Gender Parity in Indian Mythology: A Feminist Reading of the Texts on Shiva

Abstract

Several measures are often taken to minimise the molestations and crimes faced by women. Female feminists are actively seen taking cudgels opposing the unjust behaviour being conducted against women. However, the accounts of males promoting the notion of feminism are still lacking or hardly find any pertinent in contemporary society. Some characters from Indian mythology too are portrayed as strong believers of gender uniformity. Feminist studies have already been conducted on female characters, for example, Ahalya, Sita, Draupadi, etc. This paper focuses on the character of Shiva, who being in the somatic body of patriarchy stood up for the rights of women and affirmed the idea of gender parity. He sets an example for contemporary men, encouraging gender equality. By the dint of his various life incidents, the way he treats his consort and values the individuality of women around him, this paper analyses Shiva through the lens of feminism.