Gender Spaces and Roles Reflected in "The Folded Earth"

An attempt has been made in this research article to throw light on the portrayal of gender spaces and roles in Anuradha Roy's novel The Folded Earth. Set against the backdrop of a small town in the Himalayan foothills, the novel delves into the lives of its central characters, capturing the intersections of tradition, modernity, and gender expectations. Through an ecofeminist lens, this research article examines how female characters handle skilfully social norms, restricted gender spaces, and their roles within a patriarchal society. The protagonist’s (Maya) journey toward self-discovery and empowerment highlights the tension between personal aspirations and societal constraints. The natural environment serves as a metaphor for both freedom and confinement, reflecting the duality of gendered experiences. This article emphasizes the novel's contribution to the ongoing discourse on gender dynamics, particularly within rural and semi-urban Indian settings, offering insights into the lived realities of women in evolving cultural landscapes.