The Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts (1937) is the second novel by R. K. Narayan and is set in the fictional town of Malgudi. The story follows Chandran, a young college student, as he journeys through youth, education, love, and self-discovery. After completing his Bachelor of Arts degree, Chandran falls deeply in love with Malathi, but traditional family customs and horoscope mismatches prevent their marriage. Heartbroken, he wanders aimlessly and briefly adopts the life of a renunciant, reflecting his inner confusion and search for meaning. Eventually, he returns to normal life, matures emotionally, and agrees to an arranged marriage.

Through gentle humor and psychological insight, Narayan portrays the uncertainties of early adulthood and the tension between individual desires and social expectations. The novel captures the spirit of middle-class Indian life, presenting a sensitive exploration of identity, growth, and the transition from youthful idealism to responsible maturity.