A comparative analysis of changing landscapes of female narratives of Pre and Post liberalization: Indian Cinema

Abstract

The study analyzes the representation of the feminine ideal in Indian cinema before and after the liberalization period. Historical, social, and cultural analyses have considered the political and economic transformations of India during the eras depicted in these films. The study employs descriptive and explanatory research design. The study seeks a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon of female writing against the backdrop of India's historical, cultural, social, and political transformations. The changes noted in this area correspond with the overarching effort for gender equality and the shifting position of women in India. Films in the post-liberal context portray women as autonomous individuals capable of shaping their own destinies, surpassing the martyr archetype. The study emphasizes the surrender of autonomy, the quest for rights, and the demand for accountability to confront societal norms, contrasting with the traditional portrayal of women in the pre-liberal era.