EXPLORING MAHASWETA DEVI’S THE HUNT THROUGH THE LENS OF ECOFEMINISM

The term ‘Ecofeminism’ has received critical recognition in the recent years throughout the globe. The term brings two critical thinkings—Ecocriticism and Feminism together. The concept of ‘Ecofeminism’ explores the connection between women and nature, and at the same time, it addresses the oppression of nature and women. Mahasweta Devi is a prominent literary figure in Indian Literature. She is a Bengali writer as well as a social activist. She has contributed a number of novels, short stories, and essays in the literary field. In her works, one can see her concern for the women, outcasts, and tribal people. She is concerned about those people who are exploited by the dominant groups. A number of issues prevalent in the society are well focused through her works. In her literary works, she has presented the ground realities of the oppressed people. Her deep concern for nature and the empowerment of women can be seen in her literary works. There is a close connection between nature and women. Both are easy prey to patriarchal society. In the name of development and civilization, both nature and women are exploited. Mahasweta Devi has not only experienced the struggling lives of the indigenous people, but at the same time tried to eradicate the exploitation these people were going through. In the present paper, the short story of Mahasweta Devi, The Hunt is discussed from the perspective of ecofeminism.