Ranjit Lal’s The Crow Chronicles

Penguin Publications

Year of publication: 1996

Type: Paperback

Colonial rule, one would expect, is long over in most nations. However, the harsh reality is that independence has often been achieved only at a political level. Instead of true liberation, many countries now grapple with internal tyranny. Literary theories such as postcolonialism refer to this phenomenon as neocolonialism—a system that, while no longer relying on direct political control, still exerts dominance and hegemony over nations that once suffered under colonial rule. Most postcolonial countries continue to experience this lingering effect.

A brilliant satirical take on this neocolonial mentality can be found in Ranjit Lal’s novel, The Crow Chronicles. An avid bird watcher and nature enthusiast, Lal uses the common crow as a powerful metaphor for the political power struggles that plague many nations. The story serves as an allegory for Indian society, with the megalomaniacal white crow, Shri Katarnak Kala Kaloota Kawa Kaw-Kaw, symbolizing the corruption, manipulation, and deceit entrenched in political systems. His white feathers subtly highlight the deep-rooted slave mentality in India—where fair skin has historically been associated with superiority.

Born in Bombay (now Mumbai), Kala Kaloota migrates to Keoladeo National Park to establish his authoritarian rule over its crow population. Through this allegory, the novel explores how minorities are often subjugated by dominant forces. Much like Orwell’s Animal Farm, which critiques totalitarianism and communism, The Crow Chronicles serves as a biting commentary on monarchy. Lal demonstrates how unchecked monarchy can be just as oppressive, curtailing both individual and collective freedoms.

Structure and Characters

The novel is divided into four parts with a total of 37 chapters:

Part 1 (4 chapters) introduces the setting of Keoladeo Park, its various characters—including Achanak, Doodhraj Tandoori Totaji (the weak prime minister), Pinky Stink Tainted Storkji, and the Royal Highness Badshah. This section also immerses readers in the Festival of Birds, showcasing the beauty of the avian world.

Part 2 (7 chapters) takes place in Mumbai, depicting Kala Kaloota’s birth and his rise to power through ruthless psychological tactics. One memorable moment describes how he brainwashes his followers:
“Within days, the group had been completely shattered psychologically. They were reduced to a shaking mass of feathers who could do nothing without Kaw’s permission… They obeyed him blindly.” (Pg 70)

Kaw builds his empire by eliminating enemies, recruiting loyal followers like Craven Raven, and molding an army obsessed with greed and control. His rise culminates in a dramatic plundering of a party at Willingdon Sports Club in Mahalaxmi. Meanwhile, ornithologists from the Bombay Natural Society take notice of Kaw, leading to a tense chase as he narrowly escapes their clutches. Faced with a precarious existence in Mumbai, Kaw eventually relocates to Keoladeo.

Part 3 (10 chapters) and Part 4 (15 chapters) chronicle Kaw’s domination of Keoladeo. Here, he enters an arranged marriage with Kumari Surmasundari Kalibundi, a poignant reflection on marital traditions that prioritize lineage over love. Surmasundari, trapped in a loveless relationship, is valued only for her ability to produce offspring. Meanwhile, Kaw strengthens his grip on Keoladeo, making political alliances with Budhboo Bundicoot (chief of intelligence), Lt. Gen Chakumar Jungli Billi (the feral tomcat and chief of security), and others. He ousts the army, consolidates power, and enters an illicit relationship with Ms. Gulabhi Nakhone, growing increasingly infatuated with her.

The Revolution

The final section highlights the resistance movement against Kaw, led by Aachanak the hawk and Ghughuji the owl. They are joined by Phutki the tailorbird, Titri the red-wattled lapwing, Phuljari the white-breasted kingfisher, and the daring duo Koylas. Together, they plot a revolution against tyranny. Lal’s portrayal of their struggle is both witty and thought-provoking, using animal behavior to expose political realities that would put any totalitarian government to shame.

This novel is a must-read for any Indian, offering a unique and humorous take on governance, oppression, and societal hierarchy. Its clever use of satire and allegory makes it an eye-opening exploration of political power.