Women in Dalit Literature in P. Sivakami’s the Grip of Change

Abstract

Dalit literature has emerged as a powerful medium for expressing the experiences of marginalized communities in India. It challenges the oppressive caste system and exposes the social, political, and economic injustices faced by Dalits. Within this discourse, Dalit women occupy a unique position as they experience both caste discrimination and gender oppression. This article examines the representation of Dalit women in Indian English Dalit literature with special reference to P. Sivakami’s novel The Grip of Change. The study analyzes how the novel portrays the intersection of caste and patriarchy while highlighting the struggles of Dalit women for dignity, justice, and identity. The article argues that the novel not only critiques upper-caste dominance but also questions patriarchal structures within Dalit communities, thus contributing significantly to Dalit feminist discourse.