Published Paper Details:

This paper investigates the nuanced portrayal of gender and class intersections in selected novels by Chetan Bhagat, a prominent figure in contemporary Indian English literature. It aims to move beyond surface-level observations to uncover how socio-economic realities profoundly shape and often constrain individual gendered experiences within his narratives. Through a critical analysis of novels such as Five Point Someone, 2 States, The 3 Mistakes of My Life, Revolution 2020, Half Girlfriend, and One Indian Girl, this study examines character development, thematic emphasis, and narrative choices. While Bhagat's works often celebrate youth aspirations and challenge traditional norms, they also reveal inherent tensions in depicting female agency within patriarchal class structures. The analysis argues that characters' class backgrounds frequently dictate the forms of gendered struggles they encounter and the extent of their liberation or subjugation. This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of Bhagat's socio-cultural commentary, highlighting the complex interplay of gender and class in shaping modern Indian identity and societal dynamics, particularly for the urban middle and lower-middle classes.