Title: The (de)humanised female representation: body politics in Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)

Authors: Apoorva Juneja; Surbhi Saraswat; Madhumita Chakraborty

Addresses: Amity Institute of English Studies and Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India ' Amity Institute of English Studies and Research, Amity University, Sector 125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India ' Department of English, Zakir Husain Delhi College (Evening), University of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, SKD Basti, Press Enclave, Ajmeri Gate, New Delhi, Delhi, India

Abstract: The arena of the human body is bound by interpretations beyond its control. Consequently, it can be dehumanised, humanised and rehumanised through the lens of those who carry the power of definition. These definers are noted to follow a phallocentric perception while passing judgement on the rights of its citizens. These pre-defined rights are validated for these citizens through soft powers like cinematic adaptations, operating out of the male gaze. Keeping the need for a gynocentric audience in mind, this paper deals with understanding the fallacies in recognising female emotion and its political impacts, borne out of objectification through its representation in Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), based on the book 'The Mafia Queens of Mumbai' penned by Hussain Zaidi. Further, relying on the plot, the paper will suggest ways to rehumanise women through cinematic soft power focusing on the rights of the prostitute dictated by the concept of free will.

Keywords: body politics; cinematic adaptation; dehumanised; Gangubai Kathiawadi; human rights; male gaze; rehumanised; soft power.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHRCS.2025.145269

International Journal of Human Rights and Constitutional Studies, 2025 Vol.12 No.2, pp.156 - 167

Received: 28 Aug 2023
Accepted: 05 Sep 2023
Published online: 31 Mar 2025 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article