Social equality and political subjecthood: Stri Darpan’s advocacy for women’s rights in the early twentieth century

Abstract

This article aims to contribute to the nuanced understanding of gender dynamics in the United Provinces during the 20th century by placing the women's periodical Stri Darpan at the centre of analysis. It contextualises the articulation of an early feminist consciousness through the articles that appeared in the journal, most of which were contributed by women. By exploring the narratives, debates, and discourses within its pages around the social and political rights of women, this study endeavours to capture the essence of women's agency, advocacy and aspirations within a pivotal period of socio-cultural transformation.