Silent Voices: Interpretations of Gender-based Violence in Poile Sengupta's Mangalam

Patriarchy is a system of social organization in which men hold primary power despite their inherent sympathy towards women. In this structure, both men and women are bound within complex relations shaped by power dynamics. This process of dehumanizing women perpetuates a culture of entitlement, where men feel justified in treating women as possessions rather than equals. It fosters an environment that normalizes violence, contributes to the perpetuation of gender-based discrimination, and strengthens patriarchy. Violence against women within families creates a web of injustice and exploitation. Thus, the family has become a site of exploitation, oppression and tragedies. The present play under study portrays diverse female characters and the emotional and physical toll they experience, the playwright humanizes the victims of violence, exhibits their stoicism and elicits empathy from the audience.