In Search of Unheard Voices: Monologism in U.R. Anantha Murthy’s Samskara: A Rite for a Dead Man

Abstract

Women are frequently oppressed by patriarchal ideals, leading to their voices being marginalized in society. The research elaborates on how the male characters representing hierarchical structures suppress the central female characters, to remain silent or prevent them from expressing themselves, as depicted in Samskara: A Rite for a Dead Man (1976), a translation of the Kannada novel Samskara (1965) authored by U.R. Anantha Murthy. The novel Samskara (1965) is translated into English as Samskara: A Rite for a Dead Man (1976) by A. K. Ramanujan. A patriarchal society is portrayed in Samskara: A Rite for a Dead Man (1976), where rituals and superstitious beliefs take precedence over compassion. Chandri, the only female character, has a major role yet speaks the least, sometimes being overpowered by the male characters. Hence, irrespective of their socioeconomic status, women are subjected to societal, economic, and physical exploitation. The purpose of this paper is to analyse, from a Bakhtinian standpoint, the representation of women's voices in monologism discourse. This research critically examines the portrayal of female characters in Samskara: A Rite for a Dead Man (1976), highlighting how they are reduced to submissive figures under the control of dominant males. While the female characters have limited dialogue, overshadowed by the presence of male characters, they still manage to make a significant impression on the readers. In his narration, the author presents the ramifications of societal regulations in an authentic circumstance from a singular perspective (monologic) as opposed to employing multiple voices (dialogic). The paper clarifies the current state of women's voices with the novel, which is set in traditional India where gender norms were dominant and female dissent was banned. A prevalent theme in contemporary society, intersectionality in gender is portrayed in the novel. Thus, the article sheds light on the contemporary gender empowerment movement and the significance of empowering women's voices in all aspects of life.