Published Paper Details:

Identity, in its essence, encompasses the unique characteristics, qualities, beliefs, and values that distinguish individuals or entities from others. It serves as a cornerstone in shaping a person's self-perception and influences their interactions with the surrounding world. Within this framework, religious identity emerges as a specific facet of one's overall identity, intimately connected to affiliation with a particular faith or belief system. This facet comprises an individual's religious convictions, rituals, principles, and the significant role religion assumes in daily life. Religious identity carries profound weight in shaping a person's worldview, behaviour, and relationships with others. In particular, religious identity often revolves around a set of beliefs concerning the nature of the divine, the purpose of life, and the moral and ethical guidelines that govern one's actions. This paper delves into the intricate interplay of religious identity, cultural diversity, and the communal tensions that frequently manifest in the close-knit chawl settings portrayed in Kiran Nagarkar's Ravan and Eddie. It explores the intricate conflicts of identity, epitomized by the complex friendship and rivalry between Ravan and Eddie, shedding light on how their religious identities exert influence over their lives. Furthermore, this paper unearths the hurdles and biases they confront due to their diverse backgrounds within multicultural and multi-religious neighbourhoods. It also offers invaluable insights into the cultural and religious dynamics at play within the chawls, as well as the characters' struggles to harmonize their identities with the ever-evolving world they inhabit.