Goddesses from Hindu mythology in fiction by Pakistani women writers

Abstract

This research discusses the archetypes of Hindu goddesses used as symbols and metaphors in fiction by Pakistani women writers. Their integration of Hindu mythology in contemporary narratives gives the texts a profound depth. The significance of this study lies in the fact that even after the partition of Indian Subcontinent and disconnecting from living in a multi-religious and multi-cultural society, the previously shared culture; i.e., the factors that shape the shared consciousness of the women of this region, including mythological narratives and social norms evolved through centuries, is still embraced and used in an inspirational manner. Different religious identity as Muslims does not pose as a barrier in using mythological narratives of the other religion i.e., Hinduism, as these are part of a shared culture and collective memory. It is also concluded that women writers do not deconstruct or appropriate the patriarchal narrations and notions, and retain the interpretations stemming from patriarchal hegemony over pen.