Question

Which is the first Indian novel in English? (Choose the correct option)

• A. Rajmohan’s Wife
• B. Raja Harischandra
• C. Mahabharata
• D. The English Teacher

Hint:

Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s “Rajmohan’s Wife” marked the dawn of Indian English fiction and inspired later novelists like R.K. Narayan and Mulk Raj Anand.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Background of the novel.
“Rajmohan’s Wife” is considered the first Indian novel written in English. It was authored by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1864, who was also one of the pioneers of modern Indian literature.
Step 2: About the novel.
The novel deals with domestic life and social issues, portraying Indian values, marital struggles, and moral challenges. It also marks the beginning of Indian fiction in English literature.
Step 3: Analyzing the options.
- (a) Rajmohan’s Wife: Correct — first Indian novel written in English.
- (b) Raja Harischandra: An ancient Sanskrit play, not a novel.
- (c) Mahabharata: An epic, not a novel.
- (d) The English Teacher: Written much later by R.K. Narayan.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, “Rajmohan’s Wife” by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee is the first Indian novel written in English.