A Study on Selected Women Writers of Bangladesh and Their Contributions to Feminist Literature PDF

A STUDY ON SELECTED WOMEN WRITERS OF BANGLADESH AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO FEMINIST LITERATURE A REVIEW REPORT Submitted in Partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY in English...

A STUDY ON SELECTED WOMEN WRITERS OF BANGLADESH AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO FEMINIST LITERATURE A REVIEW REPORT Submitted in Partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY in English By Haydor Uddin Enrolment No: - 220155200918 School of Humanities SINGHANIA UNIVERSITY Pacheri Bari, Jhunjhunu (Raj.), India 2023 1  DECLARATION I do here by declare that the Review Report Entitled A STUDY ON SELECTED WOMEN WRITERS OF BANGLADESH AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO FEMINIST LITERATURE submitted for the partial fulfilment of Ph.D. coursework Programme is an authentic and original review work based on my own work. This is to further declare that I have not submitted this review report to any other Institute/University/Publication House for the Publication or Presentation. Signature: - Name of Scholar: Haydor Uddin Enrolment No: -220155200918 Date: 2  Table of Contents S. No. Content Page No. 1 Introduction 4 2 Review of Literature 6 3 Justification and Relevance 9 of the Study 4 References/Bibliography 10 3 INTRODUCTION Throughout history, the contributions of women writers have been few and far between. However, when women did write, they often expressed their diverse experiences through literature, with a particular focus on social struggles and independence. Women writers have used literature as a means to express their inner thoughts, self-discovery, identity, values, and roles in society. Unfortunately, it has always been difficult for women to establish their values in a male-dominated society. Literature has been a powerful tool for women to defend their rights and challenge male domination. In the twentieth century, there was a sudden change in women's writing, with authors like Virginia Woolf, Margaret Atwood, Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, and Purabi Basu exploring women's thinking, imaginations, culture, stories of male domination, women's struggle, and history of breaking oppressive chains. Literature is a reflection of society, and the place of women in the literary world has always been a contentious issue. However, women writers have always found a way to express themselves through literature, challenging male domination and giving voice to women's experiences and concerns. Gender issues have always been a topic in society and literature, and the modernist movement brought a major focus on gender. Women, their intelligence, and their judgment have been regarded with contempt by a male-oriented society, but women writers have been vocal about the complexity of earlier centuries by taking the pen into their own hands for the past three centuries. In the vast realm of literature, the voices of female authors hold a significant position, often challenging societal norms and reshaping our perception of the world. Literature, as a powerful medium of expression, has been instrumental in shaping societal narratives and challenging prevailing norms. In the context of Bangladesh, a rich tapestry of voices emerges from the works of women writers who have not only articulated their personal experiences but have also contributed significantly to the broader discourse of feminist literature. This study endeavours to delve into the literary contributions of selected women writers from Bangladesh, analysing the ways in which their works have served as a lens through which to examine and critique the multifaceted aspects of gender, identity, and societal expectations. Bangladesh, a nation with a complex sociocultural landscape, has witnessed the emergence of a cadre of talented women writers who have navigated the intricate web of patriarchy, tradition, and societal norms. The narratives woven by these authors provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by women in a predominantly patriarchal society and offer a platform for the exploration of feminist ideals. This study aims to shed light on the voices that have transcended boundaries, both geographical and societal, to become catalysts for change and advocates for gender equality. Among the prominent figures to be examined in this study is Taslima Nasrin, a fearless author and activist whose works have sparked discussions on women's rights and secularism. Nasrin's impact is reflected not only in her literary creations but also in the controversies and debates her writings have ignited. 4 Additionally, the study will explore the contributions of Selina Hossain, Shaheen Akhtar, Jahanara Imam, Nimai Bhattacharya, Anwara Syed Haq, and Rizia Rahman, among others, each bringing a unique perspective to the feminist literary landscape of Bangladesh. As we embark on this exploration, it is crucial to acknowledge the diverse themes and narratives these women writers have employed in their works. From tales of resilience and resistance to poignant depictions of societal expectations, the literature produced by these authors serves as a mirror reflecting the multifaceted experiences of women in Bangladesh. By analysing the thematic threads woven into their narratives, this study seeks to unravel the complexities of feminist thought within the cultural and historical context of Bangladesh. This research delves into the works of notable women writers from Bangladesh, exploring the ways in which their writings have contributed to feminist literature. The objective of this study is not only to comprehend their messages but also to analyse the cultural and social influences that shape their unique perspectives. By focusing on these influential writers, our aim is to unravel the complexities of feminism, the layers of identity, and how their narratives have enriched the global discourse on feminism. Through this research, we endeavour to showcase the diverse and impactful ways in which these women transcend boundaries, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between literature, culture, and power. In examining the selected women writers and their contributions to feminist literature, this study aims to contribute to the broader academic discourse on gender studies, literary criticism, and cultural analysis. Through an in-depth exploration of their works, we endeavour to appreciate the profound impact these writers have had on shaping conversations around feminism in Bangladesh, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and aspirations of women in this dynamic and evolving society. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE A Study of the Contributions of Women to the Bangladesh Liberation War: The Role of Cinemas by Nusrat Jahan Nisu (2023). The article offers a compelling examination of a frequently overlooked facet of history: the noteworthy contributions of women during the Bangladesh Liberation War. What sets this piece apart is its ingenuity and inventive method of historical analysis. Nisu skilfully merges the fields of gender studies, history, and film studies to illuminate the diverse roles women played during a crucial juncture in Bangladesh's past. By utilizing cinema as a tool to explore these contributions, the research gains a unique perspective that is both captivating and pertinent. Reflection of Gender Roles and Challenges: 20th century Women’s Writings in Bangladesh by Mrs. Goretti Nipar Shahu (2022). This research paper aimed to delve 5 into the challenges faced by women writers in Bangladesh. It extensively examined the perspectives of these writers on gender roles and discrimination through their notable works. However, it fell short in fully exploring the contributions of women writers in Bangladesh, particularly in the realm of feminist literature. Nonetheless, this paper serves as a valuable source of information on the subject matter and has inspired me to pursue my own research. Searching for Identity in the Writing of Bangladeshi Muslim Writer by Morve Roshan K (2020) is a compelling exploration into the complex theme of identity within the context of Bangladeshi literature. The author meticulously examines the works of Bangladeshi Muslim writers, offering valuable insights into the ways in which identity is constructed and negotiated in their narratives. One of the notable strengths of the paper is its thorough literature review, which provides a solid foundation for the analysis. Morve Roshan K effectively synthesizes existing scholarship on identity, Muslim literature, and Bangladeshi cultural contexts, setting the stage for a nuanced discussion. The paper successfully highlights the nuanced ways in which these writers grapple with questions of belonging and selfhood, contributing to a deeper understanding of the intricate layers that shape identity in the Bangladeshi context. Transnational feminism and women’s activism: Strategies for engagement and empowerment in Bangladesh by Solnara Akhtar (2019). This article has reviewed the strategic experience of individuals and human rights organizations for human rights, women's rights, gender equality and social justice in Bangladesh. Following an empirical research methodology, this article has been written on the four themes: education, engagement, empowerment, and advocacy. The organizations were selected because of their creative concepts, innovative approaches, achievements and impact on the public. The study focuses on how the “Unite for Body Rights” program provides education related to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR); how men from local community engage themselves in promoting gender equality and social justice; how “acid survivors” transform themselves into “survivor ambassadors” and empower themselves as women’s rights activists; and how the five leading human rights organizations in Bangladesh contributed to “banning the ‘two-finger test’ on rape survivors.” This article also evaluates the obstacles faced and marks them as lessons for the future. Portrayal of Women in Taslima Nasreen's Novels (2017). This this research paper provides a compelling analysis of an author known for her bold and controversial perspectives. The paper navigates the complex landscape of Nasreen's literary works, 6 shedding light on the multifaceted representation of women in her narratives. One of the notable strengths of this paper is its comprehensive examination of a diverse range of Nasreen's novels, allowing readers to gain a holistic understanding of the evolving nature of female characters in her oeuvre. The author adeptly employs close literary analysis techniques, drawing attention to the nuances and contradictions within Nasreen's portrayals. This depth of analysis is essential in unpacking the layers of meaning embedded in the characters' experiences. Women as ‘other’ in the short stories of contemporary Bangladeshi writers by Mah- Zareen (2016). This research paper delves into a critical analysis of the portrayal of women in the short stories produced by contemporary Bangladeshi writers. The paper explores the concept of women being positioned as the 'other' within the context of these narratives, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of gender dynamics in Bangladeshi literature. One of the strengths of this paper lies in its meticulous examination of various short stories, providing a comprehensive overview of how women are represented and marginalized. The author effectively utilizes literary analysis techniques to dissect the narratives, uncovering implicit biases and societal reflections embedded in the stories. Mah-Zareen skillfully navigates through the cultural and social landscape, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by female characters in the Bangladeshi literary realm. A Comparative Study of English Women Writers and Bangladeshi Women Writers in the 20th Century: Virginia Woolf and Begum Rokeya (2014). This research paper undertakes a commendable task by delving into a comparative study of two influential women writers from different cultural backgrounds in the 20th century—Virginia Woolf from England and Begum Rokeya from Bangladesh. The juxtaposition of these two literary figures offers a unique lens through which to examine the commonalities and distinctions in the experiences and expressions of women during this pivotal period in literary history. One of the strengths of this paper is the meticulous exploration of the selected authors' works and the contextualization of their writings within the socio- cultural and historical milieus of their respective nations. By choosing Virginia Woolf and Begum Rokeya, the author provides readers with a rich tapestry of perspectives on gender, identity, and societal expectations, creating a nuanced comparative analysis. A Contemplation on 'Sultana’s Dream (2014). The research paper under consideration, which contemplates the literary work 'Sultana’s Dream,' is a thought- provoking exploration into the intricacies of this seminal piece of writing. The paper 7 engages with 'Sultana’s Dream,' a feminist utopian novella by Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, offering readers a nuanced analysis of its themes, socio-political implications, and its place in the broader literary landscape. One of the commendable aspects of the paper is its careful consideration of the historical and cultural context surrounding 'Sultana’s Dream.' The author skillfully situates the novella within the framework of feminist literature and colonial-era Bengal, providing readers with a comprehensive backdrop for understanding Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain's motivations and intentions in crafting this visionary piece. Empowerment of Women in Bangladesh: Not Just Rhetoric (2012). This paper provides a timely and insightful analysis of a crucial subject within the context of Bangladesh. The paper delves into the discourse surrounding the empowerment of women, scrutinizing whether the rhetoric matches the lived experiences of women in the country. One of the commendable aspects of this paper is its robust exploration of the rhetoric surrounding women's empowerment in Bangladesh. The author skillfully navigates through government policies, societal expectations, and cultural narratives to paint a comprehensive picture of the various factors at play. This approach contributes to a well-rounded understanding of the complexities involved in the empowerment discourse. Trafficking of Women in Bangladesh: An Analysis from a Feminist Human- security Framework (2011). The research on the "Trafficking of Women in Bangladesh: An Analysis from a Feminist Human-Security Framework" offers a crucial and nuanced examination of a pressing issue within the Bangladeshi context. By combining the feminist perspective with a human-security framework, the study delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by trafficked women, providing a comprehensive analysis that goes beyond traditional security paradigms. The incorporation of feminist insights suggests an exploration of power dynamics, gender inequalities, and structural factors contributing to trafficking, offering a deeper understanding of the root causes. This approach not only addresses immediate security concerns but also highlights the systemic issues that make women vulnerable to trafficking. The research's interdisciplinary nature likely engages with the complexities of human security, recognizing the need for holistic solutions that consider economic, social, and cultural dimensions. In doing so, the study stands as a valuable contribution to both academic discourse and policy formulation, fostering a deeper understanding of the gendered dimensions of trafficking and advocating for comprehensive, sensitive approaches grounded in the principles of human security and feminist perspectives. 8 JUSTIFICATION AND RELEVANCE OF THE STUDY There are many researches have been done in Bangladesh as well as in India about the contributions of women in various way but not as title. Nusrat Jahan Nisu, Nipar Shahu, Morve Roshan K, Solnara Akhtar have conducted or done research on the contributions of women writer in Bangladesh. And researcher has gone through the mentioned-above literature and attempted to understand how women tried to express themselves through literature in every age. And it has become easy to understand that how they have written about complex issues such as sexuality, submissiveness, suppression and the place of women in society and have shown their protagonists as evolving into mature, confident and strong women. These all researches or articles explores the contributions of women writers in some extend but researcher couldn’t find a single research paper which is on the special reference to Bangladeshi women writers and their contributions in the feminist literature. And there some prominent women writers of Bangladesh who contributed a lot in the feminist literature but their contributions yet be displayed. Prior research on Bangladeshi literature has examined the influence of women writers in shaping the narrative of feminist discourse within the country. Scholars have analyzed the works of prominent Bangladeshi women writers and their thematic focus on gender inequality, social taboos, and female empowerment. However, a comprehensive study specifically focusing on the contributions of selected women writers to feminist literature in Bangladesh is yet to be undertaken. This paper seeks to bridge this gap by reviewing and analyzing the literary contributions of Taslima Nasrin, Selina Hossain, and Shaheen Akhtar, among others, in the context of feminist literature. So, this is a potential area for improvement to display the contributions of women writers of Bangladesh in the feminist literature. The study on selected women writers of Bangladesh and their contributions to feminist literature is profoundly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it acts as a platform to amplify the voices of women writers who have often been marginalized in the broader literary discourse, providing them with an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the global conversation on feminist literature. Secondly, the research enriches the diversity of feminist narratives by exploring how these writers navigate and reflect on the cultural and societal nuances of their Bangladeshi context, thereby contributing to a more inclusive understanding of feminist literature globally. The study's commitment to exploring intersectionality within feminist literature offers a nuanced analysis, considering factors such as ethnicity, class, religion, and regional identity, thus contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of women's experiences. Additionally, by examining the contributions of Bangladeshi women writers alongside those from other regions, the research contributes to the global feminist canon, fostering cross-cultural understanding and expanding the boundaries of feminist literary scholarship. Beyond academia, the study holds 9 practical significance in influencing social discourse by shaping conversations around gender, identity, and empowerment at both local and global levels. It also has the potential to inspire future generations of women writers in Bangladesh, providing role models and encouraging the continued production of feminist literature. Overall, this research is poised to leave a lasting impact on feminist literary studies, cultural representation, and the empowerment of women writers. REFERENCES/BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. Nisu, N. J. (2023). A Study of the Contributions of Women to the Bangladesh Liberation War: The Role of Cinemas. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI), 12(4), 28-35. Retrieved from https://www.ijhssi.org. 2. Shahu, G. N. (2022). Reflection of Gender Roles and Challenges: 20th Century Women’s Writings in Bangladesh. International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts, 10. 3. Roshan, M., & Nashrin, K. A. (2020, August 10). Searching for Identity in the Writing of Bangladeshi Muslim Writer. Journal of World Englishes and Educational Practices, 02(4). 4. Aktar, S. (2019). Transnational feminism and women’s activism: Strategies for engagement and empowerment in Bangladesh. Asian Journal of Women's Studies, 25(2), 285-294. DOI: 10.1080/12259276.2019.1612508. 5. Kothaikani, R., & Sathurappasamy, G. (2017). Portrayal of Women in Taslima Nasreen's Novels. International Journal of Research, 04(09). 6. Mah-Zareen. (2016). Women as 'other' in the short stories of contemporary Bangladeshi writers. BRAC University Journal, 11, 23. 7. Shahu, G. N. (2014). A Comparative Study of English Women Writers and Bangladeshi Women Writers in the 20th Century: Virginia Woolf and Begum Rokeya. Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research, 09. 8. Chakrabarty, P. (2014). A Contemplation on 'Sultana’s Dream'. Space and Culture, India, 2(1), 33. 9. Rahman, M. M. (2012, August). The Empowerment of Women in Bangladesh: Not Just Rhetoric. Institute of South Asian Studies. Retrieved November 9, 2023, from https://www.isas.nus.edu.sg/papers/the-empowerment-of-women-in-bangladesh-not-just- rhetoric/. 10. Das, Shuva, and Leo S.F. Lin. "Trafficking of Women in Bangladesh: An Analysis from a Feminist Human-Security Framework." Georgetown Security Studies Review, vol. 10, no. 2, 201 10