Reclaiming Shakti: Women’s Empowerment, Representation, and Resistance in Indian Cultural, Literary, and Socio-Political Discourse

Abstract

The present article interrogates the evolving status of women in Indian society through a multidimensional lens encompassing mythology, history, literature, cinema, and policy interventions. Drawing on cultural archetypes of the divine feminine, the article traces women’s representation from the Vedic age to the postmodern period, emphasizing both reverence and restriction in traditional narratives. It critically engages with religious texts, social reforms, and historical shifts—including colonial modernity, legislative frameworks, and feminist movements—that have shaped women’s rights and roles. The article explores themes of widowhood, domestic violence, education, and female agency within contemporary contexts. Parallelly, it analyzes cinematic shifts from male-centric portrayals to narratives driven by female subjectivity and resistance, as seen in films like Queen, Thappad, and Lipstick Under My Burkha. Recent policy interventions such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Mahila E-Haat, and the One Stop Centre scheme are critically evaluated for their impact on women’s empowerment. By synthesizing cultural, legislative, and representational discourses, this study asserts that while significant strides have been made, entrenched patriarchal norms continue to hinder women’s full realization of equality and agency. The article calls for sustained academic, legal, and cultural engagement to advance an inclusive and equitable society.