“LIHAAF”: UNRAVELING THE TAPESTRY OF FEMALE SILENCE AND SUBDUED DESIRES
Tabish Wani
PhD Research Scholar
Lovely Professional University
Phagwara, Punjab,
India
Abstract:
This abstract explores Ismat Chughtai's
iconic short story "Lihaaf" as a profound narrative that delicately
unveils the hidden layers of female silence and subdued desires in a
conservative societal fabric. The story intricately weaves the experiences of
its protagonist, Begum Jan, within the confines of a quilt, serving as both a
physical and metaphorical barrier to the expression of female sexuality and
desires. Through a close examination of Chughtai's storytelling, the abstract
delves into the socio-cultural norms that perpetuate the silence surrounding
women's aspirations and the oppressive forces that stifle their voices. By
unraveling the symbolic tapestry of the quilt, this exploration seeks to shed
light on the nuanced intricacies of female subjugation, emphasizing the
importance of breaking free from societal constraints to foster a more
inclusive and liberated narrative for women.
Keywords: Sexuality, Desire,
Social taboos, Homosexuality, Gender Discrimination
Introduction:
In the literary realm, Ismat Chughtai's "Lihaaf" stands as an
enduring testament to the subtle nuances of female subjugation entrenched within
the fabric of societal norms. Published in 1942, Chughtai's narrative
skillfully navigates the intricate layers of a patriarchal tapestry, unraveling
the hushed tones of women's experiences and desires. Against the backdrop of a
conservative milieu, the story unveils the palpable weight of societal
expectations that cast a shadow over the agency of its protagonist, Begum Jan.
This introduction seeks to illuminate the pervasive nature of female
subjugation depicted in "Lihaaf," offering a lens through which to
analyze the oppressive forces that shroud women's voices and aspirations in a
culture defined by constraints. As we embark on this exploration, we delve into
the silent struggles, unspoken desires, and the overarching theme of female
suppression that resonate within the folds of Chughtai's poignant narrative.
In "Lihaaf," Ismat Chughtai skillfully highlights female
oppression through a nuanced exploration of societal expectations, gender
roles, and the stifling constraints imposed upon women. The narrative unfolds
within the confines of Begum Jan's household, where the ostensibly respectable
exterior conceals the harsh reality of her subjugation. Ismat speaks regarding
her life in her autobiography "when I wrote “Lihaaf" There was a
veritable explosion. I was torn to shreds in the literary arena. Some people
also wielded their pens in my support. Since then I have branded an obscene
writer. No one bothered about the things I have written before or After Lihaaf.
I was put down as a purveyor of sex. It was only in the last couple of years
that younger generation has recognized that I am realist not an obscene writer.
I am still labelled as a writer of Lihaaf the story that has brought me so much
notoriety that I got sick of life. It has become the proverbial stick to beat
me with and whatever I wrote afterwards got crushed under its weight
"Lihaaf" has made my life miserable ". Begum Jahaan he tucked
her away in the house with his other possessions and promptly forgot her. The
Frail, beautiful Begum, wasted away in anguished loneliness.
Cultural Expectations: Chughtai portrays the weight of cultural
expectations that confine Begum Jan to predefined roles. Her identity is
tethered to societal norms, limiting her autonomy and relegating her to the
prescribed duties of a wife.
When Chugtai was on trial for penning pornographic writings it was for
practical reasons that area beneath the quilt remained unnamed, "The scene
is never opened completely in front of the readers. The reader is supposed to get
the meaning from the described scene. He has to imagine and analyse the
situation (kumar, 2021). Suppression of Desires The use of the quilt becomes a
powerful metaphor for the suppression of female desires. The physical and
emotional warmth provided by the quilt becomes a substitute for unfulfilled
emotional and physical needs, symbolizing the silent sacrifices women make to
conform to societal expectations.
Silenced Voices: Begum Jan's voice is metaphorically muted
within the closed doors of her marriage. The narrative underscores how societal
structures often silence women, rendering their aspirations and grievances
unheard
Power Dynamic: Chughtai subtly explores power dynamics
within relationships, revealing how Begum Jan's husband exerts control over her
life. This imbalance of power exemplifies a broader pattern of male dominance
prevalent in the societal framework.
Social Stigma is the fear of social ostracism and the stigma associated
with deviating from prescribed gender roles further oppresses Begum Jan. Chugtai bravely brings attention to the issues
of female sexuality and the hidden urges that women have but are socially
unacceptable. The narrative sheds light on the consequences women face when
challenging societal expectations.
Through these narrative elements, Chughtai masterfully brings to the
forefront the multifaceted layers of female oppression, providing readers with
a poignant reflection on the pervasive challenges faced by women in a society
that often suppresses their voices and curtails their agency.
"Lihaaf" by Ismat Chughtai serves as a poignant exploration of
the neglect of female sexuality and desires, shedding light on societal
attitudes that relegate women's emotional and physical needs to the shadows.
Here's how the text brings forth this theme:
Quilt as a Symbol: The quilt becomes a symbolic representation
of the neglect of female sexuality. Its warmth, initially a source of comfort,
transforms into a stifling confinement, mirroring the suppression of Begum
Jan's unfulfilled desires and the societal constraints that contribute to their
neglect. The narrative subtly reveals Begum Jan's dissatisfaction within her
marriage, emphasizing the neglect of her emotional and sexual needs. The
absence of genuine intimacy and understanding in the relationship accentuates
the broader societal disregard for female desires beyond the prescribed roles
of wife and mother.
Emotional Vacuum: Chughtai portrays a void in Begum Jan's
emotional life, highlighting the neglect of her deeper desires. The emotional
vacuum underscores the societal tendency to prioritize external appearances
over the internal emotional landscape of women.
Isolation and Loneliness: Begum Jan's isolation within the household
echoes the loneliness resulting from the neglect of her desires. The text
suggests that societal expectations and gender norms contribute to the
isolation of women, hindering the fulfillment of their emotional and sexual
needs.
Taboos and Silence: The narrative touches upon the taboos
surrounding female sexuality, enforcing a culture of silence. The hushed tones
and veiled references in the story mirror the broader societal discomfort with
acknowledging and addressing women's sexual desires openly.
Through these narrative elements, Chughtai crafts a compelling commentary
on the pervasive neglect of female sexuality and desires, urging readers to
reflect on the societal structures that contribute to the stifling of women's
emotional and physical fulfillment.
In "Lihaaf," Begum Jan's relationship with her maid servant Rabbu
serves as a subtle yet significant aspect of the narrative, offering insights
into the complexities of power dynamics, companionship, and unspoken
connections within a constrained societal framework.Rabbu becomes Begum Jan's
confidante, providing emotional support in a household marked by neglect and
emotional voids. Their relationship hints at the loneliness experienced by
Begum Jan and the solace she finds in the company of someone who exists outside
the prescribed societal roles.
Silent Understanding: Chughtai portrays a silent understanding
between Begum Jan and Rabbu, emphasizing the unspoken communication that
transcends societal norms. This relationship becomes a refuge where emotions
and desires find expression without the need for explicit articulation. Escape
from Conventional Roles .The bond between Begum Jan and Rabbu challenges
traditional hierarchies, offering a glimpse into an alternative space where
societal roles are momentarily blurred. This subversion becomes a means of
escape for Begum Jan from the confines of her expected duties and
responsibilities.
Power Dynamics: Despite the closeness, the power dynamics
between Begum Jan and Rabbu underscore the broader societal structures. Begum
Jan's economic and social status inevitably influences their relationship,
reflecting the inherent inequalities within the larger context of class and
privilege.
Intimacy Beyond Quilt: The narrative suggests a form of intimacy
between Begum Jan and Rabbu that extends beyond the physical constraints of the
quilt. This intimacy hints at a shared understanding of unmet desires and
unspoken emotions, providing a layer of complexity to their relationship.
In presenting the relationship between Begum Jan and Rabbu, Chughtai
weaves a narrative thread that explores the nuances of connection and
understanding amid the stifling societal norms, adding depth to the broader
commentary on female subjugation and neglected desires within the story.
Conclusion: Ismat Chughtai's "Lihaaf" emerges as a
literary tapestry woven with intricate threads that unravel the profound
complexities of female subjugation, neglected desires, and unconventional
intimacies within the stifling norms of a conservative society. Through the
character of Begum Jan and her relationship with the maid servant Rabbu,
Chughtai deftly explores the silent struggles and unmet desires of women
confined by societal expectations.
The quilt, both a physical and metaphorical barrier, becomes a powerful
symbol of the suppression of female sexuality and the neglect of intimate
yearnings. Begum Jan's struggles within the confines of her marriage echo the
broader societal norms that relegate women to predefined roles, stifling their
agency and emotional fulfillment.
The relationship between Begum Jan and Rabbu adds a layer of complexity
to the narrative, offering a glimpse into a world where companionship
transcends societal hierarchies. However, it also highlights the pervasive
power dynamics influenced by class and privilege, underscoring the challenges
of breaking free from entrenched social structures.
"Lihaaf" prompts readers to reflect on the silent voices,
unspoken desires, and overlooked intimacies of women relegated to the margins
of societal expectations. Chughtai's narrative serves as a timeless exploration
of the universal struggles faced by women in their quest for agency,
fulfillment, and the recognition of their suppressed desires. As the quilt
unfolds, so too does the intricate narrative, leaving readers with a poignant
reminder of the enduring need to challenge and redefine societal norms to
foster a more inclusive and liberated space for women.
Works Cited
Asadauddin, Mohammad, translator. Ismat
Chughtai A Life in Words:Memoirs.Penguin Books, 2012.
Asadauddin, Mohammad, translator. The Quilt
Stories. Penguin. Books, 2021
Kumar, Sukrita Paul and Sadique. Ismat:Her
Life, Her Times. Katha, 2000.
Kumar, D. Sexuality and Self Representation:The
New Women in Ismat Chughtai "The Quilt" 2021