Authority in 'Sahib-e-Karāmat'

There are obvious religious-political undertones to the story ‘Sahib-e-Karāmaṭ’, however this particular story is also testimony to Manto’s remarkable understanding of the human psyche. The issue that appears to be at the forefront of this story is that of authority (what makes it ‘legitimate’?) and the mechanism by which compliance can be won. The story begins in a rustic and quaint farm setting, where a content Majo is pictured languishing on a charpayi. The Maulvi Sahab, with his “shara’ee lab” and religious garb waltzes into Majo’s life and commands his devotion in a‘tahukm lehja’. The effect is almost hypnotic. Majo is not a religious man (even though he is described as one). Yet, so profound is the effect of the Maulvi Sahab’s ostensibly religious demeanor that Majo 1. Believes everything he says 2. Accomodates him in his house 3. Allows him to take liberties with his daughter 3. Displays devotee-like behavior (massaging his feet and the like)

This raises one simple question: Why? From the get go, Maulvi Sahab assumes authority and acts and talks in well oiled, automated manner. Was that sufficient grounds for commanding submission? Why isn’t there even a moment of doubt regarding the Maulvi’s untoward behavior throughout the course of the story? More than religious ignorance, the story highlights a pertinent social malaise in society which is that of yielding unquestionably to figures of authority.