcolonial histories on both individual and collective identities. An Equal Music highlights the universality of music as a bridge between cultures, while A Suitable Boy captures the tensions and harmonies within India's diverse society. The research article further investigates how Seth’s narratives negotiate the intersections of tradition and modernity, East and West, and local and global influences. Ultimately, the paper argues that Seth’s works provide a nuanced perspective on cosmopolitanism, emphasizing both its liberating potential and the inherent struggles present in contemporary multicultural societies.