Diasporic Experience: Celebration of Hybrid Identity in Manjushree Thapa's Seasons of Flight

Abstract

This study examines the portrayal of diasporic experiences in Manjushree Thapa’s novel Seasons of Flight, focusing on how it celebrates the creation of hybrid identities. The central issue is the emotional and cultural dislocation experienced by diasporic individuals, a compelling subject in our increasingly interconnected world. The hypothesis posits that Thapa’s narrative not only reflects the struggles of displacement but also highlights the resilience and adaptability that lead to the formation of new, hybrid identities. Using Homi K. Bhabha’s concept of ambivalent man and theory of cultural hybridity and Salman Rushdie’s ideas on the fluidity of diasporic identities, this study explores how characters navigate their cultural and emotional landscapes. Findings reveal that Thapa effectively portrays the dynamic process of identity formation, emphasizing the celebratory aspects of hybrid identities. This analysis offers a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between identity and adaptation, highlighting the transformative potential within the diasporic experience. Key Words: Diaspora, Identity, Culture, Ambivalence, Hybridity, Experience, Complexities, Celebration