WOMEN WRITERS IN INDIAN ENGLISH LITERATURE: BREAKING BARRIERS
Dr. Abusina Biswas
Department of English, Rani Dhanya Kumari College, Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Abstract
Indian English literature has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the emergence of women writers who have played a pivotal role in challenging societal norms and redefining the literary landscape. From the colonial period to contemporary times, Indian women writers have broken barriers, asserting their voices in a space historically dominated by male narratives. Their works not only reflect personal and collective struggles but also engage with broader socio-political issues such as patriarchy, gender discrimination, caste, class, and identity. The journey of women in Indian English literature began with pioneers like Toru Dutt and Sarojini Naidu, who, despite societal constraints, established themselves as influential literary figures. Their poetry and prose often intertwined themes of nationalism, feminism, and cultural identity. The post-independence era saw the rise of novelists like Kamala Markandaya, Anita Desai, and Nayantara Sahgal, who focused on the psychological depth of female protagonists, shedding light on their inner turmoil and resistance against oppressive structures. These writers paved the way for later generations to explore themes beyond domesticity, delving into areas of sexuality, violence, and female agency. The evolution of Indian English literature has been significantly shaped by the contributions of women writers, who have not only enriched the literary landscape but also challenged the socio-cultural constraints imposed upon them. From the colonial era to contemporary times, women writers in India have continuously fought against patriarchal norms, giving voice to the marginalized, questioning gender roles, and redefining literary traditions. This article explores the journey of Indian women writers in English, examining the challenges they faced and the barriers they broke in their pursuit of literary expression. By analysing the works of prominent women authors across different periods, the paper sheds light on their thematic concerns, stylistic innovations, and socio-political engagements. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a new wave of Indian women writers emerged, including Shashi Deshpande, Arundhati Roy, Jhumpa Lahiri, Kiran Desai, and Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. Their narratives expanded the scope of Indian English literature by addressing transnationalism, migration, and hybrid identities while maintaining a strong feminist perspective. Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things (1997), for instance, revolutionized literary discourse with its experimental style and critical engagement with social injustices. Similarly, Jhumpa Lahiri’s works explore the complexities of diasporic existence and the challenges of cultural assimilation. The literary contributions of these women are significant not just in terms of storytelling but also in their impact on feminist discourse in India. Writers like Mahasweta Devi used literature as a tool for activism, highlighting the oppression of tribal communities and marginalized women. Contemporary voices such as Meena Kandasamy and Perumal Murugan continue this legacy by addressing caste and gender issues with boldness and defiance. Their works exemplify how Indian women writers are no longer confined to traditional themes but are actively engaging with political and revolutionary narratives.
Despite their achievements, Indian women writers have often faced systemic challenges, including lack of recognition, gender bias in publishing, and the expectation to conform to established literary norms. However, their perseverance has led to the creation of a distinct and dynamic body of literature that reflects the evolving status of women in Indian society. By breaking barriers and rewriting narratives, they have carved out a space where diverse female experiences are represented, celebrated, and critically examined.
Keywords: Indian English literature, women writers, feminism, gender, patriarchy, diaspora, identity, transnationalism, activism, literary discourse, cultural assimilation.
Journal Name :
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EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR)
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Published on : 2025-03-20
Vol | : | 11 |
Issue | : | 3 |
Month | : | March |
Year | : | 2025 |