Amplifying the Silenced Voices: Exploring Marginalized Women's Narratives in the Fiction of Bama through a Comparative Analysis of 'Karukku' and 'Sangati'

Abstract

    This article explores the deep impact of India's famous Dalit writer Bama on Dalit literature, culture and consciousness. Bhama's literary works, including "Karuku" and "Sangathi", reflect her personal experiences as a Dalit Christian woman facing discrimination from upper-caste Hindus and dominant-caste Christians in Tamil Nadu. Her writing is a mix of autobiography and political expression, serving as a powerful voice against the injustice meted out to Dalit women. Through a close examination of Bama's major works, this article explores the complex themes of race, gender, religion and backwardness in the context of Dalit identity. In addition, it explores Bama's innovative narrative techniques, linguistic inventions, non-linear structures and humour that challenge established norms and amplify the voices of the marginalized. This scholarly journey through Bhama's literary contributions sheds light on the complex layers of caste, gender and empowerment in Indian society.

Keywords– Karuku, Sangathi, Discrimination, Upper-caste Hindus, Dominant-caste Christians,