The Image of Woman in Hindi Fiction: An Outline of Krishna Sobti’s Select Novels in Translation

Abstract

Krishna Sobti’s all novels are unique. Each has different characters with different set of issues. She is a class in herself when it comes to portrayal of women characters. Woman, undoubtedly is an architect of herself, her individuality as an imaginative being. Her discourse in the novels of Sobti has been balancing. Most of the times, Sobti woman is a strong rebellion of her silence. Her discourse and attitudes are a challenge not only to marginalised position but also their repressed individuality and suppressed desires. Wherever and whenever they raise their voice, their discourse obtains unique identity and recognition. This paper talks about the image of woman in Hindi fiction in general and in the novels of Krishna Sobti in particular. Her three translated novels, to Hell with You Mitro (2007), Sunflower of the Dark (2008), and Memory’s Daughter (2007) have discussed. Sobti presents panoramic image of woman in her novel which have been unmatched hitherto. Her women characters are rebellious, submissive, timid, outspoken, sexually passionate, courtesan, widows, single parent, rape victims, so called Sati-Savitri, stereotype, archetype and many other kinds. She proves herself as the representative fiction writer of Hindi literature.