Negotiating colonial arena: Toru Dutt’s exploration of identity and resistance

Abstract

In the genre of 19th-century Indian English literature, Toru Dutt presents a complex weave of subversive, cultural, and identity concerns. This abstract explores how these components interact, focussing on how Dutt questions social conventions and negotiates the intricacies of her bicultural identity. Deep examination of Dutt's cultural background and her experiences as a woman in a patriarchal culture are characteristics of her poetry. The conflict between her exposure to Western society and her Indian heritage is reflected in her art. She challenges the colonial narrative that frequently exoticized and marginalised Indian culture and presents a counter narrative that honours her ancestry. Dutt's poetry also challenges conventional gender norms and expectations. She defies the prevalent patriarchal conventions by presenting women as multifaceted, perceptive, and competent people. Her artistic output bears witness to her refusal to conform to social norms and her pursuit of independence. This abstract explores Dutt's relationship with culture, identity, and transgression in order to show off her important contribution to Indian English writing as well as her ongoing influence as a pioneer for women authors.