கவஞர சகதஜத படபபகளல கலசசரம மறறம பணணயம / Culture and Feminism in the Works of the Poet Sakthi Jothi

In the twentieth century, many types of literature flourished in Tamil. Many poets emerged in the field of literature and wrote numerous poems. Literature originally began with poetry and is considered the mother of all literature. Poetry is a unique art form that arises when imagination and emotion are expressed in a particular form. During this period, poetry flourished, starting with Bharathi and dominating the modern Tamil literary scenario. Then, modern poetry gradually shifted into the hands of women poets. Today, more than a hundred female poets are recognized in the realm of Tamil modern poetry. Most of these female poets are emancipated individuals and a few raise their voices to address and restore justice for the oppressed women in Tamil society. In particular, women poets strongly voiced their struggles to reclaim the liberties long held under male dominance. Bharathiyar sang about Tamil culture and women's rights by emphasizing the unity of Tamils even if they lived in Africa or on distant islands. Bharathidasan advocated for women's liberation and education. In the 1980s, Kulothungan envisioned women as fellow human beings rather than for their physical attributes. Abdul Rahman was known for using metaphors and symbolism in his poetry by emphasizing the idea that, despite the Lord being addressed by different names. Pa. Vijay’s poems reflect society like a mirror. He emphasizes a lifestyle built on self-confidence and portrays the strength of feminism through the character of Kannagi. Sukirtharani expresses the struggles of marginalized communities and highlights the concept of womanhood in her poetry. Among these Tamil poets, Sakthi Jothi stands out for her love of nature and humanity. She excelled at transforming the events and people she encountered in life into poetry. This article aims to reveal the cultural impressions that emerge in human life. Feminism is considered the empowerment of women and the awareness needed to address the problems faced by them. Shakti Jyothi has introduced the concept of environmental feminism, linking nature and women with the Panchabhutas—land, water, air, sky, and fire. She illustrates themes such as offering water to the thirsty, a woman rebuilding her life through self-improvement after losing her husband and child by trading betel leaves, and a woman left alone in her home realizing the gifts and sacrifices of her parents. Shakti Jyothi sheds light on the role of women in the household and explores the concept of motherhood as a feminine virtue. Hence, this essay seeks to highlight the cultural reflections and feminist ideals in her works.