கரிசல்

by பொன்னீலன்

கரிசல் மக்களின் பழைய மரபு வழிபட்ட வாழ்க்கையின் அற்பத்தனமான அடிமை வாழ்க்கையைப் படிப்பவர் வெறுக்கும்படியாகவும், தம் வாழ்க்கையின் உண்மை நிலையுணர்ந்து, ‘மனிதன்’ என்ற சிறப்புக்கேற்ற வாழ்க்கையைத் தாம் பெறுவதற்குத் தடையாயுள்ள காரணங்களை உணர்ந்து, தன்னம்பிக்கை பெற்றுப் போராடும் ஒரு சமூக வர்க்கப்படையாக உருவாகும் ஏழை எளிய மக்களின் போராட்டங்களை நாம் வரவேற்கும்படியாகவும் நாவல் நம் மனதில் சித்திரங்களை எழுப்புகிறது.
நா. வானமாமலை

440 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1976

About the author

பொன்னீலன் (1940) தமிழில் நாவல்களும் கதைகளும் எழுதிவரும் எழுத்தாளர். இடதுசாரிப் பார்வை கொண்டவர். தமிழ்நாடு கலையிலக்கியப் பெருமன்றத்தின் தலைவராக இருந்தவர். பள்ளி ஆசிரியராகப் பணியாற்றி ஓய்வுபெற்றார். முற்போக்கு இலக்கியம் மற்றும் சோஷலிச யதார்த்தவாதம் சார்ந்த கோட்பாட்டு நூல்களையும் எழுதியிருக்கிறார்.

Reviews

[Jainand Gurjar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book: Black Soil
Author: Ponneelan
Translator: J. Priyadarshini
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: Penguin Hamish Hamilton
Pages: 420

Agriculture, being the primary sector of the Indian economy, and the leading one after Independence for decades, plays a crucial role in not only the economy but social, political, and cultural practices as well. And getting to know more about the historical events makes us closer to them and the country. And "Black Soil" is one such book.

Black Soil was a debut book originally written in Tamil and was released in 1976 as "Karisal" by Ponneelan, a Sahitya Akademy Winning author for Tamil in 1994, and was based on "incidents similar to the Keezhvenmani massacre that happened in 1968" as written by J. Priyadarshini in Translator's note is a book that marks a deep impact.

When Kannappan is posted as a teacher in Perumalpuram, a village in Tamil Nadu, he was shocked initially. The region of black soil and the condition of the people there affected him deeply, especially the impact of Master- the landlord on everyone. And he wants to bring a change there. But at what conditions? Read the book to know more.

This is not only the story of the people of Karisal but of Karisal itself. The bonds between the people of the place, the adversities, and problems they face, how education plays a crucial role, the situation of women in the society at that time, now the farmer's unity can bring a change and as the book says on the first page, it is "The story of the black soil turning red", and no other words can describe it better than this.

The characters of Master, Kannappan, Veerayyan, Mookayi, and Ponni play a significant role, but who intrigued me the most was Veeramma and I would have loved to know more about her.

Although the story was a little dragged, making it difficult to be thoroughly attached to it. I would have appreciated it if a character list would have been given. Also, I wished to witness more of the relationship dynamics between the characters and more about them and their history as well.

This is a book with a strong theme, topic, and content and can be read for its significance. I’ll give it 3/5 stars.

I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Shreemanti · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Black Soil" by Ponneelan is a poignant and gripping exploration of the struggles faced by farmers in rural Tamil Nadu during the early 20th century.

The story revolves around Kannappan, a young schoolteacher who finds himself thrust into the harsh realities of life for the impoverished farmers in a remote village. The depiction of their exploitation by a ruthless landlord is both heartbreaking and infuriating. Kannappan's journey from passive observer to an advocate for justice is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the oppressed.

Ponneelan's writing is exquisite. His prose is lyrical, evoking vivid imagery of the natural beauty of Tamil Nadu while juxtaposing it with the starkness of the farmers' lives. The descriptions transport you to the fields, the villages, and the bustling marketplaces, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and smells of the era.

But what truly sets "Black Soil" apart is its unwavering message of hope. Despite the immense hardships they face, the farmers never lose sight of their dreams for a better life. Their resilience, unity, and unwavering determination to fight for their rights is inspiring and humbling. Ponneelan deftly captures their unwavering spirit, leaving the reader with a sense of awe and admiration.

This novel urges us to examine the systems of power and oppression that perpetuate social inequality and prompts us to stand in solidarity with those who are fighting for justice.

"Black Soil" is a must-read for anyone interested in social justice, historical fiction, or Indian literature. It is a reminder of the power of literature to ignite empathy, evoke change, and inspire us to strive for a more just and equitable world.

In conclusion, "Black Soil" is an extraordinary novel that captivates with its evocative prose, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the resilience of marginalized communities, and the power of hope. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking a powerful and transformative reading experience.

[Kumar Ayush]

It was quite an interesting and fun read. Felt like I am reading a Tamil equivalent for Godan.

[Mili Das · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slowly slowly I became a part of Karisal village... This book will stay with you forever... It will be glued to your brain ... The author narrates this story with heart and love ... Dialogue is very crispy and easy...It's a huge novel but it's so engaging and I couldn't feel its length... This is the book you wouldn't want to finish because you are already a part of these people... You started living with them, you will start laughing and crying with them.
This is so fantastic. Every line is like an incantation.

This is a story of Kannapan, a school teacher who posted in karisal village school. The village lies in the black soil region of Tamil Nadu where the river Tamirabarani flows. At first he was shocked by seeing the mundane village life but slowly he became a part of them. He made them realize how they are being exploited by the powerful, sadist, landlord-the master. The farmers find an ally in Kannappan.


The nuances of Indian village life in panoramic view, and the metaphorical narrative creates more intensity which helps to develop a beautiful bonding between readers and the characters.

You perfectly conveyed the essence, the feeling.. please translate more.

[Vani · Rating 3 out of 5]

~ it was all good, until… ~

Black Soil, originally 'Karisal' written in Tamil by Sahitya Akademi Awardee Ponneelan and translated into English by @priyaponneelan

It follows a school teacher Kannappan, newly posted to a secluded village Perumalpuram in the black soil region of Tamil Nadu. As Kannappan finds his ways to know and settle in the place, he observes the piteous state of Villagers and poverty they live in. He sees that they are being exploited by the mighty landlord, Master. In ways he could, he tries to make the villagers to see a better way of life and fight back for the atrocities they are put through by the Master.

The book is based on the Kilvenmani/ Keezhvenmani Massacre in which a group of around 44 people, families of striking Dalit Village labourers were murdered by a gang led by their landlords in 1968. This book makes you look at the oppression faced by landless labour and the working class by the hand of those in position of power. Author sets up an atmospheric view of the village for us as readers to feel what the villagers are going through in their daily lives.The story also stands tall on depiction of human relationships. Be it Kannappan's friendship with a local farmer Veerayyan or his his unadulterated love for Ponni.

I appreciate it's translator for keeping in some Tamil words as is and not some anglicised version of it. I feel that makes the translation more authentic to its source material and even enriches our view for a culture and region we're not aware about much.

Where everything does seem to go good for this book, the facet I felt it lacked was its writing. I did not find it engaging enough despite my interest in its plot. When I started the book, I had my hopes soaring. By the end, I just wanted to get over with. If not anything else, the book could have used a crisper edit.

[Ishika Hirani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black soil by ponneelan translated by her grand daughter priyadharshini is an emotional and heart warming read that dives into the footsteps of the life of farmers living in the village of perumalpuram. The book revolves around the story of Kannapan; a school teacher appointed at the karisal village. After entering the village kannapan gets to realize the problems faced by villagers due to lack of poor adminstration by the heads of the village. He understands that people living in the village are facing some critical issues like inadequate food, poor eduactional facilities, child marriage and most importantly pressure to work as farmers under Insufficient wages.

The book involves several different characters weaving their own stories and adding much more significance to the whole narrative. Ponni, mukaya, ramasammy, veeraayan and master were all important parts of the overall experience of karisal story. one of the best part of the book was the gripping narration and the realistic yet heart touching pain faced by the poor farmers of the village. Priyadarshini has done a great job in translating such a powerful story in an crystal clear manner that adds life to the Fictional world of perumalpuram.

In a nutshell, Unity, emotions, power, believe and love is what defines this beautiful book. Black soil is a masterpiece that will hook you to the captivating world of karisal. The book surely diginifes the purpose of how one can face most toughest of situations by coming togther and fighting for there rights by destroying the evil forces. Writing style of author is gripping yet impactful and one can easily imagine the whole narrative because of realistic story telling. Hence, This book is a must read for everyone. Highly reccomended.

[The_D'S_bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

➡️ What's the last book that made you emotional or made your heart ache ? 

👣 Black Soil" by Ponneelan which is a read that warms my heart but at the same time wrenches my heart to witness the harsh realities of the world.

👣 Where we are in our comfort world there are some people out there, including farmers who are facing injustice.

👣 The book revolves around a village named Perulampuram near Tamil Nadu around the black soil.

👣 Black soil which is naturally productive and fertile.

👣 A school teacher named Kannappan joined the village as the new teacher in the school where school and schooling has zero value and the school structure is just 4 walls.

👣 As the story follows, slowly each layer of reality unfolds in front of your eyes and you will realise how harsh and struggling a situation people from village faces.

👣 Kannappan, despite being an outsider, empathizes with people and helps them in all their crises as much as he can and that really warm my heart.

👣 Reading the harsh realities literally made me disgusted and wrenched my heart. 

👣 However, the rage I felt towards the master of the village is at an extreme point and the painful thing is that there are people like masters in real lives too.

👣 With shading lights on poverty, water problems, poor education, as well as on child abuse, child marriage and many things that need to be addressed.

👣 I love how the author posts out reality with complete honesty and sincerely.

👣 A must-read - that connects you to the core. 

[Cha0tic Soul · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Black Soil" by Ponneelan is a powerful and compelling novel that delves into the harsh realities faced by farmers in the village of Perumalpuram, situated in the black soil region of Tamil Nadu. The story follows Kannappan, a new schoolteacher who witnesses the brutal treatment of farmers at the hands of the sadistic landlord known as the Master.

Through his genuine empathy and compassionate conversations with the villagers, Kannappan becomes an ally and advocate for their cause. The novel sheds light on the prevalent issues of child marriage and the disturbing practice of marrying young boys to older women as a form of control and exploitation.

Ponneelan's writing is both poignant and thought-provoking, effectively portraying the struggles and sacrifices endured by the farmers in their fight against oppression. The author's skillful storytelling exposes the human cost and societal consequences of striving for a better future.

"Black Soil" is a significant and timely novel that brings attention to the plight of marginalized communities and the need for social change. The translation captures the essence of the original work, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their struggles.

[Dr.Naveen Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the translation of acclaimed tamil novel Karisal written by sahitya academy award winner for tamil , Ponnelan and. published in 1976.It is loosely based on incidents similar to keezhvenmani massacre that happed in 1968 in Nagapattinam district
It is the story of Karisal , the black soil region of Tamilnadu in 52 chapters.It describes the way of the life of peasants and labourers of the region , their oppression which continued even after independence .
Based in the late 60s, it narrates the story through its protagonist Kannappan , the schoolteacher who is an outsider in the village.Slowly he realises the brutality inflicted upon villagers by the all powerful landlord and becomes a ray of hope and rallying point for them.It also brings to fore scourge of mismatched marriages where young lads are married to older woman and noone bats an eye .
The story is wriiten about the events about 50 years back and many of us may feel a bit disconnect with it.Howevrr ,the powerful narration of farmers coming together to fight for justice as women become a strong voice in the struggle keeps one hooked till the last..

[Shree · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Black Soil" by Priyadarshini Ponnelan.Author Ponneelan's Karisal has been translated by his granddaughter. A heartwarming read after a long time.

The story is about the people of Perumalpuram, situated in the black soil region of Tamil Nadu. In the village, Kannappan has been posted as a school teacher. He understands the harsh realities of the villagers like child marriage, poverty, school and education issues, and other injustices faced by the people of Karisal.

Even though Kannappan was a newcomer to the village, he helped the people.I loved the characters and their bonding.

A heart-touching read and I liked the way the author wrote the truths and realities of the world. The farmers' struggles have been incredibly explained.

The writing style was too good and the language was lucid.
An emotional read and I
still have the impact of this book.

The storytelling was phenomenal and it's a must-read.

I recommend everyone to give it a read at least once.

[Annamalai Swamy · Rating 5 out of 5]

கரிசல் - பொன்னீலன்:
பெருமாள்புறம் என்னும் கரிசல் கிராமத்து மக்களின் வாழ்க்கையே இந்த நாவல். அந்த ஊருக்கு வரும் கண்ணப்பன் என்ற ஆசிரியர் பார்வையில் இந்த கதை ஆரம்பிக்கிறது.

அந்த ஊரில் இருந்த நில பிரபுத்துவ முதலாளி ஊர் மக்களை கிட்ட தட்ட அடிமையா நடத்துவதும், அந்த ஊரில் நிலவும் நம்ப முடியாத வழக்கங்களும், கண்ணப்பனை ஆச்சர்யமும் அதிர்ச்சியும் ஆக்குகிறது. அந்த ஊரில் இருக்கும் வீரய்யனுடன் அந்த ஊர் மக்களுக்கு விழிப்புணர்வு ஏற்படுத்தி அந்த மக்களை இந்த அடக்குமுறைகளுக்கு எதிராக போராட்ட வைக்கிறார். இதனால் அவர் மற்றும் இந்த ஊர் மக்கள் சந்திக்கும் சோதனைகளே இந்த நாவல்.

இந்த நாவலின் வரும் கண்ணப்பன், வீரையன், பட்டாளத்துக்காரர், பொன்னி, வீரம்மா, முதலாளி என்று மறக்க இயலாத கதை மாந்தர்கள்.

[Sukaina Majeed · Rating 4 out of 5]

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