Patriarchy and Gender Discrimination in Dina Mehta’s Brides Are Not for Burning

JOURNAL ARTICLE

Author: Prof. Dr. Sarala Kisan Sanap

Keywords: Gender discrimination, patriarchy, dowry, feminist theory, silence, domestic space, symbolism.

Abstract: Dina Mehta’s play Brides Are Not for Burning presents a critical exploration of the pervasive structures of patriarchy and the systemic gender discrimination embedded within Indian society. This study examines how Mehta’s narrative foregrounds the struggles of women subjected to societal expectations, oppressive customs, and domestic subjugation. Through a close reading of the play, the research highlights the ways in which patriarchal norms manifest in both public and private spheres, perpetuating gender inequality and restricting women’s autonomy. The analysis also underscores the playwright’s use of dialogue, characterization, and dramatic conflict to expose the socio-cultural mechanisms that enforce female marginalization. By situating the play within the broader discourse on gender studies and feminist theory, this paper emphasizes the enduring relevance of Mehta’s work in critiquing societal inequities and advocating for women’s empowerment. The study ultimately demonstrates that Brides Are Not for Burning not only mirrors the gendered realities of its time but also challenges audiences to confront and question entrenched patriarchal practices..

Article Info: Received: 30 Aug 2025; Received in revised form: 28 Sep 2025; Accepted: 02 Oct 2025; Available online: 05 Oct 2025

DOI: 10.22161/ijeel.4.5.8

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