Gender Studies

Senem GURKAN   
Associate Professor, Ondokuz Mayis University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Social Work, Samsun, Türkiye.

^{Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 18, Issue 1, 2026. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v18n1.05
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Abstract

This research aims to compare the perceived loneliness levels and experiences of elderly women living in urban and rural areas of Samsun province in Türkiye. Methods: The study was conducted using a mixed research method, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative analyses. It is grounded in the theory of intersectionality, focusing on femininity and the intersecting experiences of elderly individuals living alone. Quantitative data were collected from 174 elderly women, while qualitative data were obtained from 16 of those women. The findings showed no statistically significant differences in any sub-scales of loneliness across different age groups of women. Additionally, interviews with participants indicated that social isolation and loneliness, limited access to social services for the elderly, and daily living challenges along with the need for physical assistance are common issues faced by lonely elderly women in both settings. Nevertheless, when analyzing the rural and urban groups separately, context-specific themes emerged, indicating that women from these groups also face unique challenges. This point relates to intersectionality theory, demonstrating that aging and gender do not act in isolation; instead, they interact with structural and contextual inequalities, leading to diverse experiences of loneliness.

Keywords: Loneliness, older women, elderly women, rural and urban, Türkiye, intersectionality.

Ramya M. H.^1* & Shashikantha Koudur^2
1Ph.D. Scholar, School of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Management, National Institute of Technology, Karnataka, Surathkal, Srinivasnagar Post, Mangalore – 575025, India. *Corresponding Author
²Professor, School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Management, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Srinivasnagar post, Mangalore-575025, India.

^{Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 17, Issue 3, 2025. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v17n3.01g
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Abstract

Feminist autobiographical writings often serve the purpose of legitimising the author’s praxis/professional life and partake in the process of reshaping their identity. This article argues that Indian classical dancer Protima Bedi’s posthumously released memoir — an example of ecriture féminine – is a personal space to confide and create a new sense of self. The paper gives a glimpse of Protima’s transforming identities in different stages of her life. This paper tries to explore her memoir as a rebuttal to the media and hullabaloo it created with her persona. Exploring a love-hate relationship between Protima and the media, this article focuses on how the autobiographical writing, traversing through the past and the present, attempts to reclaim the lost ground through legitimisation by confiding.

Keywords: Protima Bedi, memoir, media, rebuttal, ecriture feminine, legitimising, confiding

Senem GURKAN 
Associate Professor, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkiye. 

^{Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 17, Issue 2, 2025. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v17n2.06g
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Abstract

This research aims to achieve an in-depth understanding of the roles of fathers who have a child with special needs in the context of gender roles. Conducted through the periods and techniques of the qualitative research paradigm, the data were collected using an in-depth interview technique with a semi-structured interview form, which included socio-demographic questions and some open-ended questions. The participants consist of 21 fathers living in Samsun province and having children with special needs. The results suggest that four themes can be generated from the interviews with fathers, such as egalitarian parenting, a lesser parent with masculine roles, a shift in parental roles and forced maternity of a father. It can be concluded that all the fathers are aware of the burden and heavy work of mothers, some trying to share the responsibilities with their wives, while others believe this is a duty of mothers. In any case, either egalitarian or traditional, the fathers are under the influence of gender stereotypes.

Keywords: Gender roles, child with special needs, father, fathering.

Khum Prasad Sharma  
Lecturer in English, Padmakanya Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal. 

^{Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.14
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Abstract

This study examines the multilayered concept of resistance in Arundhati Roy’s novels The God of Small Things (1997) and The Ministry of Utmost Happiness (2017). By foregrounding the voices of marginalized individuals, Roy critically examines systemic inequalities, caste discrimination, and state violence. While existing literary scholarship acknowledges the victimization and marginalization of subaltern women under traditional gender roles, caste systems, politics, and religion, this research highlights how these women actively resist such injustices. Utilizing theoretical frameworks from Guha, Spivak, Gramsci, and Crenshaw, the paper explores the intersectionality of personal and political resistance. It discusses Roy’s critique of power structures and her advocacy for justice and human dignity. Thus, the study unveils the layers of defiance in Roy’s unique portrayal of varied resistance strategies in her narratives.

Keywords: Resistance, violence, injustices, subaltern consciousness, political resistance, gender and identity.

Aditi Chawla^1*  & Grace Maria Jochan^{2  
1,2} Research Department of Counselling and Psychology, St. Joseph’s University (Bangalore), India. *Corresponding author.

^{Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.13
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Abstract

The specific challenges faced by cisgender queer women navigating discrimination and marginalization, particularly in non-WEIRD contexts, are rarely addressed in academic literature. This study aims to understand the nuanced experiences of cisgender queer women residing in non-WEIRD contexts, with a particular focus on the intersections of identity, cultural influences, self-acceptance, prejudice, and social location. Drawing on theories like intersectionality, the research highlights the complex interplay between various dimensions of identity and how they shape lived realities. Using a sample of young adults aged 18 to 29 who identify as cisgender queer women, it thematically explores the influence of social and cultural backgrounds on participants’ experiences of sexuality. The findings shed light on the persistent prejudice and stereotyping these women face, rooted in both their sexual orientation and cultural context. By centering these intersections, the research emphasizes the importance of multidimensional approaches in social inquiry and advocacy, fostering greater inclusivity and support for cisgender queer women in non-WEIRD contexts.

Keywords: Intersectionality, cisgender queer women, non-WEIRD contexts, cultural identity, self acceptance, prejudice, stereotyping, thematic analysis.

Mohamed Rashid VP¹  & Sourav V² & Bangalore Morarji^{2  
1}PhD Scholar, CSSEIP, School of Social Sciences, University of Hyderabad.
²PhD scholar in History, Department of Social Sciences, Vellore Institute of Technology
³Associate Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Vellore Institute of Technology. *Corresponding author.

^{Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.07
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Abstract

For over a century, cinema has been an influential medium through which stories are told, and culture is expressed. Stories come to life through filmmaking and exploring various themes, experiences and perspectives. Film’s visual and narrative elements can shape public opinion, subvert social conventions, provoke thinking and significantly impact the culture and social discourse. This study examines the representation of transgender individuals in Malayalam cinema, analysing the evolving narrative landscape and its societal impact. Regardless of a rich cinematic history dating back to the 1930s, Malayalam films have only recently begun to include transgender themes with depth and sensitivity. The study scrutinises early depictions that often resorted to stereotypes and comedic mockery, contrasting them with contemporary portrayals that uphold understanding and acceptance. By dissecting specific films, this work reveals the changing tides in cultural perception and points out the importance of responsible storytelling in media. This study calls for a continued push towards authentic and respectful representation, emphasising the transformative potential of cinema in shaping public attitudes towards the transgender community. This study used historical, content, and discourse analysis as methodology and representation theory as the theoretical framework to examine the portrayal of transgender in Malayalam cinema. 

Keywords: Film Making, Malayalam Cinema, Social Impact, Stereotypes, Transgender Representation.