A Thematic Study of James Dokhuma’s War Fiction

Abstract

This article examines James Dokhuma’s war based short stories, focusing on how war shaped Mizo literature and social consciousness. It groups his stories according to their historical settings World War II, the India–Pakistan war, and periods of political unrest and analyzes their major themes. The study finds that romantic relationships across ethnic boundaries are repeatedly portrayed as incomplete or unsuccessful, reflecting Dokhuma’s strong concern for Mizo identity and his resistance to intermarriage between Mizos and other communities. His stories also expose colonial attitudes toward Mizos while affirming Mizo dignity, courage, and cultural pride. Christianity emerges as another central theme: even amid war, displacement, and violence, his characters find moral guidance, comfort, and hope through faith and church life. The article concludes that Dokhuma uses war not merely as a historical background but as a literary means to express Mizo nationalism, Christian values, and the enduring importance of preserving Mizo identity.