Uncovering Women’s Experiences: Examining Gender Dynamics in Dalit and Brahmin Society through the Lens of Political Feminists

Humanities

Feminism analyses and resists gender-specific oppression and prejudice that women run into in various facets of their lives. Its aim is to destroy patriarchal systems, question gender norms, and achieve gender parity in the economic, political, and social sectors. Dalit and Brahmin patriarchy are different aspects of Indian society which reviews the hierarchical structure and gender dynamics within the caste system in India. Dalit women face caste, gender, and class-based discrimination on top of their marginalization, which hinders their access to education, job prospects, and decision-making authority. The fight against Dalit patriarchy seeks to weaken and collapse these repressive institutions, give Dalit women a greater say, and advance social equality and justice. On the other hand, the control and privilege that Brahmin men, who constitute the top caste in the orthodox caste order, enjoy are often referred to as “Brahmin patriarchy.” Brahmin men often maintain positions of power, enforce societal norms, and regulate religious and cultural practices. By limiting their participation in public life and reinforcing gender stereotypes, this patriarchal system hinders the agency and autonomy of Brahmin women. Women in homes have generally been the victim of oppressed. Women face different forms of abuse within their own homes due to patriarchal norms. They often have to abide by sex stereotypes, have no power over decisions, and are entirely reliant on their male family. This article argues that mainstream Indian feminists’ approach to gender justice is incomprehensible and uncommitted. It proposes to rethink Indian feminist discourse with a focus on its socio-cultural difference from the rest of the world, which suggests that theorizing from a Dalit feminist standpoint is the only way to consummate feminist philosophy.

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