Beyond The Borders Of The West-Redefining Feminism From A South Asian Perspective

Kanika Dutt, University of Galway, Ireland

INTRODUCTION

“When a woman, whom we call abala becomes sabala, all those who are helpless will become powerful” - Mahatma Gandhi

Abala means ‘one without strength’ in Sanskrit, encapsulating the traditional view of women as weak and inferior. Human history is a complex tapestry with diverse stories of empires, kingdoms, colonialism, freedom fighters, wars, etc. Our History has been a relentless pursuit of fight against injustices, but we have to ask ourselves, at the end of everything, Who gets free? and Who gets the power? As society progressed, women tried to break free from the shackles of traditional norms and societal expectations, and with globalization, the concept of gender equality crossed all geographic boundaries. However, amidst the evolution of women's empowerment, quiet yet profound voices are waiting to be heard in the diverse lands of South Asia.