Rudali: A Quintessential Figure of Subalternity, Hegemony, and Marginalisation

Abstract

Dalits are closely identified and recognized as subaltern. This term finds its origin from the Latin word sub
meaning next below and alterns meaning every other. Subalterns are a group of people or community who
are excluded because of their inferior rank in the Varna system and are under the hegemony of the dominant
class. In the Indian context, marginality stresses on the notion of boundary, edge, and limit. Subalterns or
dalits occupy the edge or boundary of the Indian societal arrangement. This has given rise to their literature
which is arresting the attention of its readers for its authentic descriptions of invisible lives. Mahasweta Devi
has worked effortlessly and dedicated her entire life for the upliftment and betterment of this class of tribals
and dalits, who are tortured, disrespected, and exploited. Her short fiction Rudali portrays the constant
struggle of exploitation and survival of Sanichari. This paper explores her journey as a winner, a quintessential
figure of subalternity, hegemony and marginalisation.