Casting Off Chains: Caste, Gender, And Empowerment In Baby Kamble's The Prisons We Broke

This research paper investigates into the complex interplay between caste, gender, and empowerment as portrayed in Baby Kamble's seminal work, The Prisons We Broke. In the context of India's deeply entrenched caste system, Kamble's narrative illuminates the multifaceted challenges faced by Dalit women, who contend with not only the burdens of caste-based discrimination but also the complexities of gender-based oppression. Through a meticulous examination of Kamble's narrative, this paper seeks to unravel the ways in which her characters navigate these oppressive structures, finding pathways to empowerment and resistance. Baby Kamble's own experiences as a Dalit woman provide a crucial lens through which to interpret her work, shedding light on the personal motivations that underlie her exploration of these themes. Employing a rigorous literary analysis, this study dissects The Prisons We Broke to discern the underlying threads of caste and gender intersections. It unravels how Kamble's characters are molded by societal norms, simultaneously navigating the pernicious manifestations of both caste and gender biases. The paper also delves into Kamble's nuanced use of symbolism and narrative techniques, illuminating her skilful portrayal of these intricate layers of oppression by considering the following critical riders: • How does the central focus on discrimination shift to the notions of empowerment and resistance within the narrative? • How do Kamble's characters become agents of change, challenging societal norms and advocating for collective liberation? • How does Kamble's work transcend its literary boundaries, inspiring marginalized communities and instigating dialogues for social transformation?