DEPICTION OF MIDDLECLASS INDIAN WOMAN - AN IDEALISTIC APPROACH BY SUDHA MURTHY

Abstract

This study explores the literary portrayal of middle-class Indian women in the works of Sudha Murthy, focusing on the theme of idealism as a central narrative and ethical framework. Unlike radical feminist texts that often highlight rebellion and defiance, Murthy’s female characters embody strength through moral integrity, compassion, and resilience. The research analyzes selected stories to examine how these women navigate societal expectations, gender roles, and cultural responsibilities while upholding personal values and pursuing meaningful change. Using a qualitative, thematic analysis of Murthy’s English-language prose, the study reveals that her protagonists do not reject tradition but reinterpret it, crafting a quiet yet powerful form of empowerment. They reflect the complex realities of India’s middle class, where aspirations for education and independence co-exist with duties to family and community. Murthy’s accessible storytelling, rooted in ethical clarity and cultural nuance, offers an alternative feminist vision that highlights the importance of inner strength and everyday heroism. By contextualizing Murthy’s narratives within Indian socio-cultural norms, the study contributes to a broader understanding of gender, morality, and literary representation. It affirms that idealism, far from being outdated, serves as a vital tool for resistance, transformation, and identity formation in contemporary Indian literature.