In the novels of R K Narayan 19062001 the forefather of modern Indian fiction humanscale hopes and epiphanies express the promise of a nation as it awakens to its place in the world In Waiting for the Mahatma a young drifter meets the most beautiful girl he has ever seenan adherent of Mahatma Gandhiand commits himself to Gandhis Quit India campaign a decision that will test the integrity of his ideals against the strength of his passions This novel written after Indias independence is a masterpiece of social comedy rich in local color and abounding in affectionate humor and generosity of spirit