Indian feminisms: Issues of sexuality and representation

Gangoli, G.

Abstract

Indian feminism is characterised above all by its passionate allegiance to polyvocality, and respect for difference and differences. This chapter will explore the diverse responses of Indian feminisms to shifting patriarchal challenges in the context of consolidation of globalisation and right-wing politics, and the role of law within these discourses. This will be done through a study of feminist campaigns against sexual harassment and in favour of sexual freedoms, the former through an assessment of sexual harassment cases and law and the latter through feminist discourses around lesbianism relating to the film Fire (1996). It will thereby assess the diversities within feminist responses to these issues, including the use of law within the campaigns, and whether legal feminisms relating to law and women’s legal rights can be effective in the Indian context.

Citation

Gangoli, G. (2008). Indian feminisms: Issues of sexuality and representation. In K. M. Gokulsing, & W. Dissanayake (Eds.), Popular Culture in a Globalised India (53 - 65). Routledge Taylor & Francis Group. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203884065

• Publication Date: 2008
• Deposit Date: Jul 22, 2020
• Pages: 53 - 65
• Edition: 1st ed.
• Book Title: Popular Culture in a Globalised India
• Chapter Number: 4
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203884065