WOMEN'S IDENTITY AND SOCIAL REALITY IN MRIDULA GARG'S FICTION

Abstract [English]

Hindi fiction has been a mirror of society and life since its inception. Both its subject matter and craft have changed over time. In the modern era, when reality and social problems became the focus of literature, fiction expressed the complexities and contradictions of life with a new attitude. In this context, the contribution of Mridula Garg, a renowned writer of contemporary Hindi literature, is particularly noteworthy. In her novels and stories, she deeply explored the issues of women's identity, freedom, and existence. In Mridula Garg's fiction, women are not merely objects of sympathy or figures limited to traditional roles, but rather, they are independent and struggling individuals. Novels like Chittakobra, Uske Hisse Ki Dhoop, and Anitya are powerful testaments to a woman's inner conflict, her desire for independence, and her courage to confront social conventions. Her stories also clearly reflect the complexities of urban life, the contradictions of middle-class families, and the impact of consumerist culture. Her literature is not limited to women's issues, but also provides an authentic portrayal of broader social reality. She has depicted family structure, the institution of marriage, the inequality in male-female relationships, and changing social norms in such a way that the reader is not only confronted with the reality of life but is also inspired to reflect on it. Her language is simple, lucid, and conversational, effectively revealing the psychological depth of the characters.

The conclusion of this study is that Mridula Garg's fiction offers a new vision and sensibility to Hindi literature. Her work simultaneously embraces the voice of women's freedom, the urge for social justice, and a realistic portrayal of the ironies of modern life. This is why her literature is as relevant today as it was in her time and will continue to influence the direction of Hindi fiction in the future.