“GENDER AND JUSTICE: A GANDHIAN PERSPECTIVE
IN BHATTACHARYA’S NOVEL – “SO MANY HUNGERS”
Dr. Alaghari Ramesh Babu
Assistant Professor
Dept. of HSS (English)
Andhra University
Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract:
Mahatma
Gandhi's perspective on gender equality was revolutionary for his time and
remains influential today. He believed in the inherent equality of men and women,
advocating for a society where women could enjoy the same rights,
opportunities, and respect as men. Gandhi’s vision of gender equality was
rooted in his broader ideals of truth, non-violence, and justice. Gandhi advocated for the empowerment of women
as essential to India’s progress, challenging traditional gender norms and
encouraging women to participate in the freedom struggle.
In
Bhabani Bhattacharya's "So Many Hungers," the Gandhian perspective of
gender equality is woven into the fabric of the narrative, reflecting the
social and political ideals of the Indian independence movement. The novel
showcases how women, despite facing socio-economic challenges, embody strength,
resilience, and the potential for transformative change, aligning with Mahatma
Gandhi's belief in the inherent equality of men and women. This perspective is vividly represented in
the character of Kajoli, who transitions from being a naive village girl to a
symbol of courage and endurance. As she confronts exploitation and hardship
during the Bengal famine, Kajoli’s strength reflects the Gandhian idea that
women possess an innate power to withstand suffering and lead in times of
crisis. Her journey illustrates how women, like men, can be agents of change,
contributing to societal transformation and resistance against injustice.
Moreover,
the novel emphasizes non-violence and self-reliance, core aspects of Gandhi’s
philosophy, as tools for women’s empowerment. Bhattacharya portrays female
characters who resist oppression through their resilience and moral fortitude,
challenging the patriarchal structures that confine them. Thus, "So Many
Hungers" not only portrays the struggles of women but also celebrates
their ability to rise above adversity, embodying Gandhi’s vision of a just and
egalitarian society where gender does not determine one’s capacity to lead or
endure.
Keywords: Social justice, Human rights, Equality,
Peace, Satyagraha, Sarvodaya, Compassion
Gandhi’s
principles
Many great persons advocate for social
justice, human rights, and equality. Through their actions and influence, they
challenge norms, fight against injustice, and bring about significant societal
changes. They have transformed societies by promoting peace, justice, and
equality. Effective leaders guide societies
through challenging times, providing direction, stability, and hope. Their
leadership can unite people, foster development, and create a sense of purpose
and community. Overall, great
individuals leave a lasting legacy that shapes the values, beliefs, and
progress of society, inspiring generations to come.
Great persons often serve as role models,
inspiring others to pursue their goals, overcome obstacles, and strive for
excellence. Their life stories, achievements, and resilience provide motivation
for people to aim higher and believe in their potential. Mahatma Gandhi was indeed such a leader whose
influence and impact on society were profound.
Gandhi pioneered the concept of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) as a
powerful tool for social and political change. This approach not only played a
crucial role in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule
but also inspired other global movements for civil rights and freedom,
including those led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. Gandhi’s principle of "Satyagraha,"
which means "truth force," emphasized the power of truth in fighting
injustice. He believed that ethical means must be used to achieve just ends,
demonstrating that moral courage could be more effective than physical
force. Gandhi worked tirelessly to
address social issues like untouchability, poverty, and inequality. He
advocated for the upliftment of marginalized communities and emphasized the
importance of education, self-reliance, and rural development, promoting the
idea of "Sarvodaya" (welfare for all).
Gandhi’s principle of "Satyagraha,"
which means "truth force," emphasized the power of truth in fighting
injustice. He believed that ethical means must be used to achieve just ends,
demonstrating that moral courage could be more effective than physical force. Gandhi
did not view women as weak or dependent. Instead, he believed they possessed
immense inner strength, compassion, and moral courage. He saw them as the
embodiment of self-sacrifice, patience, and resilience, and urged society to
recognize these qualities as strengths rather than limitations.
Mahatma Gandhi's perspective on gender
equality was progressive for his time, and he advocated for the empowerment and
upliftment of women in various ways. Gandhi
firmly believed that men and women are equal and should be treated with equal
dignity and respect. He argued that women should not be seen as subordinate to
men but as individuals with their own rights and capabilities. He emphasized
that a society cannot progress if half of its population is denied equality. Gandhi
actively involved women in India’s independence movement, encouraging them to
participate in protests, marches, and non-cooperation activities. He believed
that women's participation was crucial for the success of the movement and that
they had the strength, resilience, and courage to be agents of change. This
involvement was revolutionary at a time when women were largely confined to
domestic roles.
Gandhi stressed the importance of education
for women, believing that it was a fundamental right and a means to
empowerment. He argued that educated women could contribute significantly to
society's progress and could better assert their rights and independence. Gandhi
was vocal about eliminating practices that oppressed women, such as child
marriage, dowry, purdah (veil system), and sati (self-immolation). He called
for an end to these practices, advocating for women’s freedom to make choices
about their lives. Gandhi did not view women as weak or dependent. Instead, he
believed they possessed immense inner strength, compassion, and moral courage.
He saw them as the embodiment of self-sacrifice, patience, and resilience, and
urged society to recognize these qualities as strengths rather than limitations.
Gandhi linked the principles of non-violence (Ahimsa) to feminine qualities,
suggesting that women’s innate nurturing and non-violent nature made them ideal
practitioners of Satyagraha (truth force). He believed that women could lead by
example, using their moral power to bring about social change.
Gandhi's views were progressive, he was also
a product of his time, and some of his beliefs reflected traditional values.
Nonetheless, his advocacy for women's rights, dignity, and active participation
in public life laid the groundwork for future movements toward gender equality
in India. Mahatma Gandhi's perspective on gender justice and equality had a
significant and multifaceted impact on the field of literature, influencing the
themes, narratives, and the role of women writers. His ideas served as a
catalyst for change, inspiring both male and female authors to explore issues
of gender, empowerment, and social justice in their works.
Gandhi's call for women's participation in
all spheres of life, including literature, encouraged many women to voice their
experiences and opinions through writing. He believed that women had a unique
perspective and strength, which needed to be shared with the world. As a
result, many female authors felt empowered to write about their lives,
challenges, and aspirations. Writers like Sarojini Naidu, who was an admirer of
Gandhi and an active participant in the independence movement, emerged as
significant literary figures, contributing poetry and prose that highlighted
women's issues, freedom, and equality.
Gandhi’s Influence on Literature:
Gandhi's ideas on gender equality inspired
literature to address themes of women's rights, justice, and social reform. The
issues he raised, such as child marriage, dowry, purdah (veil system), and the
marginalization of women, found their way into literary works. Authors began to
explore the struggles faced by women in a patriarchal society, presenting them
as individuals capable of challenging oppressive norms. For example, novels and
short stories from the period depicted women fighting for their rights,
striving for education, and seeking independence—themes that were in line with
Gandhi's vision of gender equality.
Gandhi's belief in the strength and
resilience of women influenced how female characters were portrayed in
literature. Instead of being confined to traditional, passive roles, women
characters in post-Gandhian literature were depicted as strong, assertive, and
capable of making significant contributions to society. These characters
embodied the ideals of courage, self-reliance, and moral strength that Gandhi
advocated. For instance, in novels such as Kamala Markandaya's "Nectar in
a Sieve" and Raja Rao's "Kanthapura," women played central roles
in challenging social norms and leading change within their communities.
Gandhi viewed literature as a powerful means
of social reform, and his perspective encouraged writers to use their craft as
a tool to address gender injustices and advocate for equality. This led to an
increase in literary works that challenged patriarchal structures, questioned
gender norms, and called for societal change. Through poetry, fiction, essays,
and plays, authors began to highlight the injustices faced by women, urging
readers to rethink their attitudes and behaviours towards gender roles.
Bhabani Bhattacharya a Disciple of Gandhi:
Gandhi's ideals on gender equality also had
an international impact, influencing global literary discourse. His philosophy
of non-violence and equality inspired movements for women's rights and gender
justice beyond India, with writers and activists around the world drawing
inspiration from his work. This cross-cultural influence helped in creating a
broader dialogue on gender issues in literature. Bhabani Bhattacharya was one
of the novelists influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's ideals, including his perspective
on gender justice and equality. As a socially conscious writer, Bhattacharya
incorporated Gandhian principles into his novels, addressing issues of social
reform, freedom, and the empowerment of marginalized groups, including women.
In his
novels, Bhattacharya portrayed women as strong, resilient characters who often
challenge oppressive social norms. Inspired by Gandhi's belief in women's
strength and potential, Bhattacharya's female characters are depicted as active
agents of change, capable of shaping their destinies and influencing society. Bhattacharya
addressed issues such as dowry, widowhood, and the societal restrictions placed
on women, echoing Gandhi's call for gender equality and justice. His novels
reflect the struggles of women against patriarchal oppression and advocate for
their right to education, independence, and dignity.
In his novel "So Many Hungers!",
Bhattacharya portrays the impact of the Indian freedom struggle and the Bengal
famine, highlighting the suffering of women and their journey towards
empowerment. Similarly, in "Music for Mohini," he examines the
challenges faced by a young woman trying to reconcile traditional expectations
with modern aspirations, reflecting Gandhi's advocacy for women's rights and
social reform. Bhabani Bhattacharya’s works serve as a literary expression of
Gandhi's vision of gender justice, blending social realism with a strong sense
of empathy for the struggles faced by women in a changing society.
Gandhian
Perspective of Gender Justice in "So Many Hungers!"
"So Many Hungers!" by Bhabani
Bhattacharya is indeed one of the best examples of a novel influenced by
Gandhian ideals, particularly his perspective on gender justice and equality.
The novel, set against the backdrop of the Bengal famine of 1943 and India's
struggle for independence, explores themes of hunger—both physical and
metaphorical—and highlights the plight, resilience, and strength of women
during times of crisis.
The novel features strong female protagonists
who defy the traditional roles imposed by society. Characters like Kajoli and
her mother embody the resilience and strength that Gandhi believed women
possessed. Despite facing extreme adversity, they display immense courage and
adaptability, symbolizing the empowerment Gandhi advocated. Kajoli’s journey
from an innocent village girl to a woman who confronts harsh realities mirrors
the transformation Gandhi envisioned for women—moving from passivity to active
participation in shaping their destinies. The novel critiques the patriarchal
structures that lead to the exploitation and suffering of women, reflecting
Gandhi’s fight against such injustices. Bhattacharya portrays how societal
norms restrict women’s choices, but he also showcases their ability to resist
and challenge these constraints. Kajoli’s experiences, including being forced
into desperate situations due to poverty and famine, highlight the gender
inequalities prevalent in society. Yet, her strength and determination to
survive underscore the potential for women to rise above these challenges.
Bhattacharya uses the narrative to advocate
for social reform, emphasizing the need for gender equality and justice. By
depicting the struggles faced by women during the famine, he underscores the
importance of empowering them, a theme central to Gandhi’s vision of a just
society. The novel’s portrayal of women's suffering during the famine serves as
a critique of societal indifference and the exploitation of the vulnerable,
echoing Gandhi's emphasis on compassion, empathy, and the need for societal
change. Just as Gandhi saw women as embodiments of non-violence and moral
strength, Bhattacharya’s female characters symbolize resilience, hope, and the
spirit of resistance. Despite facing hunger, exploitation, and despair, they
continue to fight for survival, reflecting Gandhi's belief in the
transformative power of women in society.
Indira Bhatt: In her analysis, Bhatt
emphasized how the novel represents the Gandhian ideals of non-violence,
self-reliance, and empathy. She appreciated Bhattacharya's emphasis on the
theme of social justice and the importance of human values in times of crisis.
Kajoli an Embodiment of Gandhian Ideals:
Kajoli, the protagonist in Bhabani
Bhattacharya's "So Many Hungers!", stands out as one of the best examples
of a character embodying Gandhian ideals, particularly with regard to gender
justice and equality. Her journey from innocence to resilience mirrors Gandhi’s
belief in women’s innate strength and potential to rise above oppression and
adversity. Kajoli's story reflects the struggles of countless women during
times of crisis, highlighting the power of survival, dignity, and
self-determination. Kajoli begins as a simple village girl, but the Bengal
famine forces her into situations that require immense courage and fortitude.
She becomes the symbol of the oppressed, facing the harsh realities of hunger,
poverty, and exploitation. Gandhi often spoke of the strength that comes from
suffering, and Kajoli personifies this strength. Despite the famine stripping
her of security, she endures with dignity. In one instance, when faced with the
proposition to sell her body for survival, Kajoli’s response reflects her
resolve to maintain her dignity despite her suffering. She firmly rejects the
idea, saying that she would rather die than surrender her self-respect. Kajoli's
dialogues are poignant and reflect her resilience, strength, and the struggle
for dignity, embodying Gandhi's ideals of gender equality. Here are some
relevant dialogues that highlight her character's alignment with Gandhian
principles:
When Kajoli faces the proposition of trading her body for food, she
firmly rejects it, saying:
“I would rather die than sell my body. It is
not something to be traded for a few grains of rice.”(-So Many Hungers)
This dialogue powerfully captures her refusal to be exploited despite
the extreme hunger and poverty she faces. It echoes Gandhi’s belief that women
should be treated with respect and should resist being objectified or reduced
to mere instruments for others’ gain. This response embodies Gandhi’s belief
that women should never be treated as mere objects and that their dignity is
non-negotiable. Her refusal to succumb to despair, even when facing the
prospect of exploitation and abuse, aligns with Gandhi’s vision of Satyagraha,
or non-violent resistance. Kajoli represents the quiet resilience of the
oppressed, resisting submission to the forces that seek to exploit her
vulnerability.
Kajoli’s journey is one of transformation
from passivity to empowerment. In the beginning, she is portrayed as an
innocent, dependent on her family and their rural lifestyle. However, as the
famine intensifies, she is forced to take control of her own life. This
reflects Gandhi's belief in self-reliance and the empowerment of women to take
charge of their destinies. Her struggles during the famine, and her fight to
maintain her dignity, reflect Gandhi’s emphasis on the moral and inner strength
of women. Gandhi believed that women could lead through their ability to endure
and resist, and Kajoli’s story exemplifies this, as she becomes a symbol of
quiet but powerful resistance to exploitation.
Meenakshi Mukherjee: In her analysis, she
appreciates the character Kajoli as a symbol of innocent suffering who
transforms into a figure of immense strength. She believes Kajoli's journey
represents the impact of socio-political turmoil on ordinary individuals,
especially women.
Through Kajoli’s experiences, Bhattacharya
critiques the patriarchal structures that lead to the oppression of women, a concern
deeply rooted in Gandhian philosophy. Kajoli’s vulnerability to exploitation
during the famine, including the threat of sexual violence, reflects the
gender-based injustices that Gandhi sought to address through his advocacy for
women’s rights and equality. Kajoli’s resistance to being dehumanized, even in
the face of poverty and starvation, underscores her commitment to maintaining
her dignity. This echoes Gandhi’s belief in the fundamental dignity of every
individual, regardless of gender, and his call for the protection of women from
exploitation and abuse.
Indira Bhatt: In her study of Bhattacharya’s
works, Bhatt points out Kajoli's evolution as a representation of feminine
resilience. She suggests that Kajoli’s character embodies the struggle against
patriarchal norms, reflecting Gandhi's vision of empowered womanhood.
In the end, Kajoli’s survival and resilience
reflect Gandhi’s belief in hope and the capacity for renewal. Despite all the
hardships she faces, Kajoli retains a sense of inner strength, symbolizing the
possibility of rebuilding and regeneration after a period of great suffering. Her
determination to survive and maintain her integrity, even when it seems
everything is lost, exemplifies the hope Gandhi placed in women as the bearers
of social and moral regeneration. Kajoli becomes a symbol of survival against
all odds, representing the potential for social renewal and justice.
Kajoli’s character in "So Many
Hungers!" stands as a powerful example of Gandhi’s vision of gender
justice and equality. Through her journey, Bhattacharya illustrates how women,
even in the face of overwhelming adversity, possess the strength to resist
oppression and retain their dignity. Kajoli’s transformation from an innocent
village girl to a symbol of resilience and empowerment mirrors Gandhi’s belief
in the power of women to be agents of change, making her one of the best
literary representations of Gandhian ideals.
Conclusion:
Thus Bhabani Bhattacharya's So Many Hungers!
stands as a novel deeply rooted in Gandhi's perspective, embodying his ideals
of non-violence, equality, and empathy. Through its vivid portrayal of human
suffering during the Bengal famine and its critique of social injustice and
exploitation, the novel captures Gandhi's vision of a society built on
compassion, moral integrity, and the upliftment of the marginalized.
Bhattacharya's narrative, with its emphasis on the dignity of individuals in
the face of adversity, ultimately reinforces Gandhi's belief in the
transformative power of truth and humanity.
Gandhi's perspective on gender justice and equality is of immense importance in today’s society, where gender-based challenges persist. His vision of a society where women are empowered, educated, and treated as equals provides a timeless blueprint for achieving true gender equality. By embracing Gandhi’s ideals, we can work toward creating a world that respects, values, and uplifts women, ensuring that they have equal opportunities to contribute to building a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society.
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