Writing Ithihasa: Subversion Of Mythical Stereotypes In Select Novels In Indian Literature

Abstract

“Ahalya Draupadi Kunti Tara Mandodari tatha Panchakanya smaranityam mahapataka nashaka.”Panchasati or Panchakanya can be mean that one who always remembers these five great women, Ahalya, Draupadi, Kunti, Tara and Mandodari- is saved from all sins and failures. Myth plays a significant role in shaping the cultural heritage of a society. Myth can be referred to “a traditional story in a pre- literate society, dealing with supernatural beings, ancestors and heroes that serve as types in a primitive view of the world.” Indian society uses myth as a tool to impose their creed or doctrine on women by providing idealized role models for them. For example, Sita in Valmiki’s Ramayana is deemed as the epitome of how a female figure should be. She is esteemed for her dedication, self- sacrifice, courage and purity. Sita is glorified because she unquestioningly follows her husband into exile and remains devoted to him.This study attempts to bring forth the subversion of mythical stereotypes in Indian literature and how mythology is used by the patriarchy to subordinate women by analyzing four women from Indian literature and mythology - Sita, Mandodari, Gandhari and Draupadi with their counter narratives.