THE RESILIENCE AND AGENCY OF TRIBAL WOMEN IN GOPINATH MOHANTY'S PARAJA

Gopinath Mohanty’s Paraja (1945, translated by Bikram K. Das, 1987) is a seminal work in Indian literature that vividly portrays the life of the Paraja tribe in Odisha, focusing on their exploitation by non-tribal forces such as moneylenders, forest guards, and officials. This research paper examines the resilience and agency of tribal women, particularly Sukru Jani’s daughters Jili and Bili, who navigate intersectional oppressions of patriarchy, economic exploitation, and cultural erosion. Through textual analysis, the paper argues that Mohanty depicts these women not merely as victims but as embodiments of endurance and subtle resistance, contributing to family survival and cultural preservation. Key themes include their roles in labor, emotional fortitude amid abuse, and acts of defiance against systemic injustice. The study draws on postcolonial and feminist frameworks to highlight how these portrayals challenge stereotypes of tribal passivity, offering insights into broader issues of indigenous gender dynamics. Ultimately, the paper posits that the resilience of tribal women in Paraja serves as a critique of colonial legacies and a call for recognizing their agency in tribal development.