Towards Articulation from Silence in Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Palace of Illusions

Abstract

Feminism has long been associated with the concept of "equality." It is undeniable that equality was a central focus of the early feminist movement. However, the relative weight of feminist demands has shifted with the years. Despite decades of feminism's fight for equality, women's signs of unrest, revolt, outright rebellion, and discontentment persist. While a drive for parity may have been instrumental in the earliest stages of the feminist movement, it has not led to lasting change. Women came to realise they needed to focus on who they were as unique individuals rather than demanding equality based on sexual orientation. Women need to break the decades-long quiet regarding their experiences by speaking out. As a first step, women should practise self-assertion. This article summarises the novel The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee and discusses its primary topics.