Intersections and Interactions in Prajwal Parajuly’s The Cleft: A Study

This study undertakes a nuanced exploration of intersectional oppression, focusing on internalized dimensions and privilege-subordination interplay. Through Prajwal Parajuly's The Cleft from The Gurkha's Daughter, it examines intricate power dynamics within interpersonal interactions. Three protagonists, Parvati, Sarita, and Kaali, navigating complex socio-cultural landscapes in Nepal, are examined. Utilizing Pierre Bourdieu's theoretical framework, the paper is divided into two sections. The first section investigates symbolic violence, habitus, and doxa shaping protagonists' social positions. The second section delves into intersectional complexities within Nepal's diverse gendered structures, illuminating marginalization's multifaceted nature. This study employs an integrative intersectional approach, revealing intersections between individual agency, social structures, and dominance. Findings underscore how intersecting oppressions perpetuate systemic inequalities, informing strategies for social transformation.

Keywords: Intersectional oppression, symbolic violence, privilege, subordination