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Sweet Rice and Postcolonialism: Uncovering the Layers of Identity, Cultural

Hybridity, and Self-independence in Amir Hussain's Short Story

Article · June 2023

DOI: 10.51879/PIJSSL/060610

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 Praxis International Journal of Social Science and Literature
A Peer-reviewed & Open Access eJournal with SJIF 2022 = 5.75, ISSN: 2581-6675
Volume 6, Issue 6, June 2023
E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.pijssl.com

Sweet Rice and Postcolonialism: Uncovering the Layers of Identity, Cultural

Hybridity, and Self-independence in Amir Hussain's Short Story
Ahsan Hamza1, Muhammad Touseef 2*, Muhammad Sulman3
1,3
Scholar at Department of English Literature, Government College University Faisalabad
2
Scholar at Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad
*Coresponding author‘s E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract
Amir Hussain's stories challenge dominant narratives and explore postcolonial identity.
His recipe for sweet rice offers insights into cultural assimilation and the importance of
self-discovery. We applied a postcolonial approach whichseek to develop their literary
voices in regions once described in colonialism as “primitive” or “savage”. They
explore themes of self-independence and cultural displacement, offering critiques of
colonialism and its ongoing effects on individual agency and identity. Objectives of this
paper include a systematic analysis of the story to unwrap the elements of identity crisis
in Amir Hussain's literary work. Identity in postcolonial concepts is complicated, linked
to the “other” and difficult to define. Sweet Rice portrays the struggle and identity crisis
faced by immigrants, and the suppression of indigenous culture and knowledge by
colonialism. Displacement leads to identity fluidity, nostalgia, and reinvention as a
means of reclaiming agency and autonomy. Study methodology includes the thematic
analysis of the story with an outlook of postcolonial approach. We concluded that
Shireen's "Sweet Rice" story shows the challenges of cultural identity and displacement
in a globalized world. The journey this character underscores the intricate nature of
upholding customary beliefs and self-sufficiency. It instills confidence and authority
within oneself. Honoring cultural heritage while chasing after personal interests can
result in a fulfilling existence.
Keywords: postcolonial approach, cultural assimilation, identity crisis, postcolonialism,
postcolonial literature

Introduction
Amir Hussain‘s short stories are set in Pakistan and deal with identity, cultural clashes, and independence
struggles. His works often challenge the dominant West narrative and subvert East stereotypes. He portrays
his characters as complex individuals with desires and aspirations, rather than caricatures. He also highlights
the complexities of postcolonial identity and diasporization and challenges the prevailing Western narrative.
Sweet rice is popular in Pakistan. It has significant cultural significance. Amir Hussain, a Pakistani writer,
has shared his recipe for sweet rice. This recipe not only serves as a guide for making a dish but also reveals
deeper insights into postcolonialism and its impact on Pakistani culture. In ―Sweet Rice‖ by Amir Hussein,
the protagonist‘s struggle with identity crisis reflects the postcolonial context of the story. This highlights
how colonialism and cultural assimilation can lead to a fractured sense of self. It emphasizes the importance
of self-discovery and reclamation of cultural identity in the face of an oppressive structure. Postcolonialism
is a critical theory that examines the legacy of colonialism and imperialism. It examines how they have

Praxis International Journal of Social Science and Literature [Volume 6, Issue 6, June 2023] Page 68
DOI: 10.51879/PIJSSL/060610
shaped the cultural, social, and political structure of formerly colonized nations. Postcolonialism explores
the influence of colonial powers and how it has transformed traditional practices and beliefs. This method
focuses on sweet rice. Amir Hussain incorporates postcolonialism elements by highlighting the cultural
dominant narratives which have shaped the dish.

Methodology

The research paper begins with an introduction to sweet rice and its significance in Pakistani culture. It
addresses issues of identity, culture, and self-independence in a postcolonial context. A theoretical
framework has been developed to address identity, culture, and self-independence issues in postcolonial
societies by postcolonial writers. Data collection included reading various articles and books on those
particular issues written by Western and Asian writers. The data collected from articles and books have been
analyzed using a postcolonial approach such as systematic review and thematic analysis.

Theoretical Background

Postcolonial writers attempt to develop their literary voices in the world region that may have been
described in the colonial era as ―primitive‖ or ―savage‖- where literature and culture were considered absent
or illegitimate. They are compelled to find suitable and original forms in which to present their particular
cultural experiences. Relatedly, they often talk about diasporization and displacement because they have
faced these issues in the postcolonial world. Postcolonial writers struggle for identity and cultural
displacement. As a result of colonialism, postcolonial identity is a major issue in postcolonial literature. The
colonial past and the postcolonial situation, which resulted in the appearance of cultural and geographical
components that impacted postcolonial identity and postcolonial literature, helped to shape this identity. In
reality, colonized people perceived that they were losing their identity. It was one of the key factors driving
them to fight against colonial forces. Albert J. Paolini argued in Navigating Modernity that postcolonialism
is strongly connected to the power of discourse in producing identity, with colonial history becoming
especially relevant. (Paolini, 1999). Postcolonialism, as we all know, is primarily concerned with studying
cultures that have been or are still being colonized. It also concerns cultural conflicts and intersections.
Since the beginning of this literary theory, culture has been a key notion for the study. Three pioneers and a
significant theoretical basis comprise postcolonialism. Specifically, Michel Foucault (1926-1984) and his
concept of authority and verbal communication, Franz Fanon (1925-1961) and his remarks about
discriminatory society, and Antonio Gramsci (1891-1937) and his idea of cultural predominance. According
to Gramsci's theory of cultural hegemony, one of a society's social classes might control or dominate a
multicultural one. Fanon's own experience as a black intellectual in a white society, particularly the
disorientation he had after his first brush with racism, profoundly influenced his psychological views about
colonial culture, which are mostly described in Black Skin, White Masks (1952). Leela Gandhi quotes:

“In his comments on Frantz Fanon’s Black Skin, White Masks, the postcolonial critic Homi Bhabha
announces that memory is the necessary and sometimes hazardous bridge between colonialism and the
question of cultural identity.” (Gandhi, L. (2003).

Edward Said makes extensive use of Foucault's power and discourse theory in his book Orientalism and
Cultural Imperialism. This is often the basis for cultural supremacy.

With his highly artistic articulation of brilliant imagery, modern Pakistani English writer Amir Hussein has
attempted to chronicle the history of colonialism. He has also attempted to chronicle the inability of the
colonized to transcend colonial archetypes. Postcolonial writers often explore the theme of self-
independence in their works, particularly in the context of characters grappling with colonialism's legacy
and its impact on their sense of identity and agency. These characters may be struggling to assert
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DOI: 10.51879/PIJSSL/060610
independence in the face of oppressive social or political systems, or they may be negotiating complex
cultural or personal identities as a result of colonialism's legacy. Through their exploration of self-
independence, postcolonial writers highlight the importance of individual agency and self-determination in
the face of systemic oppression and cultural erasure. They also critique colonialism and its ongoing effects.
They draw attention to how colonialism has shaped and continues to shape the lives of those who have been
colonized. Postcolonial writers explore the theme of self-independence in their works to examine
colonialism's effects on individual agency and identity. Authors like Chinua Achebe in "Things Fall Apart"
and Salman Rushdie in "Midnight's Children" depict characters struggling to assert independence in the face
of oppressive social or political systems. Jamaica Kincaid explores the complexities of cultural identities
resulting from colonialism in "Annie John.". By highlighting the importance of individual agency and self-
determination, these works offer powerful critiques of colonialism and its ongoing effects, shedding light on
the complex process of constructing a sense of self and agency in a postcolonial context. As a result of
colonialism's effect on a wide range of ideologies, educated natives began to believe that the West is
responsible for modernity and enlightenment. This belief is summarized in Thiong'o's (1996)

This can lead individuals to view their history as a barren landscape of failure and yearn to put themselves
away from it. This can cause them to want to relate with things which are almost-incomprehensible to them.
(Gill, A. A., Asghar, S. A., Mahmood, M. A., & Mahmood, R. (2022).

Objectives

To analyze the short story ― Sweet Rice‖ by Pakistani writer Amir Hussain using a Postcolonial approach
to examine themes related to cultural clashes, identity crisis, and self-independence.

Cultural Clashes: The objective is to explore how ―Sweet Rice‖ depicts the clash between traditional
Pakistani and Western cultures. This will also examine how the characters in the story negotiate these
cultural differences and the impact these clashes have on their lives.

Identity Crisis: The objective is to analyze how the protagonist of the story navigates the complexities of
her identity as a Pakistani in a postcolonial world. It will explore how the character struggles to reconcile
her cultural heritage with Western cultural pressures.

Self-Independence: The objective is to explore how the protagonist seeks to assert her independence in the
face of cultural expectations and societal pressures. It will examine how she navigates the tension between
her desire for autonomy and her cultural heritage.

A Systematic Review of the Story

The Oxford English Dictionary states that identity is what makes someone or something who or what they
are, yet in postcolonial theories, it is tough to accurately define it.The identification of a group, an
individual, or a nation is linked to the ―other‖ which implies they recognize themselves as ―us‖ with the
existence of ―other‖.

A preliminary analysis of the selected text shows that ― Sweet Rice " is a powerful portrayal of the struggle
and identity crisis faced by immigrants in a foreign land. The story centers around Shireen, a Pakistani
woman living in London, and her struggle to reconcile her past and present. Shireen is a complex character,
torn between her Pakistani roots and foreign identity. She feels lost and disconnected, caught between two
worlds, unable to embrace either fully. Her constant yearning for sweet rice in Pakistan was made by her
grandmother. Grandmother made it for her and named it ‗Shreen Pulao‘ Sweet Rice. (Page 53) Throughout
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DOI: 10.51879/PIJSSL/060610
the story, we see Shireen's struggle to find a place for herself in this new world. She is a doctor by
profession in Karachi and moved to London with her husband. Where she wanted to pursue her profession
but could not. Because the colonizers do not allow colonized people to continue their professions in their
country.

Frantz Fanon says that ―Black Skin‖ White Masks‖ examine the psychological effects of colonization and
racism on colonized people, including the way that racism can limit their opportunities for education and
career advancement (Fanon, F. (2012). Identity is not as straightforward as it may appear to be, as Mercer
claims. An identity crisis only arises when what has been deemed certain, holistic, and persistent is met with
uncertainty and perplexity." In all spheres of life—including the arts, economy, and culture—the battle for
decolonization, which aimed to reclaim identities stolen by the colonizing powers, was also a hallmark of
colonialism. While discussing the colonial system and identity, we should not avoid mentioning women's
role in the system. Virtual reality exists for female identity. She doesn't appear to talk, has a role to play, or
even be there at first glance. Does virtual reality apply to colonizers and colonized subalterns? Brings the
message home. Gayatri Chakravarty Spivak in one of her articles points out this matter. Throughout the
colonial system, women are not allowed to speak because they are not given the right. Both the colonizer
and the patriarchy colonized it. She feels confined by this dual colonization.

“Between patriarchy and imperialism, subject-constitution and object

the formation, the figure of the woman disappears, not into a pristine

nothingness, but into a violent shuttling that’s the displaced figuration of

the “third-world woman” caught between tradition and modernization,

culturalism and development.”

Whenever Shireen talks to her husband about her career, he finds excuses like "Timur is too little, and
medical training here is too expensive. Don't act foolishly; you need to comprehend the New Economics;
people in our occupation do not restrict themselves to just one location.‖ (Page 51). This is how she feels
about colonizers and patriarchy's dual standards. She can only be assigned the responsibility of raising
children. In this way, she contributes to the system's operation by raising a child for the colonizer or the
colonized. Therefore, Shireen struggles to find a place for herself in the new world. As a result, she feels
like an outsider within both colonizations. This creates a sense of isolation and loneliness that Shireen
struggles to overcome.

Amir Hussein uses food as a powerful metaphor to convey Shreen's displacement. The sweet rice that
Shireen craves represents more than just a dish. It reminds her of her home, culture, and family. It
symbolizes everything she left behind, and everything she lost in assimilation into an unfamiliar culture. In
Sweet Rice Shireen‘s character embodies this sense of cultural displacement. She is caught between
Pakistani traditional values and the London culture that surrounds her. Shireen‘s family holds on to cultural
traditions by making sweet rice, a dish traditionally made on special occasions in Pakistan.

However, even this act is fraught with difficulties as she struggles to find the right ingredients and
equipment in the West. In essence, problems arise due to displacement. One cannot forget the people,
culture, landscapes, and language of the exiled location. However, they also find it challenging to separate
themselves from the changed location, nation, and language they chose to acquire or were compelled to
embrace. This is for several reasons. In contrast with nostalgic memories of the motherland, settling in a
new place is inevitable. This type of juxtaposition leads to an ongoing identity dilemma on the one side. In
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DOI: 10.51879/PIJSSL/060610
addition, it leads to an ambivalent or hybrid perspective of their guest community and culture on the whole.
After a displacement, there are no ways to regain a single, solid, monolithic identity. One must come to
terms with identities' fluidity, with all the emotional pains and cultural shocks. They must endure the
agonies caused by an uncontrollable sense of longing for things left behind. They must also endure places
that have been lost and languages that have been forgotten forever. Shireen feels this diasporic effect when
she offers her son sweet lassi- he asks for ―Artificially flavored yogurt‖ (Page 54). Here we see the
suppression of indigenous culture and the imposition of Western culture and values. Homi K. Bhabha in his
book ―The Location of Culture‖ discusses the concept of cultural hybridity, which can lead to feelings of
alienation and dislocation for colonized people who attempt to integrate into the dominant culture of the
colonizer‘s country (Bhabha, H. K. (2012). Salman Rushdie‘s ―Midnight‘s Children" examines individuals
caught between cultures in postcolonial India. The novel follows the lives of a group of children born at
India's independence from British rule. Rushdie explores how these characters struggle to accept their
cultural identity in a rapidly changing world (Rushdie, S. (2010). Postcolonial writers argue that colonialism
has led to not only economic exploitation and political dominance but also the suppression of indigenous
culture and knowledge systems. In addition, colonialism has imposed Western norms and values.
Displacement can lead to strong creative impulses when experiencing nostalgia and identity fluidity.

Amir Hussein, through the Shireen character, explores the issue of reinvention of character as a response to
colonialism's legacy, which imposed a distinct cultural identity on the colonized people, often resulting in
the ensuring of pre-existing cultural identities. Postcolonial writers view character reinvention as a means of
reclaiming and asserting agency and autonomy. This is in the face of this history of oppression and racial
subjugation. Vikram Seth, in his novel ―A Suitable Boy‖, explores the issue of reinvention of self through
the character of Lara, who tries to break free from societal norms and expectations to find her own identity
(Seth, V. (1994). In Sweet Rice, the novel ―Naimatkhana‖ by Muhammadi Begum, portrays strong female
characters who challenge traditional gender roles. Shireen found inspiration in the novel‘s depiction of
women who defy societal expectations and pursue their own goals and desires. Naimatkhana resonates with
Shireen‘s own experiences and struggles. The novel highlights the challenges faced by women in patriarchal
societies and the need for women to assert independence and claim agency. Likewise, in Sweet Rice,
Shireen faces similar challenges as she seeks to break free from societal expectations. She pursues her own
goal by writing a book about the recipe for sweet rice. Arundhati Roy in her novel ― The God of small
things‖ follows the lives of two siblings who try to reinvent themselves in the face of societal and familial
expectations.

Thematic Analysis

The story "Sweet Rice" revolves around Shireen, a Pakistani woman who moved to London with her
husband and child. The story explores several themes, including an identity crisis, cultural displacement,
and self-independence. The story depicts Shireen's struggle with her identity. As a Pakistani woman living
in the West, she feels torn between two cultures and identities. She is unsure of where she truly belongs,
leading to isolation and confusion. She used to be a respected doctor in Karachi who supported herself and
earned respect; now, in London, she is just a wealthy banker's wife. One who arranges social gatherings and
dinner parties for her husband's rich friends and coworkers. She finds it irritating to share her monotonous
existence with these people who have become routine. This struggle is apparent when she makes sweet rice
for her husband's friends. She feels pride in sharing her culture but is unsure of how they will perceive it.
This inner conflict reflects her identity crisis as she tries to balance her cultural roots with her desire to fit in
with her new surroundings. As mentioned earlier, she was a doctor by profession and wanted to pursue her
career in a Third World country. However, colonized people were not allowed to work or pursue the degree
they got from their country. A text says; ―In this impossibly difficult city of London where even a power

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DOI: 10.51879/PIJSSL/060610
fully- situated husband did not guarantee a work permit or a job for a doctor with Third World‖ (Page 51).
Fanon (1952) argues that the identity has been distorted, deviated, and confused due to long years of
colonization.

Similarly, cultural displacement is evident in Shireen's character as she navigates the cultural differences
between Pakistan and London. She finds herself in a foreign land where everything differs from what she
knows. She struggles to adjust to the new language, food, and social norms. This displacement creates
isolation and loneliness in Shireen, as she longs for her homeland. There is a longing to belong. However,
she does not seem to be suited to that environment. She doesn't like cooking for her husband‘s friends and
thinks she was not born to cook for armies. She was familiar with traditional food and could not cook the
kind of food that her husband and his friends enjoyed. Furthermore, when her son Timur demands chips,
burgers, and yogurt that is artificially favorable instead of what she offers him, she feels the suppression of
her own culture. Bhabba (2004) describes postcolonial hybridity as a subversive tool whereby colonized
people might challenge various forms of oppression- racial, linguistic, cultural and literary, and religious.
Even though Shireen moved far from her hometown of Karachi to start anew in London, her behavior
continues to reflect Urdu connotations and culture. In practically every word of this musical account of her
story, the simmering desire for her roots and her former life can be sensed, where her wings were not
clipped by societal expectations, before moving abroad.

Shireen's character reflects self-independence as she asserts her autonomy and refuses to conform to societal
expectations. When she searched for Sweet Rice recipes in books in the cupboard, she found a book named
Naimatkhana. It was written by Muhammadi Begum, a well-renowned Indian writer. She was the master
cook of stirring ingredients of romance and realism. She nurtured generations of women and was secluded
from the confines of a house and veil. Muhammadi Begum's husband Mumtaz Ali fought for women's rights
to choose their destinies and encouraged her wife's endeavors. Making her own decisions led Muhammadi
Begum to happiness. Shireen gains courage and self-confidence from Muhammadi Begum, which forms the
basis for her empowerment. She breaks free from traditional gender roles prescribed by her culture and
pursues her passion for writing a book on the recipe for sweet rice. By reading Muhammadi Begum's story,
Shireen finds a way out of her dilemma.

Conclusion

Shireen's story in "Sweet Rice" highlights the universal struggle of cultural identity and displacement. In it,
we see the ongoing challenge of decolonization and cultural identity in a globalized and interconnected
world. Her experiences show the complexities of balancing traditional values with self-independence.
Shireen's journey towards empowerment and autonomy, inspired by Muhammadi Begum's story, is a
powerful reminder that true liberation lies in breaking free from societal expectations and pursuing our
passions. Ultimately, "Sweet Rice" leaves us with a profound message: embracing our cultural roots and
forging our paths can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life.

References
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Paolini, A. J. Navigating Modernity: Postcolonialism, Identity, and International Relations. Lynne Rienner Publishers,
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Gandhi, L. "After Colonialism." Globalization-Critical Concepts in Sociology: The Nation-State and International
Relations, 2003, pp. 350-367.
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Singh, A. "Mimicry and Hybridity in Plain English." Retrieved January 27, 2019.

Bhabha, H., & Southey, R. "Signs Taken for Wonders." Urban Culture: Critical Concepts in Literary and Cultural
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