Echoes of Patriarchy: The Fate of Women in Classical Hindu Narratives

Abstract

Although religious writings have traditionally been used as moral and cultural pillars, the way they depict female characters frequently reflects patriarchal ideals that support the oppression of women. With an emphasis on The Ramayana and Abhijñāna Śākuntalam, this Research critically analyzes how women are portrayed in Hindu religious and literary writings. Through stories like Shakuntala’s extermination from her true identity, Kaikeyi’s demonization, and Sita’s trial by fire, it challenges the underlying socio-religious structures that shape female autonomy. This study examines how these representations perpetuate gendered moral expectations, frequently resulting in a discourse of female subordination and marginalization, using feminist hermeneutics and comparative textual analysis. The study also examines whether these writings provide room for subversion or reframing of prevailing patriarchal ideologies. By doing this, it hopes to encourage a nuanced understanding of women’s roles in conventional narratives and challenge essentialist readings to contribute to current feminist discussions on religion and gender.