Cultural Hegemony and Systemic Intolerance: Mapping the Politics of Exclusion in The God of Small Things

Rusav Kumar Sahu; Krishna Pratap Singh

Authors

Rusav Kumar Sahu Research Scholar in English, Faculty of Arts, ommunication and Indic Studies, Sri Sri University, Odisha, India https://orcid.org/0009-0009-2312-478X
Krishna Pratap Singh Dr. Krishna Pratap Singh is Professor of English, at the Institute of Indian and Foreign Languages, MGM University, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra

Keywords:

Postcolonial literature, cultural hegemony, systemic intolerance, gender discrimination, caste politics, Kerala society

Abstract

Aim: This paper examines Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things through the lens of cultural hegemony and systemic intolerance, analyzing how the novel portrays various forms of social exclusion within Kerala's socio-cultural landscape. The research aims to map the intersecting hierarchies of caste, gender, and class that perpetuate systems of oppression and marginalization in postcolonial India.

Methodology and Approach: The study employs a critical analysis framework combining postcolonial theory and cultural studies. Through close textual analysis of the novel, supported by secondary scholarly sources, this research examines key scenes and character relationships that illuminate patterns of social exclusion.

Outcome: The analysis reveals how Roy masterfully depicts the intricate web of social oppression through multiple narrative threads. The study particularly highlights how the novel's non-linear narrative structure mirrors the fragmented experiences of characters struggling against systemic intolerance.

Conclusion and recommendation: Future research should explore comparative analyses of Roy's work with other postcolonial texts addressing similar themes of cultural hegemony. Additionally, scholars should investigate how Roy's portrayal of systemic intolerance in Kerala can inform broader discussions of social justice in contemporary India. The study recommends examining the novel's relevance to current debates on gender equality and caste discrimination in Indian society.

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Author Biography

Rusav Kumar Sahu, Research Scholar in English, Faculty of Arts, ommunication and Indic Studies, Sri Sri University, Odisha, India

Rusav Kumar Sahu is Research Scholar in English, Faculty of Arts, Communication and Indic Studies, Sri Sri University, Odisha, India. Rusav Kumar Sahu is a Research Scholar in English at the Faculty of Arts, Communication, and Indic Studies, Sri Sri University, Odisha, India. A dedicated researcher and academician, he has published papers in renowned journals, presented at prestigious conferences, and delivered insightful guest talks. His work reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge in English studies while fostering academic discourse. With a passion for research and teaching, he continues to contribute significantly to his field.

Dr. Krishna Pratap Singh is Professor of English, at the Institute of Indian and Foreign Languages, MGM University, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India. Dr. K. P. Singh is an academician with diverse expertise and a passion for teaching, research, and organisational administration. Currently serving as a Professor of English and Director at the Institute of Indian and Foreign Languages, MGM University, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India, Dr Singh brings twenty years of extensive professional experience to his role. His area of interest encompasses postcolonial studies, Indian intellectual tradition, religious and mythological studies, Indian writing in English, professional communication, and value education. Under Dr Singh's guidance, one research scholar has successfully obtained her doctoral degree, and he is currently supervising the research work of five PhD students. His research papers have been published in renowned national and international journals, including Scopus, ABDC, Web of Science ESCI, UGC Care, and peer-reviewed, showcasing his commitment to scholarly pursuits.