FROM NEGATIVE TO GENERATIVE PARADIGM: TRACING THE TRANSITORY EDIFICE OF WIDOWHOOD IN HINDI CINEMA

Contemplating over the deprived section of the society, the vision that confronts the mental horizon is the picture of an oppressed widow whose image disrupts the picture of glorious womanhood. This side of womankind is seen as lacking autonomy as well as the capacity to make decisions for her. Dwelling into the celluloid portrayals, widowhood marks a transition and is seen as heading towards ‘new’ ideological or visual horizons. The focus is now on “individual women and their personal choices to reinforce those fundamental societal changes” (Genz and Brabon 14).

The study hinges upon these neo-liberal values of post-feminist portrayal of female choice and individuality in Hindi Cinema as providing a pathway to understand the emotional complexities of young widows and as a hope for moving the conscience of the new generation of the Indian society. Exploring the celebratory and optimistic portrayal of widows in Hindi movies, the research emphasizes on the shift in the female power that denies victimization and vulnerability suggesting that women have the power for self-definition; they simply need to explore it. Thus, the paper analyses the protagonists in search for wholeness, dignity, and a positive social image. Such a representation can be seen as a strong critique of existing practices before the concept of widowhood is obliterated- almost a declaration that indicts the society oppressing its widows.