A PORTRAYAL OF GENDER INEQUALITY AND DISCRIMINATION IN ANITA DESAI’S FASTING, FEASTING

Abstract

Anita Desai is one of the most prominent Indian women fiction writers who has produced a plethora of masterpieces majorly depicting the condition of women in Indian society. Desai’s Fasting, Feasting, first published in 1999 and was in the same year shortlisted for the Booker Prize for fiction. Her novel portrays a typical Indian family where gender inequality and discrimination are customary. The deep-rooted patriarchal mind set and male-biased attitude of Indian society are presented through the characters of the novel. The novel through the female protagonist, Uma, highlights the fate of a single woman who lacks financial security and independence. Desai in her novel portrays woman as an embodiment of sacrifice and selfless service. Fasting, Feasting also offers typical Oriental and Occidental anecdotes regarding gender inequality, sensitivity, and culture. The present study deals with Anita Desai’s portrayal of gender inequality and discrimination in the selected novel. The paper tries to analyze the psychological plights and traumatic experiences of the women in our gender biased society. It also highlights the role of the family in the foundation of a child and in instilling moral values. The paper is also an attempt to question gender disparity and age-old patriarchal norms.