Truth Unmasked: The Voice of an Indian Transwoman in The Truth about Me: A Hijra Life Story


Abstract views: 447 / PDF downloads: 163

Authors

  • Dr. Mohd Shamim Associate Professor, Department of English, Halim Muslim PG College, Affiliated to CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India,Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5172-6512
  • Dr. Bushra Assistant Professor, Department of English, Halim Muslim PG College, Affiliated to CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India,Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University https://orcid.org/0009-0008-6982-4274

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53032/tcl.2023.8.5.01

Keywords:

Hijra, Miserable conditions, Gender discrimination, Outcast, Transwoman, Gender identity, Intersectionality, Indian sociopolitical milieu, Resistance, Self-narrative, Human rights, Marginalized voices, Gender studies

Abstract

The present research article delves deep into the autobiography, The Truth about Me: A Hijra Life Story, to unmask the intricate tapestry of challenges, prejudices, and triumphs faced by Revathi, an Indian transwoman. Revathi’s autobiography transcends the boundaries of a mere autobiographical narrative, as it assumes the role of a seminal work that enriches our comprehension of the intricate dynamics pertaining to gender, caste, and social marginalization within the context of India. It serves as a poignant testament to the resilience and defiance of an Indian transwoman amidst socio-cultural adversities.  Through the utilization of a narrative approach characterized by a combination of intimacy and directness, Revathi effectively elicits emotional and intellectual engagement from the reader, thereby transforming her story into a compelling and evocative plea for action. The author’s emphasis on topics such as intersectionality and social stigma renders this piece essential for individuals with an inclination towards gender studies, social justice, and Indian culture. The present article critically examines Revathi's voice as an instrument of both resistance and revelation. On one hand, her story confronts and critiques the entrenched societal norms that perpetuate discrimination against the hijra community. On the other, it illuminates the internal struggles and moments of epiphany that define her personal journey of self-realization. The article sheds light on the sociocultural dynamics that intertwine with Revathi's identity as a hijra, her caste background, and her positioning within the broader Indian sociopolitical milieu. This research article accentuates the autobiography's significance in amplifying marginalized voices, thereby contributing to the broader discourse on gender, identity, and human rights in the contemporary Indian context.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Green, S. (2019). “Authenticity in Gender Narratives.” Gender Studies Quarterly, 21(1), 30-42.

Gupta, R. (2017). “Intersectionality in South Asia: A Case Study.” Journal of Social Justice, 31(1), 85-97.

Jain, R. (2020). “Transgender Narratives in Educational Settings.” Journal of Educational Diversity, 15(2), 55-65.

Patel, M., & Kumar, A. (2018). “Marginalization and Social Exclusion in Modern India.” Journal of Social Policy, 40(2), 110-125.

Revathi, A. The Truth About Me: A Hijra Life Story. Penguin Books, 2010.

Sharma, N. (2021). “Advocating for Trans Rights in India.” Journal of Policy & Governance, 28(1), 25-38.

Smith, J. (2015). “Transgender Narratives and the Question of Identity.” Journal of Gender Studies, 24(2), 200-212.

Williams, L. (2016). “The Power of the First Person in Autobiographical Narratives.” Journal of Literary Studies, 32(1), 40-55.

Downloads

Published

2023-10-31

How to Cite

Dr. Mohd Shamim, and Dr. Bushra. “Truth Unmasked: The Voice of an Indian Transwoman in The Truth about Me: A Hijra Life Story”. The Creative Launcher, vol. 8, no. 5, Oct. 2023, pp. 1-11, doi:10.53032/tcl.2023.8.5.01.

Issue

Section

Research Articles

Similar Articles

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 > >> 

You may also start an advanced similarity search for this article.