Surmounting All Odds - Asseveration of Rights by Women in Bama's Sangati

Women have always proved their capabilities in all areas of life, they have the unique ability to multitask and manage several roles simultaneously but sadly their position in India is far from satisfactory. The worst condition is that of the women belonging to the Dalit community as they are subjected to violence and harassment every day in their lives. They are relegated to a life of hardship and misery and have no respite from the unfair treatment meted out to them by their male counterparts. How these women face their everyday challenges and how they deal with them is brought out realistically by Bama, who has carved a niche for herself in the realm of Dalit literature. This paper is an earnest attempt to bring to light the trials and tribulations of the Dalit Women and the courageous attitude displayed by them in times of adversity. Bama has infused life into these characters who leave an indelible mark on the minds of readers. The Dalit women writers have tried their best to bring these issues to the fore through their commendable works. Its time this disparity comes to an end and the society starts acknowledging and respecting the sacrifices and valuable contributions women make to the society at large. It is high time the society accepts the fact that women contribute greatly to the progress and development of a nation and empowering them is the need of the hour. The novel chosen for study is a wake-up call, an emotional appeal made to the readers to take notice of the gender inequality, disparity and ubiquitous treatment inflicted upon women.