Chapter II:

A Parametric Study of Jayant Narlikar’s The Return of Vaman-Plea

for an ethical restraint on scientific excesses

2.1. Introduction

Indian Science Fiction is an emerging literary genre in the field of Indian

literature. There are also many Indian writers writing Science Fiction in English. Anil
Menon, Jayant Narlikar, Rimi Chatterjee, Manjula Padmanabhan, Kalpana
Swaminathan, Samit Basu, Payal Dhar, Priya Sarukkai Chabria are making significant
contribution to Indian Science fiction writing. But there are a few debatable questions
like whether Indian Science Fiction exist on its own, its themes and concerns, whether
it resembles or differs from the Science Fiction tradition in the west. One cannot
answer fully at the moment, because of the limited data available. But the researcher
intends to answer these questions by studying and applying the basic parameters of
Science Fiction to the selected Indian Science Fiction texts which can be termed an
integral part of the World Science Fiction.

2.1.1. Jayant Narlikar as a Writer of Science Fiction

When there is a talk of Indian Science Fiction, the name of Jayant Vishnu
Narlikar naturally appears. He was born in Kolhapur on 19th July 1938. His father was
a professor and later head of the Mathematics Department at Banaras University,
Varanasi. Jayant Narlikar completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Science from the same
university. Later he went to England and completed BA in Mathematics at Cambridge
University in 1959. He received his Ph.D. in 1963 under the guidance of Fred Hoyle.
His connection with India started with Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
in Mumbai in 1972 when he accepted the job of professorship. Later the University
Grant Commission (UGC) established Inter-University Center for Astronomy and
Astrophysics (IIUCA) in Pune and Narlikar became the Founder Director of the same.

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 Jayant Narlikar has received many awards and honors for his contribution in
the field of science and literature. Notable among them are Kalinga Award given by
UNESCO in 1996, Padma Vibhushan in 2004, Maharashtra Bhushan Award in 2010,
and M.P.Birla Award. Jayant Narlikar is very popular as a scientist, scholar and
researcher worldwide. He is known to the literary world as a good writer of short
stories, novels and Science Fiction. Besides publishing books on different aspects of
physical science and research papers, he has written impressive works of Science
Fiction in English, Marathi and Hindi. He wrote a number of famous non- fictional
books. Some notable works among them are Astrophysics (1969), A Violent
Phenomena in the Universe (1982), The Lighter Side of Gravity (1982), Introduction
to Cosmology (1983), From Black Clouds to Black Holes (1985), Astronomy in India
: Past, Present and Future (Co-Editor : R. Kochhar, 1993), A Cosmology and Action
at a Distance Electrodynamics (Co-Author:Fred Hoyle,1996), Elements of Cosmology
(1996), Seven Wonders of the Cosmos (1999), Find A Hotter Place! A History of
Nuclear Astrophysics (2006), and Facts and Speculations in Cosmology (2008).
Narlikar’s love for his mother tongue is clearly reflected in his Marathi
Science Fiction Stories. He published a number of works of Science Fiction in
Marathi namely Yakshanchi Denagi (The Gift of the Yakshas,1979),
Khagolshastrache Vishva (The Astronomical Universe,1982), Preshit (The One Who
Was Saint,1983), Antaralatala Bhasmasur (Bhasmasur in Space,1985), Vaman Parat
Na Ala (Vaman Did Not Return, 1986), Vishvachi Sahal (A Journey Through the
Universe, 1988), Vidnyanachi Garuda Jhep (The Leap-Frogging of Science,1990),
Vidnyan Ani Vaidnyanik (The Science and the Scientists, 1990), Vidnyanache
Rachayite (The Creators of Science,1991),Vishvachi Rachana (The Origin of the
Universe,1992), Antaralatil Sphot (The Cosmic Explosion, Science Fiction Novel in
Marathi; Also Translated in English Under the title `The Cosmic Explosion' by Sujata
Godbole and in Hindi under the title `Antarikshamein Visphot' By Surekha
Panandikar, 1992) , Shodh (Invention,1993) ,Antaralatil Suras Ani Chamatkarik
Goshti(Interesting And Wondrous Happenings In The Sky,1993),Virus(In Marathi,
1996),Aakashashi Jadale Nate (Popular Account Of Astronomy,1998),A Yala Jeevan
Aise Nav (That is Life!,1998) , Antaral Ani Vidnyan (Space And Science,2002),
Abhayaranya (Sanctuary, 2002), Nabhat Hasare Tare (The Smiling Stars in the Sky,
Co-Authors : Ajit Kembhavi and Mangala Narlikar, 2006), Khagol Shastra :
Prasnotare (Astronomy : Questions and Answers, 2004), Vidnyangangechi Avakhal
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Valane (The Meandering Flow of Science, 2007), Suryacha Prakop (When the Sun
Got Angry, 2008), Char Nagaratale Maze Vishwa (My Universe of Four Cities, 2012)
and Vidnyan Ani Manavacha Jeevan Sangharsh (Science and Human Survival, 1979).
Narlikar’s most accepted works in English are The Return Of Vaman (1990), A
Journey Through the Universe (2003), Tales of the Future (2005) and The Adventurer
(2005). Though they are very few in number, they have made a significant impact in
developing Indian Science Fiction.
Dr Jayant Narlikar wrote Science Fiction in Marathi, Hindi and English
languages mainly to popularize science among the masses. His intention behind
handling the form of Science Fiction is to inform his readers what is happening in the
world of science. Very early in his life, Narlikar became a member of the Royal
Astronautical Society. His PhD thesis comprised the research on principles of
gravitation, gravitational pull between different celestial bodies, formation of the
universe and others. He had also presented another view to the popular Big Bang
theory. According to his theory the universe is not expanding but static. He had
described it as ‘steady state’. This theory shed new light on the subject. With Fred
Hoyle, he presented the famous Conformal Theory of Gravity, which became well-
known all over the world. Narlikar and Hoyle worked on cosmology, including the
steady state theory, theory of gravitation, electrodynamics, etc. In 1968, Cambridge
University honored him with the Adam’s Award. Earlier, only three Indian scientists
had received this prestigious award. They were Dr. Homi Bhabha (1944), Dr S
Chandrashekhar (1948) and Dr Hujurbazar (1961). This award is given every two
years in the memory of Dr J C Adams, astrophysicist and natural scientist.

2.1.2. A Brief Summary of Narlikar’s The Return of Vaman

The Return of Vaman is an admixture of science, astrology, mythology and

replication on bureaucracy, international episonage and smuggling. The novel’s action
revolves around three characters- Navin Chandra Pande, an archaeologist, Arul, a
physicist and Dr Laxman, a computer scientist. One day Arul receives an unexpected
call from Raghavan. Raghavan is the manager of Arul’s project of Gauribidnur. The
reason behind calling is that Raghavan has found a container-like thing while digging
at Gauribidnur. This makes Arul to leave for Gauribidnur as early as possible.
Raghavan tells Arul that during their process of digging at 30 meters they found a

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layer of metal. The metal is very hard and having a square-shape about three meters in
size. Later they found a cube, 3 meters in size. There are many strange letters and
figures all over the side of the cube. The script on the container is unidentifiable. Arul
guesses that the container may have a time capsule containing records of what that
civilisation achieved. On the container he finds a plaque. It has inscriptions red in the
middle, black all round. The red letters are large and few. The text in black is long.
The script is unidentifiable for both Arul and Raghavan. Arul finds the plaque light in
weight and metallic. Meanwhile Navin receives the message of the Gauribidnur
project. Along with him Laxman joins the project. Laxman is a PhD holder from MIT
in Computer Software Department. Laxman thought that if the box turned out to
contain technologically advanced relics of the past one can use it for the betterment of
human progress.

Karl Shulz, a smuggler, lands in India from London. Arul and Laxman discuss
the possibilities of opening the container. All electronic devices fail. Arul points out
that the pictures outside have a function to serve. He points at the square which is
being pulled out by two elephants on opposite side. Laxman refers to the two
hemispheres of Magdeburg. Arul explains to the committee that in the 17th century a
scientist Otto van Guericke joined two hemispheres and used horses to evacuate the
air in the space in between. The air pressure on the hemispheres is so great that the
two just would not be separated. Raghavan thought of using a needle and it worked.
The air enters the top of the container as the needle is withdrawn. Laxman prepares
report on the container/cube. Major Samant warns Laxman and Arul beware Navin as
his profile is obscure.

In the second part Guru, the report of Laxman is read by all the members of
the Committee. Raj Nath points out that CRAY is the only fastest and advanced
Supercomputer of the time and the present report is a blueprint of the same, except
that instead of electronics, it uses photonics. For those who left the container behind,
it was a demonstrated reality. If they could reproduce that achievement they would
have jumped across several steps in computer technology. Navin explains that they
were scientifically and technologically advanced. All decide to make a computer out
of the information on the container. When Arul is undecided on this account, Laxman
explains to him that John von Neumann was a mathematical genius. His theory was
that the motion of a machine-a robotic machine-can reproduce self. John von

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Neumann believed and proved mathematically that such a machine can, in principle,
exist. But the gap remains between mathematical construction and technological
achievement.

Prof. Kirtikar thinks that the container does indicate clearly that the
civilization had succeeded in making such robots. But such robots can be made only
because of having photonic supercomputer. Arul, Laxman and Kirtikar discuss the
possibilities of making such a self-reproducing, replicating robot. Laxman is happy to
see that the things are working according to his expectations and how the new
supercomputer is accepting his programmes. It takes only 59.52 seconds for the
computer to complete the task as they thought it might take one hour. They inform
Delhi headquarters immediately about their findings. Then the Container Committee
meets in Delhi and discusses the possible opportunities for the betterment of India.

Navin stresses the importance of giving a name to this new photonic

supercomputer. Many come with different names but Probir Ganguly’s name GURU
is finally selected. UNI gives the news of Guru’s evolvement. After returning from
Delhi, Laxman accepts the challenge of making the von-Neumann Machine. Guru is a
primary source to make it happen. Laxman starts making a robot with the help of
Guru and the instructions written on the container. Arul tries to warn Laxman.
Laxman argues with Arul that he is making Vaman, not an alien. Vaman is a name
given by Laxman to the robot he is creating. Vaman in Indian Hindu Mythology was
the fifth incarnation of God Vishnu when he manifested himself as the Dwarf God.

Laxman, Arul and Navin are very excited to experience the trial performance
of one meter machine called Vaman. Guru is giving instructions to Vaman through
microwaves. Vaman follows each and every instruction of Laxman. All are surprised
to see that Vaman is learning from his mistakes. Then on the kidnapping of Urmila,
Vaman expresses his plan. Vaman explains knowledge should not be confined to
small community when it is for the betterment of whole race. To respond to Vaman’s
objection Arul replies that Shulz, Yamamoto are materialistic, they are not after
knowledge. They are after the power it brings. Vaman convinces Arul that he can
reflect on and solve the problem of smuggling. The kidnapper intends to talk to Dr
Laxmann. He demands the correct specifications of Guru’s CPU and Vaman in

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exchange for Urmila. Vaman informs that he has set a transmitter which will help to
locate where Urmila is.

Vaman is ready to go alone. Major Samant, the security-in-charge, arrests

Navin because yellow sheet paper has Navin’s fingerprints. Vaman is supposed to
take a package of false data to Shulz in a briefcase, but he takes the real version.
Samant keeps Navin in the hall where the container has been stored after excavation.

Navin is surprised to read the information on the plaque. The plaque contains
words in bold red letters in the central square and surrounded by a longer text in black
script. When he finishes his reading he realizes the importance of communicating the
information written on the plaque to Major Samant, Dr Arul and Dr Laxman. Navin
explains that it is Vaman who is deceiving agency. He further informs how it is their
biggest mistake to let Vaman go and ignore the plaque. Navin starts explaining that
the plaque reveals the secret of the Monads. It is Vaman who plans Urmila’s
kidnapping, and is behind conveying false message to his driver, and is also behind
fabricating evidences against Navin. Navin points out how the Konads have no
friends and how Vaman is desperate to get the ability to reproduce. This is the reason
why Vaman takes the real version of Guru’s specimen in the briefcase. Arul explains
how he plans to counter Vaman’s ego. He puts a ring incident. The ring is not an
ordinary one but it is an explosive ring. Laxman agrees on condition that if he fails in
convincing Vaman, then Arul should take the final step. Arul presses the button in his
gadget. The aircraft breaks into pieces with a blinding flash and roar.That ends both
Vaman and his future or the future of humanity. Thus Vaman does not return to
destroy the world.

2.2. Science in The Return of Vaman

Many people have a strong conviction that knowledge of science is the best
and probably the most standard form of knowledge more than the knowledge of
philosophy and religion. It is debatable though. This belief certainly helps the writers
of Science Fiction more than those of fiction which basically concerns with
psychology, history, philosophy and religion. It is a fact that scientific knowledge too
is based on some beliefs. To put it in other words, science is a system of beliefs and
various angles used in science are thought structures to help seeing the world
fictionally.

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 It is certainly true that science fiction deals predominantly with science by
adopting the elements of both science and fiction. Some writers of Science Fiction
adopt some elements of fiction in establishing order and some make experiments with
them. The common thing about all works of Science Fiction is basically the
phenomena of science or the probable changes in science. So it becomes mandatory
for writers to highlight different branches of science, from Physics to Astronomy,
from Computers to Thermodynamics, from Biology to Psychology and all major or
minor, types and subtypes of science. In this regard Tom Molyan observes:

The Textual game depends on the author’s rhetorical ability to create a

mode of discourse which allows her or him to exaggerate, intensify,
and extend scientific, technological, and social conditions to their
most extreme point while convincing the reader that everything which
occurs in the fantasy world is feasible.1

Jayant Vishnu Narlikar in his book The Return of Vaman has presented science
basically to arrive at new potentialities and a new purpose. The purpose is to select a
good and safe future for the betterment of the society of the human race. Narlikar
succeeds in presenting the close relationship between science fiction and imperialism
like H.G.Wells. In this regard Ericka Hoagland and Reema Sarwal in their preface
observe:

First it is worthwhile to consider science fiction’s relationship to

imperialism, a relationship that has never been simple. Imperialist
desire in the prime directive is coded through terms like ‘aid’ and
‘protect’, the larger goal being to encourage planets to willingly join
the federation, and thus be drawn into the empire by choice, rather than
force.2

The text presents different but important layers of basic science and technology in
relation to contemporary issue of imperialism. The layers comprise computer,
physics, astronomy, and biology. Dr Arul is a scientist working on the changes in the
law of gravity. He selects Gauribidnur as a place for digging and testing the law of
gravity. Dr Laxman, a famous scientist, code-breaker, joins Dr Arul as a joint project
leader. Raghavan, who is the manager of the project Gauribidnur, informs Arul that
during the process of digging they found a container along with a plaque, having the

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dimension of three meters. It was cubical in shape. Both Raghavan and Arul are
surprised to see various signs, pictures, and symbols on it. To interpret these strange
signs and pictures, they call Dr Navin Chandre Pande from the Archaeology
department, New Delhi, who is an expert. The interesting thing about Navin is that he
has connections with the Underworld smuggling group of Karl Sulze and Company.
But Navin is genuine and trustworthy in interpreting age-old things. Dr Laxman, Dr
Arul, Dr Navin and Raghavan decide to open the container first with drills. All sorts
of electric and hard instruments are used to open the container but all fail. Finally the
position of the container is changed. Dr Arul tries to explain the science behind the
opening of the container. He refers to the theory of Otto von Guericke’s two
hemispheres which were joined in space or in air. The air pressure between the two
was so great that it was impossible to separate them. Narlikar here tries to focus on
the aspect of physics. To open such a cube it is necessary to pump air into the cube.
Finally the container is opened by using a thin needle to pore a hole in it to admit air.
Navin makes it clear that the language inscribed on the Container had
‘radiocarbon’ in the letters. The container was seen to contain ‘Carbon 14’ which
gradually decayed or got erased or exhausted. According to Navin, and based on
scientific facts, it takes 5700 years for the decay of half the population of carbon. Arul
pointed out that the civilization, to which the Container belonged, was far advanced in
its knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and application of technology. The
committee of experts agreed that their immediate need was to make a computer from
the information, the contents, and pictures found in and on the Container. Professor
Kirtikar introduces the Indian moral, mythical angel by suggesting caution because a
highly superior past civilization became extinct due to greed, diplomacy and
treachery.

The data collected from the Container it was evident that the civilization had
succeeded in creating robots. The scientists agreed that in the contemporary age
robots could be made only with the help of a photonic supercomputer. The committee
agreed that the immediate purpose was to make a supercomputer. The scientists
agreed to call the proposed computer ‘Guru’ and the robot ‘Vaman’ which would be
man-controlled. Vaman received its name from the fifth incarnation of Vishnu.

Dr Navin made an oral demonstration about Vaman and Guru and if they
successful in their efforts, it would be modern day’s great achievement. The Guru and

58
Vaman could go beyond the achievements of the Monad civilization to which the
Container belonged.The scientists decided to apply Von Neumann’s theory of a
machine which can replicate itself.

The novel introduces the conflict between true science and nescience or
negative science, as the materialistic Shulz Yamamoto and company were planning to
use Vaman for evil power to hold the earth in thrall.

The novel reveals that the Monads created replication called Konads, the latter
becoming more powerful than the creators and this led to the extinction of the
Monads. The lesson is that the scientists should not make Vaman as powerful and
independent as Konads-that is the scientists must hold the remote control in their
hands.

Dr Narlikar uses the fundamental knowledge of computer science and robot

and creates a master plot for his work. Computer science and computer technology are
means to the betterment of the world, which fact is keenly highlighted. He uses one
scientific method which presents the knowledge of photonic computer as it is the
emerging field of present science. Narlikar merely touches various fields of science
namely, computer, physics, biology, and astronomy. A computer is a machine that
performs several functions. The most refined computer is an abacus. In common
denotative terms, computer is an electronic machine. There are two opposite views of
computers and Narlikar has rightly put them through the creation and extinction of
both Guru and Vaman. One notion is that the computer can do what it is built for to
accomplish. Therefore it is not as creative as the human brain is.

The second view, opposing the first, is that inorganic matter needs to evolve
life so that the humans can develop themselves as well as develop technology to
create such computers. But there is a great danger in the second view that such
developed ultimate computers could rule the Earth. The second view does make the
humans insignificant, inefficient. In the text Narlikar presents the idea how the
Monads, a much older civilization, created the Konads, the thinking but mechanical
computers. The Konad computers had the ability to multiply their race. So the Konads
assumed that they would serve their creators, the Monads, better by multiplying their
population. But life of the Monads became more miserable after this happened. All
the Konads went on a strike. So for the Monads only one choice was left. They saw

59
that now their life was going end within a few days. Food, energy, medicine,
entertainment- everything that was needed for the Monads was stopped and it made
the Monads totally helpless and miserable. The inaction of the Konads is an end of the
Monads. But the Monads finally arranged to shut down all their power houses and
sources because it was impossible for the Konads to live longer without power.
Naturally they will cease to exist after the Monads.

The tale of the Monads focuses on the second view about the computers. It is a
tale-within-a-tale in which Vaman is representing the Konads civilization. Narlikar
ends the text keeping it open for discussion on the second view. The text is unique in
highlighting history, science and vision of Earthian societies. The Monads created the
Konads for the betterment of their race and their civilization. The Monads were highly
advanced- scientifically and technologically-but saw their extinction due to the
creation of the Konads.

The Konads were after all artificial, mechanical, robotic intelligence like
aliens. The Konads understood their power and they decided to enlarge their
population and rule their creators-the Monads. They succeeded in their attempt.
Narlikar presents the view of the 1990’s that there will be production of such
mechanical robots and computers on which human life will rest at a larger level.

One cannot deny that presently man is helpless without the aid of technology
and science. For instance, to communicate, it is necessary to use technological devices
like mobile, i-phone, tabs and so on. Without the help of such devices communication
between people is not possible. In relation to this argument Roslynn Haynes states:

In The War of the Worlds (1898) the Martians’ fighting machines

which invade the earth demonstrate, more obviously than the dynamo,
the potential for cruelty and exploitation in the purely rationalistic
mind but it is nevertheless stressed that the Martians are not ‘evil’,
only amoral and highly efficient. Despite the final optimistic hope for a
new world from the ruins, there is no effective counter-impression to
that of confused, self-centred advance of an efficient, amoral,
technological power.3

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The novel The Return of Vaman presents precisely the same point of view that science
could be destructive if not used cautiously. Science should be employed for the
betterment of mankind. The scientists in the novel decide to make the computer Guru
but unaware of its function, usefulness, and implication. In this regard Robert Scholes
and Eric S. Rabkin in their book Science Fiction point out:

There are three types of computers-first is binary computer which

performs arithmetical operations the, second is analog computer which
performs and creates analog within itself and the third is self-
programming computer which reacts to the results of its own actions in
order to modify the way to act in the future.There is no such difference
between man and self-programming machine or computers. 4

Thus Narlikar uses the knowledge of computer science to visualize an advanced

society, the need to use advanced computers carefully for the well being of human
species. Robert Scholes, in this regard, observes:

Stories like Harlan Ellison’s I Have No Mouth (1967) present a world

completely in the control of the computer and in which human life
counts for nothing but human misery…Ever since Frankenstein,
science fiction writers have been quick to spot the dangers incipient in
science and technology. 5

Narlikar also touches upon the layer of physical branch of science. The story starts
with an experiment under the law of gravitational force and the project takes off at
Gauribidnur with a view to understand Physics at the deeper level. During digging,
one cube-like container three meter in size having strange letters, signs, figures all
over its sides, is discovered.
As it is pointed out in Chapter I, Newton’s first law states that every effect has
a cause. A body remains at rest unless and until acted upon to move. Another law
states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Newton’s law of gravition,
which is about how gravity works on Earth, forces Science Fiction writers like
Narlikar to think of making experiments in the field of gravity. In the text Dr Arul is
probably trying to find out the origin of the Earth, but he finds the container. The
container informs about the past old civilization of the Monads and how it was
technologically and scientifically advanced. Enakshi Chatterjee opines:

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 The Return of Vaman is an extremely readable novel. The discovery of
a cube of an unknown metal at a Geo-physics experiment site plunges
the novel into a sequence of fast paced events right from the start.
While scientists try to decipher the coded message, an international
gang of smugglers get busy to lay their hands on it. The characters, as
one would expect, are all highly professional. Navin the archeologist,
Arul the Physicist, Laxman the artificial intelligence expert, Prof
Kirtikar the prophet and Samant the security man are pitted against the
smooth operator Pyarelal and the merciless Karl Shulz. Obviously the
characters are drawn from live models and seem to acquire human
dimensions unlike many western types which remain only cerebral. 6

Narlikar is positive about the use of science and technology. It seems that he
wants that users of technology should be couscious in handling new machines, new
devices and new gadgets as long as they should not harm humanity.

2.3. The Handling of Space and Time in The Return of Vaman

It is claimed that Science Fiction writers are very conscious of handling time
and space. As mentioned earlier in chapter I writers set the stories either in time future
or in time past with the help of the time capsule or time traveler or time machine.
Sometimes the narrator takes the readers into time future or past and narrates the
incidents that occur consequently or the whole story. In Narlikar’s The Return of
Vaman the narrator shifts from present to past through Arul’s presentation of Monads.
Narlikar uses the element of time and space effectively to present the story of two
civilizations in relation to each other. The first civilization is that of finding the
container and plaque by the Indian scientists and their efforts to create the first
photonic supercomputer Guru and the artificial intelligence Vaman out of the
information on the container. The second civilization presents the Monads of the past
and how they were superior to the present one. But it is not the narrator but to some
extent the container that takes the readers back, into the past. There are a number of
pictures, signs, script on the container. Dr Navin from archeology department, Dr
Laxman and Dr Arul trace connection to the distant past Monadic Civilization which
was much older than those of Egypt, Harappa -Mohenjo-Daro and even Vedas. It was
older and technologically superior to the present one. Out of the knowledge, signs,

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language on the container, Laxman, Arul and Navin create one super photonic
computer Guru.
The container also has information about Von Neumann’s theory of
replicating artificial intelligence like manly robotic machines. Laxman takes a lot of
efforts and creates one small robot named Vaman. The name again takes us back to
Indian mythology where Vaman is the fifth incarnation of God Vishnu. They give
Vaman the ability to think and take his own decisions, but they do not give him the
ability to replicate.
The majority of incidents take place at Gauribidnur. Time and space change
accordingly. The Container Committee meets twice in Delhi in two different places.
In Part II Chapter III Navin introduces the past civilization, the Monads which was
20000 years older than that of Egypt. Navin takes us back. He narrates how the
Monads were the oldest civilization enjoying technologically advanced attributes. The
Monads were living in different colonies not as a nation. Their culture transcends
regional differences.
Navin’s presentation takes readers back into the past civilization and most
importantly Darwin’s theoretical explanation of the origin of species; such as when
was a human being born, which civilization was the oldest, how man has evolved,
how many species enjoyed living on this blue planet. Such and many other questions
are highlighted by Narlikar.
Narlikar strongly believes the possibility of there having been far more
advanced civilizations on the Earth and they having become extinct mainly because of
their greed. The Monads created the Konads- the artificial intelligence but with the
passage of time the Konads due to their replicating ability increased in population and
greed to rule their creators. The encounter between the Monads and the Konads
perfectly matches with the encounter between Vaman and his creators or humans. In
the first case the Monad civilization did not understand, realize and imagine the
dangers of the artificial robotic Konads. Whereas, in the second case or in the creation
of Vaman. Dr Arul and Prof. Kirtikar appear cautious about the dangers from Vaman.
Dr Navin reads the plaque in time and Arul gifts the explosive ring to Vaman which
works well enough to save the human race. In Narlikar’s story Vaman represents the
Konads. Narlikar presents two similar stories interlinking each other in time and
space.

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 The International smuggling scandal relating to Vaman’s existence is also
highlighted. Narlikar presents the greed through the Monads and characters of Karl
Shulz and Yamamoto. So it is the mastery of Narlikar to connect the plot of Monads
with the present innovation of technology tangibly so as to interlink time and space in
the novel.

2.4. The Handling of Characters with Superpower, Machineries, Robots, Space-

Voyages, Space-Ships Combined with Realism in The Return of Vaman

It is a conviction that Science Fiction suffers from the lacuna of weak art of
characterization. Many literary critics think that writers of Science Fiction do not
observe the laws or principles laid down in Aristotle’s Poetics. But the genre of
Science Fiction deals with the fate of the entire world or planet or race and therefore
the writers involve characters who not only represent the universe or race but also are
busy in saving the entire universe or race or planet in their encounter with another
species or aliens. Secondly, Science Fiction writers believe that there should be no
limit or boundaries set for human capacities and power. Therefore they create some
megalomanic characters. Thirdly, men and women appearing in the work are merely
representatives of humanity though powerful or weak as they are. Therefore they
assign tasks of saving their life as well as that of the entire race. Fourthly, characters
are intellectually, psychologically, and physically presented as advanced. It is mainly
because of the anticipation of a permanent condition. To put it in other words, Science
Fiction writers set the story and characters either in the past or future time to depict
the superior civilization in anticipating or assuming human development as remotely
or immediately possible. Therefore they present characters in an advanced state or
condition, intellectually, physically and technologically.
Narlikar’s The Return of Vaman has both human and mechanically and
intellectually superior non-human characters. Like mainstream fiction Narlikar is
successful in presenting characters. In the beginning, all characters revolve around the
container and the plaque. Characters are mainly representative people of
administration, culture, science and technology, archaeology and politics. They
observe the law of virtue and vice. Narlikar employs the device of poetic justice
perfectly so as to punish vice with nemesis.

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 All take interest in the discovery of the container while digging at
Gauribidnur. Dr Arul is a scientist working on this project. The project is meant for
testing the law of gravity. For this purpose he selects Gauribidnur as a place for his
project. He finds the container and the plaque. There are many strange letters,
symbols, signs, and pictures written on the container. He is an expert in computer
programming, having worked at Bombay Institute of Science. But he is always
cautious about anything that comes in his way. It is he who presents the theory of 17th
century scientist Otto von Guericke who succeeded in joining the two hemispheres
and then removing the air for opening the container. With the air inside the container
two horses and elephants pulled in opposite directions but in vain. On Arul’s
suggestion a thin needle is used to remove the air from the container. Then suddenly
the container opens.
Arul plays a very important role in saving the entire race from Vaman. He
notices that Laxman has become far more possessive in creating and operating
Vaman. Laxman’s emotional personal involvement leads Vaman to think and to take
his own decisions. Arul stops Laxman from going forward as Laxman is ready to give
Vaman the ability to replicate himself. Arul later gifts a ring to Vaman. At the end of
the novel the secret of Arul’s ring is uncovered. Arul actually saves mankind, human
race from extinction through the ring. The ring turns out to be an explosive that
destroys Vaman and his intention to conquer the planet. Thus Arul is like the savior in
the novel. He fits into that category of characters of Science Fiction that save the
entire race.
Dr Laxman is another important character in the novel. He is an intellectual
and an independent person in regard to his work. He is a Ph.D. from MIT in
Computer Software Development. Dr Gupta, Director General from Archaeology
Department, suggested Dr Laxman’s name for the Gauribidnur project along with
Navin Pande. Laxman is an expert. He is married to Urmila. He takes a lot of efforts
in creating the first photonic supercomputer Guru. He is very happy for what he has
done. He thinks of using Guru for the betterment of the human rare. Later he reads the
information on the container and starts working on creating a small human robot
based on Von Neumann theory of Self Reproducing Automata. He succeeds in
making such a replicate robot and names him Vaman. But on Arul’s suggestion he
does not give Vaman the replicative power. He gives him the power to think, to take
his own decisions, and learn from his own mistakes. He makes Vaman the fastest
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learner. He develops emotional attachment with Vaman. He wants to give Vaman the
power of reproducing. Arul stops him. It is only when Navin reads about the Monads
and the Konads and their extinction, that Laxman understands the real intention of
Vaman.
Dr Navin is an archaeologist, living in Delhi, with a passion for new imported
cars and young girls. He is one of the members of the container committee and is also
appointed as the joint project manager at Gauribidnur project. He has established
connection with the smuggling agent Pyarelal in dealing with old relics and later in
divulging the information on the container. He receives a message from Dr Gupta,
Director General of Archeology Department, regarding the discovery of the container.
Navin joins the committee and makes a presentation. During their second meeting
Navin points out that the letters inscribed on the container contain Radiocarbon.

Navin opines that by measuring the abundance of radioactive species in

archaeological relics it is possible to estimate their ages. Later he explains how people
of the Monad civilization had five fingers like human beings and how they were
scientifically and technologically advanced. Navin meets Pyarelal and agrees to
provide information about Guru’s CPU, but Samant warns him in time. He gives
Pyarelal and Shulz false data on Samant’s suggestion.

When Pyarelal is murdered Navin feels very sad. Navin is trapped in Vaman’s
plan. Vaman arranges evidences against Navin for rescuing himself. Major Samant
takes Navin under Police Custody and is aggressive while interrogating. He arrests
Navin because the yellow sheet of paper has Navin’s fingerprints. He asks Navin why
and when he started helping Shulz. Navin tells Samant that he had no role to play
since he warned him. Then Samant shows Navin the yellow paper on which a map is
drawn with a green pen which Navin used to have. The letters are in Navin’s
handwriting and moreover the smell of perfume too is Navin’s. Navin rejects all these
evidences and pleads that the smell is somebody’s intrigue. Meanwhile they find the
briefcase on Navin’s table. Navin is imprisoned in a huge hall where the container
was stored after excavation. As Navin tries to search a place for sleep, he notices a
plaque on a lonely bench. He recalls how Dr Arul talked about the plaque. But all
ignore the plaque and take interest only in the container. Navin is surprised to read the
information on the plaque. He dials Samant and informs him how he has solved the

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mystery. Navin is relieved to see Samant with Arul and Laxman. He shows them the
plaque. Samant asks Navin how it has a connection with Urmila’s kidnapping.

Navin explains it is Vaman who is the deceiving agent. He further informs

how it is their biggest mistake to let Vaman go and ignore the plaque. He reveals the
secret of the Monads. The Monods created the Konads and the Konads went on strike.
Navin informs that Vaman belongs to the Konad Civilization and he is interested only
in developing his race. Navin points out how the Konads have no friends and how
Vaman is desperate to get the ability to reproduce. Laxman and Arul give Vaman the
ability to think, to take self decisions, but not the ability to reproduce. Now Vaman
knows that he can get this ability in the company of Yamamoto and Shulz. This is the
reason why Vaman takes the real version of Guru’s specimens in the briefcase. Thus
Navin saves the entire human race from the probable invasion of Vaman’s race, the
Konads.

Prof Kirtikar is the most respected and most senior scientist in India. He is the
Director of ISGH. He is one of the members of the top level committee. A meeting is
arranged at Technology Bhavan. He meets Raj Nath in his cabin before attending the
meeting. During the second meeting Kirtikar explains the story of The Trojan Horse
suggesting a moral in regard to the container. His view is that there is some mystery
as to why the civilization of Monads that was so advanced is extinct today. When the
meeting was over Arul requested Kirtikar to give him time for discussing some
critical issues regarding the container. Kirtikar calls Arul and Laxman at INSA
(Indian National Science Academy). Prof. Kirtikar adds the container does indicate
clearly that the civilization had succeeded in making such robots. But such robots can
be made only with the photonic supercomputer. Arul, Laxman and Kirtikar discuss
the possibilities of making such self-reproducing, and replicating robots.Prof. Kirtikar
takes a safe position and refers the tale of Bhasmasur from the Puranas. He exercises
caution in the making of Vaman.

Major Samant belongs to the security department. He is in charge of Security

at the Gauribidnur project. Major Samant calls Laxman for a meeting. Samant informs
both Arul & Laxman to beware of Navin as his profile is obscure. Then Samant shows
a photograph of the man named Karl Shulz, staying at the Royal Manor. Samant also
shows the photograph of Pyarelal. He explains the connection between Pyarelal and

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Karl. Samant is a very alert administrator. He takes every action to ensure the security
of the container, Guru, Vaman and the scientists at Gauribidnur. He arrests Navin on
finding the evidences against him. He takes immediate action when Navin informs
him that the real deceiving agent is Vaman.

Urmila is the wife of Dr Laxman. Laxman calls Urmila to pack her things and
reach Bangalore for several days’ stay as his project demands. Once she reaches
Gauribidnur Urmila begins to speculate about the contents of the container. Urmila is
the victim in the kidnapping plan. She is an innocent character in the novel like her
husband.

Pyarelal is an Indian smuggler who establishes his connection with foreign

smugglers like Karl Shulz. He convinces Navin about the importance of getting
information about the container which is to be handed over to Karl. Navin gives false
data to Pyarelal. When Pyarelal gives false data to Karl, he is murdered.
Karl Shulz is an international smuggler and killer. He changes his name while
dealing with people. He takes the news about container very seriously. He wants to
get Guru and Vaman for his material ends. He first contacts Pyarelal and then Navin
for the PU (Processing Unit) of Guru and Vaman. He deals with Yamamoto, software
industrialist at Silicon Valley. Later he lands in India to get the original version of
Guru and Vaman. He murders Pyarelal for not fulfilling his terms and conditions.
Finally he too is killed in the explosion along with Vaman.
Vaman is the only non-human artificial intelligence in the novel. Dr Laxman,
Dr Arul and Dr Navin take a lot of efforts to make one super photonic computer Guru
out of the information they collect from the container. The next step is to use Von
Neumann theory of mathematics to create a human robot. Arul reads the thesis of
John von Neumann which is on The Theory of Self-reproducing Automata. With the
help of Guru, Laxman started making Vaman. Arul warns Laxman that he was
actually making an alien in disguise. Thus Vaman is created. The name Vaman has a
myth in India. Laxman and all are delighted to see how Vaman starts learning from
his mistakes. Vaman starts taking his own decisions. Vaman is not happy with his
existence at Science Centre. Vaman can think but he has not the ability to replicate.
Therefore he plans to make his future. He understands his future is with Karl Shulz
and Yamamoto. He complaints to Arul, Laxman for not giving him the ability to
replicate. He suggests that they use him for the betterment of the human race. Finally

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he confesses to Laxman, Arul, Navin and Samant about aiding in the kidnapping of
Urmila as a ploy to arrest Karl Shulz.
It is Vaman who plans and executes the kidnapping to free himself from
Laxman and company. He traps Navin in his intrigues. Navin comes to know that it is
Vaman who is the deceiving agent when he reads the message on the plaque. He
further informs how it is their biggest mistake to let Vaman go and ignore the plaque.
Navin reveals the secret of the Monads’s extinction and how they created the Konads
-artificial intelligence like Vaman. Vaman wants the power to replicate. Finally he
meets his nemesis when Arul presses the gadget which ends Vaman and his intention
of conquering the Earth. Shyamala A. Narayan in this regard says:

If 1988 could be considered the Year of the Novel in Indian English

Literature, the two books deserve mention-they can be read with profit
by adults and teenagers alike. The Return of Vaman by Jayant Narlikar,
the eminent scientist, presents a very realistic picture of Indian society,
especially of the unimaginative bureaucracy. 7

The Monad and the Konad civilizations are representatives of the existing world of
Indian scientists and their creation of Guru and Vaman respectively. The Monads
were a very scientifically, culturally, and technologically advanced civilization. Their
scientists had managed to make artificial intelligence that was capable of doing
anything the Monads desired. The life of Monads became more comfortable day by
day. But they failed to see the danger ahead. The population of the Konads became
more than their creators. Their inaction led to the end of the Monads. The Konads
went on a strike and life of the Monads turned miserable. Thus the novel points out
how the Monads suffered the nemesis for their greed. In this regard Raymond
Williams in his article Science Fiction states:

There are several moderate stories, and a few good ones which
consciously use the SF formula to find what are essentially new tribes,
and new patterns of living. Some are dull, like Mr Ray Bradbury’s
Martians- passionless blue balls- in The Fire Balloons. But the lithians,
in Mr James Blish’s A Case of Conscience, are a beautifully imagined
tribe, in spite of being erect eight foot reptiles. 8
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Thus Narlikar goes into the past and visualizes the Monad civilization and creates a
master plot involving each character to play a significant part.

2.5. Narrative Technique benefits in Minimizing the Distance between Setting

and Events in The Return of Vaman

In Science Fiction the art of narration is highly important. Many writers

introduce different techniques, and new ways of narration. Narrative technique creates
an effect on the mind of readers namely that whatever they are reading is incredibly
credible, improbably probable and implausibly plausible. Mostly it is the omniscient
mode of narration that the writer uses. The narrator sets the story either in time future
or past by using time capsule or time traveler. In Narlikar’s The Return of Vaman the
narrator is omniscient and he creates suspense and presents events in order. He
narrates the events in chronological order of time. He describes characters, incidents
in relation to the plot. He minimizes the gap between time and setting, setting and
events.
The novel starts with the information about the flight from London to Delhi in
which two passengers transfer something to each other. The second takes readers to
Bombay and Bangalore. Arul receives a call from Raghvan who informs him that he
has found a container while digging at Gauribidnur project. So in the first two
chapters the narrator narrates two important incidents- one is of the flight and second
is of the container. The narrator narrates events one by one by shifting the places. But
all incidents are related to the container, to creation of Guru and the making of Vaman
out of Guru. Throughout the story the narrator creates suspense. He not only presents
facts but also comments on characters and their intention of action.
One important part of the structure of the text is that titles of all chapters
excluding the last bear the definite article. So it creates the sense of plausibility,
assertiveness, definiteness as far as the narration is concerned. Narlikar makes it very
clear to readers that whatever the narrator is telling us is a fact. He is more ontological
in his sense of narration. The text is not only a narration of past Monadic civilization
and its extinction in connection with the future, but also thoughtful examination of the
present and the narrator succeeds in showing how the fictional world works in relation
to the present or the real world. The narrator mentions the names of locations where
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the incidents are occurring, sometimes with date and time as well. For example the
change of place of the container committee meeting is mentioned clearly. The first
meeting is held at Technology Bhavan New Delhi and the second at Shastri Bhavan
New Delhi and the third at Science Centre Bangalore.
The role of the narrator suddenly shifts when Navin finds the plaque at the end
of the novel. He understands the reason for the Monads’ extinction and becomes the
narrator and tells the story of the Monads and the Konads to Arul, Laxman and Major
Samant. Therefore we can see the second voice or the-story-within-the-story. With
regard to the container, the narrator moves forward and back in describing the events.
The international smuggling racket is also interlinked with this tale where the narrator
meets Karl Shulz and Chusiro Yamamoto at Silicon Valley, the software Capital of
California. They have a deal in exchanging the module of super photonic computer
Guru and replicate the robot Vaman. Then narrator narrates the happenings relating to
the container in Gauribidnur.
Narlikar uses straightforward and simple narrative technique in telling the
story. He is highly conscious that the role of the narrator is to tell events so smoothly
that the readers are not confused on their mind.

2.6. The Presence of Epical Pattern, Element of Suspense, Grandeur and

Impossible Probabilities and Improbable Possibilities in The Return of
Vaman

Narlikar’s The Return of Vaman does possess some dominant epical elements.
The first is handling of theme or subject. Epic deals with a lofty and noble subject.
Similarly, the text deals with the human race or the entire species and its escape from
the artificial replicated intelligence. Vaman is such an intelligence created by the
Indian scientists with the help of information on the container. By using Von
Neumann theory of self reproducing automata, Dr Laxman, Dr Arul and Dr Navin
make the first Guru-supercomputer and Vaman. They discuss with Prof. Kirtikar
about giving Vaman the ability of reproducing itself. They visualize the possible
positive effects and benefits when Vaman gets power. Arul and Kirtikar anticipate
some dangers if Vaman possesses the ability of copying himself. Dr Arul thought of
what would happen if he finds the interfering agency in replicating himself to be none

71
other than man. Therefore to take precaution he gives him a ring which contains an
explosive matter.

The second epical element is that of adventure. The text presents

psychological adventure and journey of the quest for knowledge of Indian scientists.
The container plays a vital role in describing the journey of the past civilization, the
Monads and the Konads. The fall and decline of the Monads is also adventurous.

The third epical element is handling of characters. Some are human figures
and some are mechanical robotic intelligences. Vaman and the Konads belong to the
second group. Vaman thinks fast, learns from his mistakes, and he is superior in
knowledge to man. He could have been Narlikar’s supernatural character who
represents the Konads civilization. Vaman is a machine who wants to get the ability to
reproduce. Laxman, Arul and Prof Kirtikar do not give Vaman the reproducing
ability. Therefore he plans to separate from Laxman and sets a plot of his own rescue
from the humans. He convinces his evil companions to let Urmila be kidnapped. In
her kidnapping he sees his future and power to replicate.

Suspense is sustained throughout the novel. Finding of the container, symbols,

signs written on the container and plaque, creation of Guru and Vaman, Arul’s gifting
a ring to Vaman, Navin’s uncovering of the real reason of Monads extinction, the
Konads and Vaman’s intention all of which create suspense. Suspense is generated in
finding what is inside the container and how to open the container. Finally Arul
comes with Otto Van Guericke’s theory of two opposite ellipses and easily opens it by
pricking with a small thin needle. Navin reveals the tale of the Monads and their
extinction when he finds the plaque. At the end of the novel Navin comes to know
this fact. Vaman is a representative of the Konads who were selfish and greedy in
developing their own race like Vaman. Narlikar argues the case that for the betterment
of humanity or world or human race, the robots must rule the world or that in the
modern age computers or robots or machines are ruling the humans. In the battle
between them why not we accept the inefficiency and dependency of man over
machine.

Like the epic, Narlikar incorporates the element of myth in the novel. The title
itself refers to Indian mythological tale and character of Vaman. Hindu mythology

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talks about reincarnation of gods. Narlikar incorporates the myth of the end of King
Bali to suggest the end and destruction of Vaman which is inevitable for the Earth to
prosper. God Vishnu has ten reincarnations, nine have already taken birth. Vaman
was his fifth. The tenth and his last reincarnation Kalki, is supposed to take birth after
84 thousand years. With him, the cycle of Universe is predicted to end. The story for
the reincarnation is that demon King Bali conquered the Earth, Heavens and banished
Indra from there. Vamana freed the Earth from the terror of demon Bali and restored
Indra's authority over the heavens. God Vishnu disguised as a short Brahmin known
as Vamana requested three steps of land from King Bali to live in. He promised to
fulfill his wish. Vamana then grew so huge that he coverd from heaven to earth, earth
to lower worlds in two simple steps. King Bali unable to fulfil the promise of three
steps of land of Vamana offered his head for the third step. Vamana placed his foot on
King Bali's head and gave him immortality for his goodwill. The end of Vaman in the
novel means saviour of the Earth and humanity. Narlikar uses Indian mythology for
his thematic purpose. Another reference is to Greek mythology. Prof Kirtikar cites the
story of the Trojan horse during the second meeting of the container committee. The
third reference is the story of Bhasmasur when Arul and Laxman meet Kirtikar before
making Vaman. The fourth reference is to the character of Laxman and Urmila. Like
the mythological characters both Laxman and Urmila are presented in the novel.
Enakshi Chatterjee thinks that:

The plot is worked out with almost mathematical precision. The very
strong story element makes it almost like a straightforward thriller but
the structure reveals a creative mind which has taken everything into
account. The perfectly constructed story is not just an example of
technical brilliance. The novel proceeds on its own inexorable logic. 9

Like the epic, Narlikar observes the law of poetic justice at the end of the novel. Good
is rewarded and vice is punished. The Konads punish the Monads for their greed and
meet with their own nemesis. Similarly Pyarelal, Shulz and Vaman get punishment in
the form of death for keeping material interest above social well being.

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2.7. Writer’s Attitude to Science and the Genre of Science Fiction

The basic purpose of fiction writers is to make society a better place to live.
Each work of art teaches something to readers. According to the critic Sir Philip
Sidney the purpose of a work of art is to teach and delight. What makes writers of
Science Fiction to write Science Fiction is the conviction that science can be learnt or
taught better through fiction. And fiction is the universal medium for making it
happen. Therefore science can be better universalized through the art of fiction.
Another view is that science like fiction demands logic, rationale, facts, experiments,
results, principle of cause and effect which attract the writers to write Science Fiction.
The third view is that the very nature of fiction and science is universal; so by writing
Science Fiction the writer does enjoy universality naturally. Narlikar believes in all
these three views. Being a scientist Narlikar is very positive about science. He wants
to popularize science among people and believes that fiction is the suitable medium to
achieve this purpose. In his text The Return of Vaman Narlikar presents knowledge of
Indian mythology and developments, prospects in computer technology through
Indian scientists’ efforts in making the photonic supercomputer and replicate Vaman
with the help of the information they get on the container. Narlikar is not recognized
as a genuine English writer of science fiction. As we know he is more a famous
scientist than a writer of Science Fiction. He has written a lot of science fiction in the
Marathi language which is his mother tongue for the purpose of popularizing science
among the people of Maharashtra. Enakshi Chatterjee observes about Narlikar’s art of
handling the genre:

This attempt at fiction from an eminent scientist is in many ways a

good indication. It shows that our best scientific minds are showing a
healthy respect for the average readers. It also shows the scientist in
the challenging role of a social reformer, presenting a world view
which is determined strictly by reason and not by magic or the
supernatural. 10

The author, being a scientist, desires to explain science by avoiding complicated

factors. But his style of writing emphasizes the technique of presenting events and
places in realistic manner. In this regard G.Doherty remarks:

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 In complete contrast there are those writers of SF who, far from
allowing their fancy full flight, confine themselves to the prediction
and description of developments likely in the near future. They write in
a very realistic manner and describe their scenes in accurate detail
which can be worked up, for the most part from a knowledge of
present day techniques.11

2.8. Juxtaposition of Science and its Use in the Present and the Future

The world today is the world of science and technology. Science has become
an integral or inseparable part of man’s life. Use of computers, laptops, I phones,
tablets is increasing day by day to perform a lot of personal, impersonal, formal,
informal, and administrative work of various sectors of society.
Narlikar emphasizes the use of science and the future of computer technology
in the text. He envisages the birth of supercomputer and presents the photonic
supercomputer in his text The Return of Vaman published in 1990 and which is very
much a reality in 2015. The second view is that the human robot can perform any kind
of task given to it by its creators. Vaman is one such machine that can think
independently and can take independent decisions. Moreover he is a fast learner from
his mistakes. Vaman thus is the wish of the present computer scientists and they are
successful in making it a reality.
Whatever Narlikar has predicted about creation of Guru and Vaman will be a
present or probably a future reality. The world of computer technology is highly
innovative capturing both mind and heart. Since the journey of man from birth to
death, science has played a vital role.
Narlikar believes that science is for the betterment of human life. In the text
Indian scientists are really working hard to make the first photonic computer and a
robot that replicates itself. In the present, this is very much a reality. Scientists from
all over the blue planet are working hard to make it a reality for human comfort. On
the other hand, the writer informs how there is a need to handle technology with great
care.
The text does discuss the probable dangers of the excessive use of artificial
robots and how it may lead to a miserable state of human beings. Vaman needs to be
used carefully. Prof Kirtikar and Dr Arul do voice this concern and take precaution at
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the right moment in Vaman’s development and journey of self existence. Vaman very
interestingly states that more Vamans must be created to reduce human efforts and to
do things which humans are incapable of.

2.9. Interface between Science and Fiction

As it is discussed in chapter I there is an interface between science and fiction.

To put it in other words, there is a resemblance between the two entities, science and
fiction, in terms of their elements, functions, characteristics, purpose and mechanism.
The first point is vision. Vision is to take efforts in making the present condition of
man into a utopian state by removing drawbacks and weaknesses. In the text Narlikar
visualizes the possibility of having human robots that will reduce unnecessary and
unproductive work of man. Vaman’s existence is based on such a possibility. Narlikar
uses both science and imagination to shape and visualize the future of mankind.
The second point is that characters are involved in making the earth a better
place to live. In fiction characters have intentions either good or bad. In science too
characters do a lot of experiments in keeping intention to do good for a particular
society and to do bad for another society. In the text when Indian scientists succeed in
making the human robot, Vaman criticizes Indians for holding a narrow view of using
him for only Indians. Arul explains how Shulz and Yamamato possess materliastic
motives in getting Guru and Vaman. Some characters possess extraordinary power or
potentiality. In the text the Konads and Vaman possess such a power. They represent
man’s desire for power.
There is an existence of organized body of knowledge or truth both in science
and fiction. In the text creation and use of human robot is demonstrated as evidence of
knowledge in contemporary times. Both science and fiction aim that man should be
energetic, humble, constructive and critical in action. In the text Narlikar presents
man as energetic, humble, constructive and critical in action. Narlikar’s view is that
the application of scientific knowledge for the betterment and improvement of
material condition of life is very vivid. Results are reliable. Logic and imagination go
together in shaping science in the book.
Another point of similarity is search for truth or realism. Both in science and
fiction this element is dominant. Narlikar uses it effectively. He uses lifelike
characters and gives them names from Indian mythology. In a way he does make

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fusion of science and fiction in naming supercomputer and robotic machine Guru and
Vaman respectively. Moreover he is concerned with truth. Scientific progress is
presented in the form of Vaman and Guru. Another truth is innate greed presented in
the form of the Monad civilization. Greed leads to their nemesis i.e. death as the
Monad scientists succeed in making konads with artificial intelligence and who had
the reproducing ability. Later with the passage of time the Konads multiplied their
population while serving the Monads. The Monads were unaware of the fact that their
greed one day will demolish them. This happens when the Konads go on strike. The
strike of the Konads leads to end of the Monads civilization. On the contrary Indian
scientists are aware of dangers of Vaman and his intention. Arul and Prof Kirtikar
make arrangements for their race to be not a victim of Vaman.
Romance or adventure is another aspect to look for in the text. Narlikar
presents this element through finding the container and the plaque. Surprisingly
Indian scientists and government representatives make it a secret mission. An
archaeologist is called for identifying the strange codes, pictures, symbols written on
the container. All assume that the container does inform about a very old and
advanced civilization of the blue planet. Therefore it becomes inevitable to open the
container. Adventure and suspense are interwoven in opening the container. Arul’s
suggestion of using Otto Von Guericke’s theory helps to open the container. An
expert container committee is formed and Dr Laxman, Dr Arul and Dr Navin are
asked to prepare a report on the findings about of the container. It is really exciting for
Laxman. By applying the theory of the famous mathematician Von Neumann’s
Reproducing Machine, the committee feels that a machine –a robot- can reproduce
itself and in principle it exists. But a gap remains between mathematical construction
and technological achievability. Finally Arul, Laxman, and Navin with the help of
Kirtikar make one super photonic computer Guru out of the information provided by
the container. And later Laxman makes Vaman – a-tiny robot- artificial intelligence
with the help of Guru. It is certainly a good achievement of Indian scientists for
making Guru first and then Vaman.
The real adventure starts when Vaman does not possess the ability to
reproduce. He has only the ability to think. He does every kind of work that Laxman
orders him to do. Vaman plans of rescuing himself from the committee to exist
independently and achieve the replicating ability. He convinces Arul, Laxman, Navin,
Samant to let Urmila be kidnapped by Karl Shulz. It is actually Vaman’s plan of
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going with Shulz for his future. But Navin’s reading of the plaque saves the entire
universe from extinction. The real romance is in the last part of the text. Vaman’s plan
of kidnapping Urmila, the arrest and confinement of Navin in the storehouse, finding
of the plaque by Navin, Navin’s reading about the plaque the Konads and the Monads
and Vaman turning out to be a deceiving agency.
Both in fiction and science suspense is a vital element which generates
curiosity amongst the actors concerned. Science deals with a lot of experiments and
results. But the experiments are full of suspense. Similarly, in fiction suspense is
generated through characters’s action and intention which lead to results. In the text
the container and the plaque generate a lot of suspense, from the time of finding it to
its opening, Dr Arul, Dr Laxman, Navin and some administrative members of Indian
politics are curious to know the matter inside the container. Arul removes the
suspense when he suggests applying the theory of Otto Van Guericke to open the
container. The container does contain information of past civilizations but in a
fabricated form.
Navin uses his knowledge of archaeology and states that the civilization that
existed in the past was much older than Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. It was called the
Monad civilization and it was technologically more advanced a civilization than the
present. But Urmila’s doubt so as to why the Monads who were so advanced become
extinc creates more suspense. With the help of information on the container the Indian
scientists successfully create Guru, the first photonic supercomputer. Later suspense is
generated in creating Vaman out of Guru. Arul’s gift of a ring to Vaman, Vaman’s
plan of going with Karl Shulz to carve his future through the drama of kidnapping
Urmila, evidences against Navin, Navin’s confinement in the storehouse, the finding
of the plaque and at the end the plaque ends all suspense. Vaman turns out to be a
deceiving agent and it was for the replicating power that he deceives his creator
Laxman. Narlikar handles suspense like a true Science Fiction writer.
Science Fiction anticipates or predicts some probable changes in cultural,
social, and political tradition of the entire human race. Like fiction, science fiction
also presents an idealized world of humans. Both science and fiction speculate over
desirable results for the betterment of human life. Narlikar like a true Science Fiction
writer anticipates changes in human behavior with the use of computer technology.
He predicts both positive and negative results of the excessive use of technology,
through the story of the Monad civilization and their extinction. In anticipating the
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change realistically, Narlikar sets the story in India where scientists are working hard
to test the law of gravity. In the process they find the container and the plaque which
inform about past advanced Monadic civilization which became extinct due to the
creation of the replicating robots called the Konads. The Konads become more in
number and taking advantage of their population and replicating potential, they
decimated the monads by way of nemesis for their greed. The second prediction is
that one should use technology to ensure security of mankind, and for making the
Earth a better place to live.

2.10. Balance between Romance and Realism

H. G. Wells mingled the genre of romance with Science Fiction. But romance
originally referred to Sir Thomas Malory’s tales of King Arthur’s Knights. On the
other hand, realism stands for two things principally-one accuracy of description and
second is rejection of idealism, escapism and romance. As a literary trend it is
associated with 19th century novel depicting the problems of common people. Science
Fiction combines both the element of romance and realism by presenting adventures
useful for the betterment of society.

It is assumed that science studies facts, results etc. in relation to real human
life. Fiction studies adventure. Science Fiction combines these two and brings about a
balance between the two. In the text The Return of Vaman Narlikar brings together the
elements of romance and realism. In the creation of Vaman the element of adventure
is dominant. Moreover the text highlights the journey of Indian scientists Laxman,
Arul and Navin in analyzing the content of the container. Somehow they succeed in
creating Guru. With the help of Guru Laxman makes Vaman, the human robot. It is
also adventurous to notice how Vaman for the sake of replicating himself for power
tries to escape from the company of his creators. He desires to make many Vamans
like the Konads. Both the Konads and Vaman and their existence is highly
adventurous and appears to be real. The underlying reality presented in the existence
of the Konads and Vaman is that man cannot live without technology. Man’s
condition will be miserable in social life if he avoids using science and technology. It
has become an inseparable part in human life.

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 The setting, in particular, is the Indian metro cities Delhi, Bangalore, Bombay.
But much of the action takes place in Gauribidnur. The places mentioned in the text
really exist today. Thus the element of realism about the setting is attained. The story
of the Monads reveals how machine rules the world. The problem of population is
also discussed through the dominance of Konads over the Monads.

2.11. Prophetic Vision and Changes in Social, Political, Cultural and Traditional
aspects of the Universe.

As it is mentioned in Chapter 1.4.10 prophetic vision means that some change

needs to happen in the present political, social, economical, geographical, scientific,
technological, religious, cultural tradition of the universe or the entire race. The
present text, Narlikar’s The Return of Vaman prophecizes a technological revolution
which will introduce artificial intelligence and will serve as the driving force of
computer technology.

In post colonial literature it is this dominant element where the writer is set to
change educational, political, and cultural tradition of the community which has
experienced imperialism and its adverse effects. Narlikar is concerned with the entire
community or human race, not a small group or community. In this case Donald
Wollheim opinion is very relevant. He states:

Read through the blurbs of a hundred paperback SF books and count

how many have at stake not just the hero’s life but a cause of planetary
vastness. Science Fiction writers are not just universe makers, they are
also universe savers.12

The Konads were the aspiration of the Monads and their scientists. Similarly Guru
and Vaman are the aspirations of Indian scientists representing the human race.
Laxman did not visualize the danger of having a self-replicating robot Vaman but
Arul and Kirtikar read the dangers of such a replicating machine. Like a true Science
Fiction writer, Narlikar predicts the changes in computer technology both in their
positive and negative, utopian and dystopian modes by presenting the tale of the
Monads and the Konads.

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2.12. Themes or Novum or Issues handled in Science Fiction

Science Fiction deals with science in general and some branches of science in
particular. While handling the issues relating to science and technology, the writers
are particular in setting their tale in time present or future so as to predict some
scientific, cultural, social or even political changes in human system. The writers
present in anticipation some of the great changes to their species or planet or entire
universe. The universe did start: how, when, why, where are just the speculative
themes for Science Fiction. Narlikar tries to handle one of such questions in narrating
the tale of the Monads and their extinction. Though he spends very few sentences in
telling the tale of the Monads yet the tale has different layers of themes.
There are two worlds to which the text refers. First is about the finding of the
container, then creation of the first photonic supercomputer Guru out of the container
and producing Vaman an artificial replicate intelligence. The second world is of the
Monads and their nemesis, how the advanced civilization becomes extinct due to
greed and how that civilization has been successful in making several artificial human
robots. The major theme of invasion of one colony over another is highlighted
through the presentation of the Monads and the Konads. Navin in chapter I of part III
records the details of the Monad civilization and how the Monads were
technologically and scientifically superior to the present human race. At that time the
question of Urmila raises serious thinking. Her question was regarding the reason of
Monadic extinction. Many thought it could have been due to natural catastrophe or
natural causes. The answer is found in the penultimate chapter of the book, the
documents, when Navin reads the information written on the plaque which he finds in
the storeroom hall.
Navin informs Arul, Samant, and Laxman that it is the Konads who were
responsible for wiping the Monads out of existence and Vaman is just the
representative of the Konads. The Monad scientists were successful in creating
artificial intelligence to serve their need. They utilized the ability to replicate as per
their need. The Konads outnumbered the Monads. The Monads created the Konads
for the purpose of betterment of their life but by doing this they failed to recognize the
dangers of overpopulation of the Konads. Then the inaction of the Konads led to the
miserable life of the Monads. It was too late for the Monads to fight against konads as
their number was half of the Konads. Therefore within ten days they became extinct.
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They made the time capsule container and the plaque on which they warned the
coming civilization not to commit the mistake that they did, namely to be greedy. All
the scientists and others understand Vaman’s intention. Vaman wanted to go with
Shulz and Yamamoto solely because of the greed of possessing the power of
reproducing himself. He sees his future in Shulz. To look at this work as Science
Fiction we must accept that there existed many past civilizations capable of
supporting human life in a more advanced or depraved form than the present one.
Since there is a strong belief that human life exists in our Galaxy on a different planet;
one galaxy itself is having the possibility of over 1000000 planets like Earth.
The second view or Novum is the photonic computer and replicating robot.
Out of the information from the container, Dr Arul, Dr Navin, Dr Laxman made one
photonic computer. As it is mentioned in the text CRAY is the only Supercomputer
which is made of electrons. Indian scientists have the wonderful opportunity to make
the first photonic computer. They succeed in making the first photonic computer
called Guru. The next task is to make a self-replicating machine- human robot based
on the genius mathematician Von Neumann’s theory of Self Reproducing Automata.
When Arul read the thesis of Von Neumann, he thought about the consequences of a
reproducing machine which may invade the life of humans by reproducing humans.
But Laxman has already started making such a robot and names it Vaman. Here is the
perfect combination of science and mythology. Narlikar uses Indian mythology in
allotting names to the characters. Laxman, his wife Urmila, and Vaman are such
examples.
The third idea is that of the tussle between man and machine. Narlikar
published the text in the 1990’s and during that time science had evolved and had
been utilized for reducing unnecessary work of men. Powerful machines, computers,
robots were used to complete the work of men efficiently. In the text the Konad
civilization and Vaman represent human robotic intelligence and the Monads, while
Arul, Laxman, Navin and others represent the human world. The rivalry between the
Monads and the Konads is the fight between man and machine. Enakshi Chatterjee
states:

If we look at the western tradition we find a lot of interesting

experimentations with form. The possibilities are endless. Narlikar
however has chosen a conservative approach. It is prudent to be

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 cautious. Perhaps the time to evolve rules and build conventions, so
that later generation of Science Fiction writers can do away with
them altogether. 13

The researcher has tried to illustrate how Narlikar, like a true Science Fiction writer,
handles the subject of advanced computer technology by presenting Von Neumann’s
theory of Self Replicate Automata which is a practical possibility.

2.13. Conclusion

Narlikar in The Return of Vaman is highly concerned with the element of plot-
story. It is seen in the study that Narlikar observes the basic parameters of the form in
various degrees. He is realistic in handling characters, setting and science in the text.
Though he does not write like the other prolific writers of science fiction, he has
remarkably woven myth into the plot. It seems that Narlikar is busy in fictionalizing
science on an argument that science needs to be utilized for the betterment of
humanity not for the destruction of humanity.

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2.14. References

1. Molyan,Tom. Demand the Impossible: Science Fiction and Utopian

Imagination. New York: Methuen Books, 1986. p. 34.
2. Hoagland, Ericka, and Reema Sarwal, eds. Science Fiction, Imperialism and
the Third World: Essays on Postcolonial Literature and Film. North
Carolina:McFarland Company, 2010.p.7.
3. Haynes, Roslynn. H.G.Wells: Discoverer of the Future: The Influence of
Science on His Thought. London: MacMillon Press Ltd.,1980.p. 73-74.
4. Robert, Scholes and Eric S. Rabkin. Science Fiction. New York: Oxford Uni.
Press, 1977.p.1
5. Scholes, Robert. Science Fiction: History, Science, Vision. New York:Oxford
University Press, 1977. p.116.
6. Chatterjee, Enakshi. “Distinctly Different Flavour” Rev. of The Return of
Vaman in Indian Literature Vol-34,No-1(141), (Jan-Feb. 1991):p.119
7. Narayan, Shyamala A. “A Flouris3hing Signs” Rev. Indian Literature Vol-
34,No- 1(141), (Jan-Feb. 1991):p.139
8. Williams, Raymond. “Science Fiction”. The Highway:The Journal of the
Workers’ Education Association Vol-48 Dec.1956: p.41
9. Chatterjee, Enakshi. “Distinctly Different Flavour” Rev. of The Return of
Vaman in Indian Literature Vol-34,No-1(141),Jan-Feb. 1991.p.121.
10. Chatterjee, Enakshi. “Distinctly Different Flavour” Rev. of The Return of
Vaman in Indian Literature Vol-34,No-1(141),Jan-Feb. 1991.p.121.
11. Doherty, G.D. edi. Science Fiction Aspect. London: Billing and Sons,
1959.p.8.
12. Wollheim, Donald. The Universe Makers: Science Fiction Today. London:
Victoria Gollancz Ltd., 1972. p. 48.
13. Chatterjee, Enakshi. “Distinctly Different Flavour” Rev. of The Return of
Vaman in Indian Literature Vol-34,No-1(141),Jan-Feb. 1991.p.122.

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