A SUITABLE BOY, A FEMINIST PERSPECTIVE ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT
S. Jayamohan
Assistant Professor
Sona College of Arts and Science
&
Dr. M. Aravindh
Assistant Professor
Department of English
Sona College of Arts and Science
Abstract:
The inherent equality bestowed upon men and women by
nature has been disrupted by societal norms, perpetuating inequality and
exploitation. The patriarchal values that underpin these norms have led to a
history of systemic oppression, marginalization, and exclusion of women from
various spheres of life. Various religious philosophies, including Hinduism,
Islam, and Christianity, have historically reinforced these patriarchal values,
limiting women's agency, autonomy, and opportunities. However, Vikram Seth's
literary works challenge these norms, advocating for women's empowerment,
equality, and rights. As a prominent feminist writer, Seth's novels, including
the sprawling A Suitable Boy, feature multifaceted women characters from
diverse backgrounds, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and resilience. This
paper examines the portrayal of women in highlighting Seth's nuanced
exploration of their roles, struggles, and triumphs, and arguing that his work
is a significant contribution to feminist literature. This paper analyzes the
representation of women in A Suitable Boy, showcasing Seth's commitment to
feminist ideals and his contribution to the ongoing conversation about women's
rights and empowerment. Patriarchal values, reinforced by various religious
philosophies, have confined women to restrictive roles, limiting their agency,
autonomy, and opportunities. The impact of these norms is evident in the
systemic oppression, marginalization, and exclusion of women from various
spheres of life. Vikram Seth's literary works, particularly A Suitable Boy,
subvert these norms, promoting women's empowerment and equality. This paper
explores the complex portrayal of women in A Suitable Boy, highlighting Seth's nuanced
feminist commentary and his contribution to the feminist literary tradition.
Keywords: Oppression, Marginalization, Struggles,
Triumphs, Resilience, Inequality and Exploitation
Vikram Seth is a prominent
figure in Indian English literature, renowned for his versatility as a
novelist, travel writer, librettist, children's author, biographer, and
memoirist. His works demonstrate exceptional depth and complexity, showcasing
his mastery of the English language. Born on June 20, 1952, in Calcutta, West Bengal,
Seth's early life was marked by frequent relocations due to his father Prem
Seth's executive role at Bata India Limited. Seth's mother, Leila Seth, was a
trailblazing figure in her own right, becoming the first woman judge at the
Delhi High Court and later serving as the chief justice of the Himachal Pradesh
High Court. Her remarkable achievements, including studying law in London while
pregnant and passing the bar examination just a week after giving birth, had a
profound impact on Seth's life and writing.
Seth's family has played a
significant role in shaping his literary career. His younger brother, Shantum,
is a Buddhist, while his sister, Aradhana, is a filmmaker married to an
Austrian diplomat. Aradhana's work in films like Deepa Mehta's "Earth"
and "Fire" has also contributed to the family's creative legacy.
Seth's parents, particularly his mother, have been a constant source of
inspiration for him. Leila Seth's memoir, "On Balance," reveals that
many characters in Seth's novel "A Suitable Boy" are composites, but
Haresh, a leather factory worker, is modeled after Prem Seth. The influence of
his parents' diverse backgrounds and interests is evident in Seth's writing,
which often explores themes of family, identity, and social hierarchy.
Vikram Seth's educational
journey took him to various institutions around the world. He began his
academic pursuits at a public school in Dehradun, before moving on to Corpus
Christi College, Oxford, where he earned his B.A. degree. He then enrolled in
Stanford University in California, USA, to pursue his Ph.D., although he
ultimately did not complete his research work. Undeterred, Seth traveled to
China and joined Nanjin University from 1980 to 1982, where he continued his
doctoral studies. Seth's academic experiences were instrumental in shaping his
literary career. His teacher, Timothy Steele, recognized his talent and
encouraged him to write, providing valuable support and guidance. As a result,
Seth developed into a skilled creative writer.
Seth's extensive travels
and education exposed him to diverse cultures, religions, and geographical
backgrounds. He lived in various parts of Asia, America, China, London, Vienna,
and Venice, accumulating a wealth of experiences that would later inform his
writing. His global travels granted him a unique advantage: a broad
understanding of life and the ability to communicate across cultural
boundaries, including Indian, European, Chinese, and American perspectives.
Vikram Seth's literary repertoire includes three novels, each possessing a
distinct character that sets it apart from the others. These novels differ
significantly in terms of theme and technique, captivating readers with their
unique features. Seth's debut novel, The Golden Gate, is a notable achievement,
as it is the first Indian novel written in verse. This innovative work earned
Seth the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 1988.
The Golden Gate is a
masterful blend of poetry and narrative, comprising 594 sonnets written in
iambic tetrameter. The novel's five main characters - John Brown, Janet
Hawakaya, Liz Dorati, Phil, and Ed Dorati - are intricately interconnected,
despite hailing from diverse backgrounds, cities, and professions. This complex
web of relationships offers a nuanced exploration of society, highlighting the
intersections and divergences of individual lives. Vikram Seth's literary
career is marked by the publication of three novels, each distinct in character
and approach. Following the success of "A Suitable Boy", Seth
published "An Equal Music" in 1999, a novel set in London with
Western Classical Music as its backdrop. This novel was awarded the EMMA (BT
Ethnic and Multi-cultural Media Award) in 2001. It is a poignant tale of
musicians dedicated to their craft, with music presented as a noble addiction.
The novel explores the intricate relationship between music and love through
the story of Michael Holme and Julia McNichol, two musicians bound together by
their passion for music.
Vikram Seth's magnum opus,
A Suitable Boy, published in 1993, is a seminal work deeply rooted in Indian
culture and society. This novel, which catapulted Seth to national and
international acclaim, explores the quest for a suitable husband for Lata, the
protagonist, against the backdrop of post-independence India. The novel delves
into the experiences and entanglements of four affluent Indian families
connected through marriage or friendship, showcasing the complexities of Indian
society during a pivotal moment in the country's history.
The novel's narrative
revolves around Mrs. Rupa Mehra's search for a suitable bridegroom for her
younger daughter, Lata, who has completed her graduation from Brahmpur
University. Lata has three suitors: Kabir Durani, Amit Chatterjee, and Haresh
Khanna. Through this central theme, the novel explores various sub-themes,
including the intricacies of Indian familial customs, religious traditions, and
social hierarchies.
A Suitable Boy is a sweeping narrative that presents a
panoramic view of India in the 1950s, a time of great social, political, and
economic change. The novel is divided into 19 sections with sub-sections, and
its monumental length of 1349 pages is a testament to Seth's masterful
storytelling. By interweaving the lives of four elite families – the Mehras,
the Chatterjees, the Kapoors, and the Khans – Seth presents a nuanced portrayal
of Indian society, highlighting the tensions between tradition and modernity.
As a realist and social writer, Seth has skillfully delineated the complexities
of Indian life in the 1950s, a time when the country was navigating the
challenges of nation-building under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru. Seth's
admiration for Nehru is evident throughout the novel, which is often referred
to as a "Nehruvian novel". By incorporating a diverse range of
characters from various religious, linguistic, and caste backgrounds, Seth has
created a rich tapestry that reflects the complexities of Indian society.
Vikram Seth's novel, A
Suitable Boy, exhibits a distinctive feature that captures our attention: its
narrative bookends, which commence and conclude with wedding ceremonies. The
novel begins with the marriage of Savita Mehra, Mrs. Rupa Mehra's elder
daughter, to Pran, the son of a prominent political family, and concludes with
the union of Lata Mehra, the younger daughter, and Haresh Khanna, a man from a
non-elite background. This framing device serves to engage readers and
underscore the significance of marriage in Indian society. However, Seth's
primary focus extends beyond the realm of matrimony, delving into the complexities
of post-independence Indian society in the 1950s. The novel explores a
multitude of themes, including parliamentary politics, the aftermath of
partition, the zamindari abolition bill, communal tensions, and the first
general election of 1952. Additionally, Seth sheds light on the social ills of
the time, such as poverty, corruption, prostitution, and untouchability,
thereby crafting a rich tapestry that reflects the intricacies of Indian
society during this pivotal era.
As the novel highlights, Mrs.
Mehra commands respect and admiration from those around her. At Savita's
wedding, guests greet her with namastes and smiles, acknowledging her prominent
position in Brahmpur society. Vikram Seth vividly captures this moment, noting:
"Several guests were indeed doing namaste to Mrs. Rupa Mehra and smiling
at her; the cream of Brahmpur society, she was delighted to note." Lata
Mehra, the protagonist of the novel, is a multifaceted character adorned with
qualities that epitomize an ideal woman, as envisioned by Vikram Seth. She is
an attractive, obedient, and educated individual, having graduated from
Brahmpur University. Lata embodies the qualities of an exemplary daughter,
never transgressing the boundaries set by her mother. Despite her adolescent
emotions, she exercises self-control, particularly in her relationship with
Kabir Durani, a Muslim. Her conscience prevents her from disappointing her
mother, and she continually strives to avoid actions that might provoke her
mother's anger.
Savita, Lata's elder
sister, is depicted as a paragon of virtue, living a peaceful life after her
marriage to Pran. She is an exemplary daughter, wife, mother, and
daughter-in-law, and her relationship with Pran is portrayed as an ideal
partnership. Savita's love and concern for her sister Lata are evident, as she
consistently offers solace and support during times of distress. Through the
portrayal of these two sisters, Vikram Seth presents a nuanced exploration of
the roles and expectations associated with women in Indian society during the
1950s: “Life is merely froth and bubble. Two things stand like stone. Kindness
in another’s trouble, Courage in our own”.
Maggu Gopal, the skilled
masseur of Pran Kapoor, is portrayed by Vikram Seth as a vocal advocate for the
importance of women in life. During a conversation with Pran, Maggu emphasizes
the crucial role women play in a man's success. He cites the example of
Napoleon, who owed his greatness to the unwavering support of his wife,
Josephine. Maggu asserts that behind every accomplished man stands a woman who
has contributed significantly to his achievements. He eloquently expresses his
admiration for women, highlighting their indispensable presence in a man's
life:
“Behind every successful man is a woman.
Behind Mr. Napoleon there was Josephine. Not that you have to be married. I do
not believe it. In fact, I predict that you have had auspicious women in your
life before and will continue to after Marriage (865 ASB).
Vikram Seth, a champion of
women's rights, uses his novel as a platform to advocate for the empowerment
and dignity of women in Indian society. He vehemently condemns the injustices,
atrocities, and exploitation faced by women in a patriarchal society. Through
the character of Malti, an active member of the Socialist Party, Seth gives
voice to the struggles and aspirations of women. Malti passionately advocates
for the restoration of women's honor and respect, which she believes was once
theirs in ancient times. Seth's narrative echoes Malti's sentiments, emphasizing
the need for a societal shift towards recognizing and valuing the contributions
and dignity of women.
“The time has come when
woman must be restored to the status she occupied in ancient India: we must
combine the best of the past and the present, of the West and the East”.
Vikram Seth's novel, A
Suitable Boy, presents a profound feminist perspective, echoing the sentiments
of feminist ideology. Seth advocates for women's rights, equality, and
empowerment, condemning the atrocities and injustices faced by women in a
patriarchal society. He champions the cause of women's liberation, seeking to
dismantle the social, cultural, economic, and political barriers that hinder
their progress. Through his narrative, Seth emphasizes the importance of
providing women with equal opportunities, access to education, and economic
independence, believing that empowering women is essential for the betterment
of families, society, and the nation as a whole. His advocacy extends to
various aspects of women's lives, including education, economic independence,
social and cultural freedom, and political participation, contributing to a
broader conversation about women's rights and empowerment, and highlighting the
need for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Works Cited
Seth,
Vikram, A Suitable Boy, Viking Penguin India, 1993.
Sinha,
Prerna, Vikram Seth: The Suitable Writer: A Critical Response Creative Books,
2007.
Prasad,
Murari, Vikram Seth’s A Suitable Boy, An Anthology of Recent Criticism,
Pencraft International, 2005.
Singh,
Pramod Kumar, Major Indo-English Novelists and Novels: Jaipur: Sublime
Publication, 2001.
Gupta,
Roopali, Vikram Seth’s Art: An Appraisal. New Delhi:Allantic Publishers
and Distributors, 2005.
Majumdar,
Maya. Social Status of Women in India, New Delhi: Dominant 2004.