Social Consciousness in Post-1970 Indo-English Poetry: A Critical Study

Abstract

Post-1970 Indo-English poetry represents a significant phase in the development of Indian English literature, characterized by an increasing engagement with contemporary social realities. Unlike the earlier phases of Indo-English poetry that largely emphasized nationalism, romanticism, and individual experience, poets writing after 1970 turned their attention to issues such as poverty, caste discrimination, gender inequality, political corruption, communal tensions, urban alienation, and the struggles of marginalized communities. Through their poetic expression, these writers transformed poetry into a powerful medium of social critique and cultural reflection. This paper examines the manifestation of social consciousness in the works of major post-1970 Indo-English poets including Jayanta Mahapatra, Keki N. Daruwalla, Arun Kolatkar, Kamala Das, Imtiaz Dharker, Meena Alexander, and Meena Kandasamy. It explores how these poets employ realism, irony, symbolism, and personal narratives to represent social concerns and challenge oppressive structures. The study argues that social consciousness emerges as one of the defining features of contemporary Indo-English poetry and contributes significantly to its literary and socio-cultural relevance. Through critical analysis, the paper highlights the role of poetry in fostering awareness, resistance, and social transformation in modern Indian society.