Gender and Society – Page 3 – NICKELED AND DIMED

The Plight and Invisibility of Queer Bahujan Artists

This article examines the intersectional challenges faced by Bahujan Queer artists in India, highlighting the ways caste, gender and sexuality interact to create unique struggles for self-expression and acceptance. Through initiatives, cinema, stand-up comedy and other subversive art forms, these artists use their platforms to confront societal barriers, though mainstream acceptance remains elusive. Art emerges…
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Tailoring Policies for All: Intersectionality and Family Planning

This paper delves into the intricate interplay between state policy and the plethora of societal identities, particularly through the lens of family planning policies and reproductive rights. Through an intersectional framework, the article seeks to showcase the duality of experience of one community, juxtaposed with another, and the unique vulnerabilities at play associated with their…
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Beyond Binary Boxes: The Invisible Struggle of SOGIE-Dalit Identity in India

This paper examines the complex intersectionality of SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression) and Dalit identities in modern India, challenging the prevailing tendency to address discrimination through single-axis frameworks. Through analysis of personal narratives and legal precedents, including the landmark Navtej Singh Johar judgement and the NALSA verdict, the paper argues that the current…
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Deconstructing the Manic Pixie Dream Girl: Reflections on Gender Stereotypes in Cinema and its Societal Implications

The “Manic Pixie Dream Girl” (MPDG) archetype, a whimsical and eccentric female character who exists primarily to inspire and uplift a male protagonist, has become a pervasive trope in literature and cinema. While she may appear enchanting and free-spirited, this character often embodies deeply ingrained gender stereotypes and reinforces patriarchal ideals. This article deconstructs the…
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Is Homosexuality Against Indian Culture?

This article explores the relationship between homosexuality and Indian culture, challenging the widespread belief that homosexuality is alien to Indian traditions. Through an analysis of ancient Indian texts, scriptures, and cultural practices, the article demonstrates that non-heteronormative relationships have existed and been recognized in India for centuries. It argues that the demonization of homosexuality is…
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LEGITIMACY OF TRADITIONS AND CUSTOMS UNDER HINDU MARRIAGES: A FEMINIST APPROACH

This article explores the deep-seated patriarchy in Hindu marriages, where centuries-old rituals and religious texts still shape modern legal norms. For the longest time, marriage has been considered as a sacred bond to be maintained between a heterogeneous couple. Although, with the adoption of The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 and through various judicial developments, marriage…
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The Ideal Man

The article discusses the evolution of male characters throughout the cinematic topography and how they influence the discourses in society. These characters eventually become the “ideal” man that the youth wants to ascribe and adopt. It also discusses the labels and definitions associated with masculinity, as depicted in cinema.
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Confronting the Crisis of Rape Epidemic in India; Challenging the Culture of Impunity in India’s Rape Epidemic

This article explores the reality of sexual violence against women in India, where official data shows a woman is raped every 16 minutes. Despite strides in women’s rights, the pervasive rape culture—fueled by societal silence, stigma, and entrenched patriarchal attitudes—continues to put women at risk. The discussion highlights how cultural norms often shift the blame…
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Looking beyond the lens: A Courtesans’ Lessons for Contemporary Woman

Heeramandi was a much anticipated Netflix Original Series that aimed to showcase the lives of the courtesans in Lahore in Colonial India. While the show aimed to take the audience back to the 20th century, the underlying themes portrayed through it are still relatable in contemporary times. This article seeks to identify these themes and…
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Understanding Intimacy Coordination: Safety, Desire and Censorship

Cinemas have valued the representation of intimacy in various forms, especially romance since time began. However, the ethical extent of such intimate expressions remains a conundrum. Emanating from this conundrum is the emerging role of intimacy coordinators in cinemas. With a gush of excitement around intimacy revolving intercourse in particular comes the direst requirement of…
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Rise of Female Directors in the World of Cinema

The rise of female directors in cinema reflects a significant cultural shift within the film industry, challenging long-standing gender norms and expanding the narrative . This article explores the history, challenges, and accomplishments of female filmmakers, highlighting their unique contributions and the ongoing journey towards equality in the industry and what is the level of…
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Reconceptualizing the ‘Blonde Girl’ Archetype: Analyzing the Subversion of Traditional Gender Roles in Legally Blonde

Abstract This paper explores the subversion of the “blonde girl” archetype in the film Legally Blonde and its broader impact on the representation of women in media. In the past, the stereotype of the “blonde girl” has perpetuated negative gender stereotypes by portraying blonde women as shallow and intellectually inferior. The main character in Legally…
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