Published Paper Details:

Abstract: This paper examines the role of multilingualism in the short stories of R. K. Narayan, with special reference to how language is used to express Indian culture, society, and identity. Although Narayan writes in English, his stories are deeply influenced by the multilingual environment of India. He skillfully blends English with Indian words, expressions, idioms, and culturally rooted speech patterns to reflect the natural way Indians communicate in their everyday lives. This study explores Narayan's use of techniques such as code-mixing, Indianized English, indirect speech, and culturally specific dialogue to create realistic characters and authentic social settings. Through a close reading of selected short stories such as An Astrologer's Day, The Martyr, and Under the Banyan Tree, the paper analyzes how language functions not merely as a medium of communication but as a cultural and social tool. Narayan's characters use language to express respect, authority, intimacy, belief, and tradition, reflecting Indian conversational norms and values. The study also highlights how characters shift between formal and informal modes of speech depending on context, audience, and social position, revealing the influence of both indigenous traditions and colonial power structures on language use. The paper argues that Narayan's use of multilingualism adds depth, realism, and cultural richness to his narratives while maintaining clarity and simplicity. The study concludes that Narayan's multilingual approach significantly contributes to Indian English literature by preserving cultural diversity and allowing Indian voices to speak authentically through the English language. Total Words: 281