Understanding The Theme Of Subjugation Through Mahasweta Devi’s Bayen: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Mahasweta Devi is a prominent voice for the right to equality of the downtrodden and oppressed sections of the society by expressing the pitiful condition through her pen. The play Bayen describes how a woman is marginalized in the society by the male-dominated social system. This article is an attempt to study the status of women in the patriarchal society by reviewing Mahasweta Devi's famous play Bayen. Bayens are said to be very dangerous and they should warn people about their approach. The play shows how the society values ​​her but does not let her go beyond its limits.

The crux of the story is that Chandidasi Gangadasi, the mother of a young boy named Bhagirath, is declared a "Bayen" or witch by the patriarchal theocratic society. She is now a pariah and has to live near the railway tracks and Bhagirath stays with his father Malindar and stepmother. The play is depicted with an eye-catching focus that a mother is separated from her son by social forces in a patriarchal society. One day, she overhears a thief's conversation about his destructive plans to block a train and harm people. To save the people, she goes in the direction of the train and gives up her life. After her death, the society recognizes her sacrifice and respects her.

Chandi's death is a test to tell how much cruelty and superstition there is in our society. The play criticizes how people treat women. It shows how the society values ​​her but does not let her go beyond her limits. This story visualizes the nature of a common Indian woman. In difficult situations, women never think about themselves, but are always ready to sacrifice themselves for others instead.