The story “Iswaran the Storyteller” by R.K. Laxman is a delightful narrative filled with humor, suspense, and the charm of everyday life. The tale revolves around two main characters: Mahendra, a junior supervisor who frequently moves from place to place due to his job, and Iswaran, his loyal and talkative cook-cum-servant.
While Mahendra is a simple, disciplined man who prefers a quiet life, Iswaran’s lively personality and storytelling abilities gradually win him over. But why did Mahendra become fond of Iswaran? What was it about Iswaran’s character that made him so likable and indispensable to Mahendra?
This article explores the various reasons behind Mahendra’s fondness for Iswaran, highlighting Iswaran’s unique qualities, loyalty, and the bond that developed between them.
1. Iswaran’s Dedication and Loyalty
One of the primary reasons Mahendra became fond of Iswaran was his unwavering loyalty and dedication. Iswaran was not just an ordinary servant; he was someone who took complete responsibility for Mahendra’s comfort and well-being.
Despite Mahendra’s frequent transfers due to his job, Iswaran adapted easily to new environments. He never complained about the challenges of moving or adjusting to unfamiliar places. Instead, he remained committed to his duties, ensuring that Mahendra’s life was as comfortable as possible.
From cooking delicious meals to managing household chores, Iswaran handled everything single-handedly. This sense of responsibility and dependability naturally made Mahendra appreciate and become fond of him.
2. Exceptional Storytelling Skills
Perhaps the most endearing quality of Iswaran was his gift for storytelling. Iswaran had a unique ability to narrate stories with dramatic flair, making even the most ordinary events sound fascinating. His stories were often filled with suspense, action, and supernatural elements, captivating Mahendra’s attention.
Iswaran’s talent for adding vivid descriptions, sound effects, and gestures made his tales incredibly engaging. For Mahendra, who led a monotonous and disciplined life, these stories provided entertainment and relief from his daily routine.
The way Iswaran spun tales with enthusiasm and conviction made Mahendra look forward to their evening conversations. This intellectual companionship and the amusement derived from Iswaran’s narratives played a significant role in strengthening Mahendra’s fondness for him.
3. Adaptability and Resourcefulness
Another reason Mahendra grew fond of Iswaran was his adaptability and resourcefulness. Regardless of where they were posted, Iswaran would quickly settle in, find local markets, and manage the kitchen efficiently.
He was skilled in preparing a variety of dishes with minimal ingredients and always ensured that Mahendra had healthy, tasty meals. His ability to manage household chores without supervision made Mahendra’s life easier, allowing him to focus on his work without worrying about domestic issues.
Iswaran’s practical approach to life, combined with his willingness to adjust to any circumstance, made him indispensable to Mahendra. This sense of reliability and convenience further deepened Mahendra’s fondness for him.
4. Cheerful Personality and Sense of Humor
Iswaran’s cheerful disposition and sense of humor also contributed significantly to Mahendra’s liking for him. In contrast to Mahendra’s reserved nature, Iswaran was lively, talkative, and full of energy. His enthusiasm was contagious, and his humorous take on everyday situations brought laughter and joy into Mahendra’s otherwise quiet life.
Iswaran had the knack for turning dull moments into entertaining ones through his humorous comments and exaggerated storytelling. His positive outlook and light-hearted attitude created a pleasant atmosphere, making Mahendra enjoy his company even more.
5. Caring and Protective Nature
Iswaran also exhibited a caring and protective side, which made Mahendra feel valued. Despite being a servant, Iswaran showed genuine concern for Mahendra’s well-being. For instance, in his stories, he often hinted at supernatural dangers, trying to protect Mahendra from perceived threats.
This concern, though expressed in his unique storytelling style, revealed Iswaran’s deep loyalty and affection for Mahendra. Mahendra recognized this sincerity, which naturally drew him closer to Iswaran and made him appreciate his presence even more.
6. The Human Connection
Beyond the duties of a servant, Iswaran offered Mahendra companionship. Mahendra’s job required him to lead a solitary life, moving from one place to another. In such circumstances, Iswaran’s company provided emotional support. Their daily conversations, shared meals, and evening storytelling sessions created a bond of friendship.
This human connection—rooted in trust, loyalty, and shared experiences—made Mahendra genuinely fond of Iswaran. In a life that could have been lonely, Iswaran’s vibrant personality and warm companionship brought comfort and happiness.
Conclusion
Mahendra became fond of Iswaran because of a combination of qualities that made Iswaran more than just a servant. His loyalty, dedication, adaptability, and exceptional storytelling skills made him an integral part of Mahendra’s life. Iswaran’s cheerful personality, sense of humor, and caring nature further strengthened their bond.
In “Iswaran the Storyteller”, R.K. Laxman masterfully portrays how simple human connections and everyday interactions can add meaning and joy to life. The story reminds us that sometimes, it is the unassuming people around us, like Iswaran, who bring the most comfort, companionship, and warmth into our lives.
Rahul Kumar is a passionate educator, writer, and subject matter expert in the field of education and professional development. As an author on CoursesXpert, Rahul Kumar’s articles cover a wide range of topics, from various courses, educational and career guidance.
