The Grip of Change: An Attempt to Raise Consciousness with Special Reference to Feminist Approach

Abstract

Dalit literature especially written by Dalit women goes beyond conventional linguistic expression. It moves into the realm of social and political areas in search of their identity. The present work delves deep into a probing leap into the field of Dalit women’s writings dealing with their anguish, aiming at the liberation of mind and body. It also stands as a proud reflection of the cultural and social history of the community. The problem, the suffering and the difference meted out to the Dalit women come to the forefront. Their writings depict the picture of Dalit women’s life in the present as well as their past, their communities and their experiences. The identity crisis, the status of double marginalization, the liminality of identity and the process of reconstruction of identity are the main objectives of the article. The denial of voice to women has paved the way to avail other voices through their own writings. This article attempts to explore how Dalit women’s writings deal with a triple tragedy of oppression and suppression on account of gender, caste and class as well as poverty. It throws light on how these writings, reflect the nagging worries and anxieties of the community as a whole through a feminist perspective. The present study revolves around the silent suffering of Dalit women in their own voice.