Book: The White Tiger

Aravind Adiga 2008

Aravind Adiga's "The White Tiger" is a compelling and darkly satirical exploration of India's class struggle in a rapidly globalizing world. The novel is framed as a series of letters written by the protagonist, Balram Halwai, to a visiting Chinese official. In these candid narratives, Balram recounts his transformation from an impoverished villager to a wealthy entrepreneur in Bangalore, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the disparities that characterize modern India.

Balram's story is both captivating and unsettling, as he navigates the murky waters of corruption, exploitation, and moral ambiguity. With a keen observational eye, Adiga delves into the dichotomy between India's rich and poor, illuminating the systemic forces that perpetuate inequality. Balram, the self-proclaimed "White Tiger," serves as both a charismatic guide and an unreliable narrator, challenging our perceptions of morality and success. Through sharp wit and vivid storytelling, "The White Tiger" provides a multifaceted portrait of a nation on the cusp of drastic change, inviting readers to question the true cost of ambition and the nature of freedom.