Rolaak
By Rafaqat Hayat
ILQA Publications
ISBN: 978-969-640-288-6
670pp.

Re-imagine the story of Sophocles’ tragic play ‘Oedipus Rex’, in which the King of Thebes unwittingly kills his father, in a contemporary setting. Or let us again explore themes such as fate versus free will, the nature of knowledge, hubris, and the consequences of blindness — both literal and metaphorical — in the world-famous tale of Rustom Sohrab in Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh. Literature is full of such stories of complex and uncomfortable father and son relationships.

Rolaak, a new novel by Rafaqat Hayat that revolves around the father’s reputation as a “sex machine” and the son’s struggles to emulate his father’s success, is both intriguing and unsettling. This rivalry is the central conflict that propels the story forward. The flashback and internal monologues are of only one character, the protagonist Qadir Bux.

The novel delves into the psychological impact of this rivalry, highlighting the son’s internal turmoil as he grapples with his own insecurities and the shadow of his father’s perceived dominance. The author skilfully portrays the son’s struggle, his attempts to emulate his father’s behaviour and the ultimate futility of his efforts. The narrative is both introspective and suspenseful, keeping the reader engaged with the son’s emotional journey.

However, the novel’s focus on the father’s sexual exploits can feel excessive at times, bordering on gratuitous. While it serves to highlight the son’s envy and the stark contrast between the two characters, it also risks trivialising the complex issues of masculinity, self-esteem and familial relationships.

Winner of the Asif Farrukhi Ilm-o-Agahi Award 2024, an Urdu novel about complex family dynamics explores the edgier psychology of jealousy, envy and the search for acceptance

Qadir Bux’s world is a silent film, a black and white portrait of a fractured family. His mother, a prisoner of her own duty, a silent martyr to a life she never chose. His father, Allah Bux, a phantom, a ghost in the house he built on the foundation of his own grandiose self-image. He barks orders, his voice booming, his eyes narrowed, as if his son and wife are recalcitrant puppies, never quite meeting his expectations.

The triangle is a twisted one, a cruel geometry of neglect and longing. The mother serves as the silent pillar, bearing the weight of a broken family. Allah Bux, the elusive figure, is a shadow that casts a long, cold darkness. And Qadir Bux is the forgotten boy, trapped in a silent world, yearning for a connection that seems forever out of reach.

The author Rafaqat Hayat adeptly portrays a heartbreaking story of a father who abuses his only son and beats his wife. He continuously engages in affairs with different women, shamelessly displaying them to his son and wife. The climax of the story is when he crosses all boundaries with his son, leading the son to seek revenge.

The novel delves into the dark and complex dynamics of family relationships, showcasing the devastating consequences of abuse and betrayal, and leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. While it offers a compelling exploration of the dark side of human nature, it lacks a sense of redemption or even a glimmer of hope for our protagonist.

There is the tumultuous life of Allah Bux, a man perpetually caught in the whirlwind of fleeting romances. He effortlessly charms women, only to discard them once the novelty fades, leaving a trail of broken hearts in his wake. However, this very charm also becomes his downfall, since he uses it to manipulate and exploit those who fall for him.

While the narrative offers glimpses into the emotional turmoil of Allah Bux’s discarded lovers, the focus remains firmly on him, leaving their pain and heartbreak looking somewhat superficial. The impact of his actions on his wife are particularly frustrating. Despite her unwavering love and loyalty, she is treated as an afterthought, a mere inconvenience in his pursuit of fleeting pleasures.

Ultimately, Rolaak is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of father-son relationships and the societal pressures surrounding masculinity. While the novel’s focus on sexual conquest may not resonate with all readers, it serves as a compelling backdrop for a nuanced exploration of jealousy, envy and the search for acceptance.

The novel is based in Thatta, though the climax happens in the world famous excavation site of Makli, during the urs (death anniversary commemoration) of saint Wahab Shah Bukhari. The writer’s prose paints a vivid picture of the city, capturing the bustling markets, the chatter of street vendors, and the intricate details of the ancient architecture. He uses taste to transport the reader to the heart of the city, describing the tangy sweetness of street food, the sugar-loaded tea and the rich flavours of traditional dishes.

While the novel’s exploration of sexual desire and the complexities of father-son relationships are undeniably compelling, it also delves into the dark underbelly of religious hypocrisy, exposing the dangers of blind faith and the ease with which power can corrupt even the most devout.

One of the strong yet deeply flawed characters in the book is that of Qazi Alhaj Abdul Lateef Thathori, who wields his position to mete out justice according to his own twisted interpretation of God’s will. Beneath his façade lies a hypocritical individual, driven by a thirst for control and warped sense of righteousness. He punishes those he deems as sinners with brutal and unforgiving methods, often using his position to manipulate and exploit the vulnerable.

Rolaak is a potentially controversial read. It raises questions about societal expectations, the influence of family dynamics, and the pursuit of love and intimacy. Whether the novel resonates with you will depend on your own personal sensibilities and willingness to engage with the complexities of the characters and their relationships.

Rafaqat Hayat is a new name in Urdu fiction that has attracted the attention of readers in a short period of time. He wrote his first fiction novel in 1992, at the age of nine. Rolaak is not just a novel, it is a profound reflection on the human condition, beautifully rendered in Urdu fiction. Recently, Rolaak won the Asif Farrukhi Ilm-o-Agahi Award 2024.

The novel is recommended for readers who are interested in exploring complex family dynamics, enjoy character-driven narratives with a psychological edge, and are willing to engage with potentially sensitive subject matter. It is, however, not recommended for readers who are looking for a lighthearted or escapist read or are uncomfortable with discussions of sexual desire and intimacy. 

The reviewer writes short fiction in Urdu and is currently working on her first novel.

Published in Dawn, Books & Authors, July 21st, 2024