The Oxford dictionary defines "Patriarchy" as a system of society where male hold the most or all of the power. Similarly according to Johnsen's article he defines the term as the more powerful women are the more independent they become.
Now in the movie, showing a "lesbian" relationship, firstly couldnt be digested by the indian audiences because during that time (1996, mid 90's) the indians could even imagine the concept of two girls having a bond in such a way.
But this movie certainly wasnt made to hurt the hindu sentiments; instead deepa mehta made an effort in educating the indian community with sex issues around the world. Both the characters, Radha and Sita, are women to whom any middle class indian housewife would recognize herself, which is why the indian men were provoked. Every character in the movie is living in his or her own made up life and are finding satisfaction in it. But it is Sita who "wants to see the ocean", who wants to explore the world and find happiness. As in the start of the movie Radha's mom tell her, "what you can't see you can see, you just have to see without looking". These beautiful words make the back bone of the entire movie. Sita makes Radha comfortable in her company and gradually the kitchen place became their place where they would be happy.
I would just like to conclude that even though america and many other developed nations have accepted the fact of nature, we as a community and the next generation should make the other nations understand the way of life without hurting their mythological and cultural sentiments.
As now even in India people are understanding and are ready to talk and discuss about sex in an optimistic manner.
http://www.brightlightsfilm.com/30/fire.html
I agree with Chandan Agrawal in that the movie helps understand the problem or issue with two girls being in love really isn't or shouldn't be a problem. I am also aware of the riots this movie caused in India from hearing about it from my father. I also realize that in the past many Indian or countries other than America couldn't understand this "lesbian or gay" concept but I am glad people all around the world are understanding this and not being so inconsiderate about it.
ReplyDeleteIn the movie Radha and Sita fell in love and what I found interesting was how the husband of Radha wasn't accepting that he was betrayed by his wife. It had to do something with his "manhood". This was also the reason he kicked his servant out and his servant said "your just kicking me out because you are ashamed about your own family". What I found surprising or shocking was how he could let his wife just burn without helping her a little bit to put the fire out. This was one thing I found was extremely disrespectful to Radha.
Chandan: Excellent commentary on the film, in particular your reading of the scenes between Radha and her parents when she was a child. I would be interested in hearing more of your perspective on the controversy the film caused in India.
ReplyDeleteAzfar: Yes, the scene where Radha is left to burn is quite troubling! Though, I think Mehta wants us to view this scene on more of a metaphorical as opposed to a literal level.
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