ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Manhood on Trial: Kali’s Emotional Trauma under Patriarchal Surveillance in One Part Woman

This paper explores the emotional agony endured by Kali, an infertile man in the context of patriarchal rural Indian society. Utilizing R.W. Connell’s idea of hegemonic masculinity as a theoretical lens, the present work analyzes how the prevailing cultural standards of manhood—primarily those relating to virility, patrimony, and fertility—are used to construct and define the masculine identity. Kali’s inability to have a baby marks him as socially defective and hence exposes him to constant criticism and ridicule. Placed within the broader social and religious context of rural Tamil Nadu, the novel shows that social conventions and rituals act as surveillance mechanisms under patriarchy. Kali’s identity as a man is not an intrinsic characteristic but a socially constructed one that is constantly monitored by his family members, peers, and customs. The struggle to meet the societal expectation results in a feeling of alienation, as he finds himself emasculated due to the inability to conform to hegemonic standards. This leads to further distress in his marriage as he starts developing an emotional distance due to his perceived inadequacy as a husband. The proposed paper suggests that the agony of Kali violates the traditional patriarchy discourse which glorifies the idea of masculine superiority without considering its weaknesses. The text-based approach will help to identify the nature of a phenomenon known as 'silent masculinity' where an individual does not express their emotional experiences because of social pressures. In addition, the influence of religious justification on the development of oppressive behaviour patterns will be considered in regard to the festival held at the temple as an alternative to infertility.