Author: Rony Bhowal
Abstract: P. Sivakami’s The Taming of Women is a landmark work in contemporary Indian literature, offering an unflinching portrayal of the intersecting oppressions faced by Dalit women in Indian society. Dalit women occupy a unique position at the margins of both caste and gender hierarchies, often subjected to systemic violence, social exclusion, and gendered exploitation. This research article examines the struggles of Dalit women as represented in Sivakami’s novel, focusing on their attempts to reclaim social, cultural, and personal space in a society that systematically seeks to silence them. Through a critical analysis of characters, narrative strategies, and social commentary, the study explores themes such as caste oppression, gender-based violence, patriarchal control, and the assertion of agency. By situating The Taming of Women within the broader context of Dalit feminist discourse, this research highlights the novel’s role in both documenting lived realities and articulating a vision for resistance and empowerment.
Keywords: Dalit Feminism, Caste, Gender, Oppression, P. Sivakami, Agency, Social Justice, Marginalization.
Page No: 202-208