Deconstructing Androcentrism in ‘Dakhal:’ A Feminist Intersectional Study of the Woman Protagonist ‘Andi’

Abstract

This paper examines the character of Andi in Gautam Ghose’s film Dakhal through the lens of intersectional feminism, deconstructing the multiple layers of oppression she faces due to her gender, class, and tribal identity. Utilising Kimberlé Crenshaw’s framework of intersectionality, the study highlights how these intersecting forms of discrimination compound Andi’s marginalisation within an androcentric society. Andi’s experiences are discussed against the backdrop of feminist theories from scholars such as Simone de Beauvoir, Judith Butler, bell hooks, and Patricia Hill Collins, providing a comprehensive understanding of how gender, socioeconomic status, and tribal affiliations intersect to deepen oppression. The analysis reveals that androcentrism not only perpetuates gender inequality but also intersects with socioeconomic and cultural factors to intensify the oppression of marginalised women. The film’s depiction of Andi’s resilience and resistance against patriarchal norms underscores the significance of intersectional approaches in understanding and addressing social inequalities. By filling the gap in the existing literature on rural and tribal contexts, this study contributes to the broader discourse on intersectional feminism. It emphasises the need for nuanced strategies to combat the multifaceted nature of oppression faced by women in rural India. The findings suggest that policies and interventions must be intersectional in nature to address these complexities effectively.