The Unassuming Hero: Re-reading Inspector Ganesh Ghote in Keating’s Inspector Ghote Goes by Train

Abstract

The creation of a compelling character that instantly resonates with readers is a primary goal for any writer. For a story to succeed, its characters must be both engaging and emotionally impactful. This holds particularly true in detective fiction, where iconic characters like Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot have contributed to the popularity and enduring success of their stories and the genre as a whole. These characters are well-known for their distinct eccentricities, which set them apart. In contrast, Inspector Ganesh Ghote of the Bombay CID, created by British writer Henry Reymond Fitzwalter Keating (1926-2011), lacks such flamboyant traits. Ghote, a quintessentially Indian detective, was brought to life by Keating before he had even visited India, with the first nine books of the 26-book series written without firsthand experience of the country. Ghote is modest and unassuming, solving crimes through integrity, persistence, determination, and hard work. Despite lacking the flamboyant qualities of his more famous counterparts, Ghote has earned a place among the great detectives of fiction. This article examines the character of Inspector Ghote in Inspector Ghote Goes by Train (1971), arguing that it is his portrayal — rooted in relatability and perseverance — that has resonated with readers and contributed to the success of both the series and its author. This article explores whether Ghote’s character meets the formulaic standards for a successful, enduring detective figure, as outlined by John Cawelti in his essay, “The Study of Literary Formulas.” (1976) Moreover, the article showcases how even an understated detective like Ghote can leave a lasting impact on readers, balancing tradition with innovation to create a timeless detective.