Breaking Chains: Feminist Perspective in Sudha Murty’s Three Thousand Stitches

Abstract

This paper examines the feminist dimensions in Three Thousand Stitches by Sudha Murty. The work is a collection of autobiographical narratives that portray the struggles, suffering, and transformation of women in Indian society. Through these stories, Murty exposes issues such as patriarchy, caste discrimination, poverty, illiteracy, and social stigma that continue to affect women’s lives.
From a feminist perspective, the text highlights the ways in which women are restricted by rigid social customs and unequal power structures. Many female characters in the narratives experience marginalization, economic dependence, and denial of dignity. However, Murty also presents the possibility of change through education, self-reliance, and social support. The stories emphasize that empowerment is achieved not merely through protest, but through opportunities that help women rebuild their confidence and identity.
The book particularly focuses on the rehabilitation of Devadasi women, revealing the harmful impact of oppressive traditions on women’s bodies and freedom. At the same time, it celebrates women’s resilience, solidarity, and determination to create better lives for themselves. Murty’s humanitarian approach to feminism stresses compassion, practical action, and sustainable social reform.
Overall, Three Thousand Stitches reflects important feminist concerns such as gender inequality, women’s empowerment, and social justice. The work presents women not simply as victims of oppression, but as individuals capable of resistance, recovery, and transformation.