Apr-Jun (2023)

Gender Perspectives in Indian Historical Research

T. Santhi

Assistant Professor, PG & Research Department of History, Vellalar College for Women (Autonomous), , Erode-638012

The study examines the evolution of gender perspectives in Indian historiography, highlighting the historical exclusion of women from mainstream narratives dominated by colonial, nationalist, and elite male viewpoints. It traces the transformative influence of feminist scholarship from the 1970s onward, especially the contributions of historians like Uma Chakravarti, Geraldine Forbes, and Tanika Sarkar, who re-centered women as historical agents. The study emphasizes the shift from a singular patriarchal lens to intersectional approaches that incorporate caste, class, and regional diversity, thereby enriching the understanding of women’s lived experiences. It also foregrounds the importance of oral histories and personal narratives in recovering subaltern voices, particularly Dalit and tribal women. By challenging the traditional boundaries of historical inquiry, the article advocates for integrated methodologies that recognize gender as central to all historical processes. This comprehensive analysis expands the scope of historiography in India and reinforces the significance of inclusive and intersectional feminist frameworks.

Keywords: Gender historiography, feminist scholarship, intersectionality, Indian history, women's agency, caste and class, oral narratives
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Published: 30 JUN 2023

Issue: Apr-Jun (2023)

Section: Articles

Metrics: 63 59

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