Suffering and Strength: Representation of Women in River Sutra By Gita Mehta

Pushpa Rawat

Feminism, Patriarchy, Female Suffering, Resilience, Identity

This paper examines the representation of women in River Sutra by Gita Mehta, focusing on the interconnected themes of suffering and strength. Set against the symbolic backdrop of the Narmada River, the novel presents a series of episodic narratives that reveal the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions of women's lives within a patriarchal framework. The study analyzes how female characters such as the musician's daughter, the ascetic woman, and the courtesan embody diverse experiences of marginalization, isolation, and inner conflict. The paper argues that while these women are subjected to various forms of suffering--emotional neglect, social restriction, and identity crisis--they also demonstrate resilience through endurance, adaptation, and subtle forms of resistance. Unlike overtly rebellious feminist narratives, the novel portrays strength as an internal and often silent process. Drawing upon feminist literary theory, the study highlights how Mehta redefines female agency by presenting women not merely as passive victims but as complex individuals negotiating their identities within restrictive social structures. Furthermore, the river serves as a central metaphor for continuity and resilience, mirroring the enduring spirit of the female characters. The paper concludes that River Sutra offers a nuanced feminist perspective by foregrounding women's inner lives and emphasizing the coexistence of suffering and strength. Through its layered narrative and symbolic depth, the novel contributes significantly to the discourse on gender, identity, and resilience in Indian English literature.

Volume 13 Issue 12, December-2025

Pages : j421-j425