SUPPRESSION OF FEMALE DESIRE UNDER PATRIARCHAL SOCIETY: A FEMININE CRITIQUE OF BAPSI SIDHWA’S SELECTED SHORT STORIES

Abstract

The proposed research aims to delve into the enduring struggle of women within the patriarchal framework of Pakistani society, using the anthology "Their Language of Love" (2013) as its focal point. Bapsi Sidhwa, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s foremost English-language writers, has penned four globally acclaimed novels from 1978 to 1993, all translated into numerous languages. Not only celebrated for her literary prowess, Sidhwa has been an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, actively engaging in public discourse and political activism in Pakistan. Despite her prominence in Pakistani literature, Sidhwa remains relatively obscure in Europe, prompting the necessity for a broader recognition of her as both a writer and feminist figure. In stark contrast to the societal objectification of women, Sidhwa's narratives delve into the intimate lives of women within the confines of their private quarters, where they find solace in unfiltered discourse among female peers and family. She illuminates the dichotomy between the external, male-dominated sphere and the internal, female-centric world, providing a platform for women to voice their innermost thoughts and desires. Addressing themes of female sexuality, often overlooked in Pakistani literature, Sidhwa's collection portrays a spectrum of female characters grappling against patriarchal forces, entrenched in traditions, cultural constraints, and social expectations. These stories depict women navigating through challenges such as domestic abuse, coerced marriages, societal marginalization, and the imposition of male-centric laws, showcasing Sidhwa's steadfast commitment to championing the female cause through the medium of the novel.