A Feminist Reading of “The Weave of My Life” by Urmila Pawar

Abstract

Urmila Pawar’s autobiographical work A Weave of My Life provides a compelling narrative that intertwines caste and gender oppression within the framework of Indian society. It presents a powerful intersection of caste and gender, offering a distinctive feminist perspective rooted in Dalit experience. This study examines how Pawar articulates a form of Dalit Feminism that challenges both patriarchal oppression and caste-based marginalization. Through her personal narrative, Pawar foregrounds the everyday struggles of Dalit women, whose identities are shaped not only by gender but also by systemic social hierarchies.
Her use of weaving as a metaphor symbolizes both survival and creativity, reflecting the resilience of marginalized women. By situating A Weave of My Life within the broader framework of Dalit literature and feminist theory, this research underscores the importance of inclusive narratives in understanding women’s experiences in India. The study ultimately argues that Pawar’s work expands feminist discourse by integrating caste consciousness, thereby redefining the scope and direction of contemporary feminist thought.