Reading the Gendered Narratives of the Pandemic Through Namita Gokhale’s “The Blind Matriarch”

This paper explores the intricate dynamics of power, gender, introspection, and identity within Namita Gokhale’s novel The Blind Matriarch. Through a detailed examination of the protagonist, Matangi-Ma, and other key characters, this study delves into how the pandemic exacerbates existing familial and societal tensions, leading to a profound exploration of themes such as isolation, alienation, belongingness, and identity crisis. The novel is set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, which serves as a catalyst for the characters’ introspective journeys and the re-examination of their roles within the family and society. Matangi-Ma emerges as a central figure, embodying the strength and resilience required to navigate the complexities of these issues, while also highlighting the gendered power dynamics that shape the lives of the characters. Through a blend of narrative analysis and theoretical perspectives on gender and identity, this paper argues that The Blind Matriarch offers a compelling commentary on the intersections of personal and political power, the concept of home as a refuge and battleground, and the ongoing struggle for identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world.