ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Social Realism and the Empowerment of Women in Sudha Murty’s Mahashweta

Sudha Murty’s Mahashweta (2000) is a powerful novel that explores gender inequality, social prejudice, and the inner strength of women in Indian society. Through the story of Anupama, who is rejected by her husband and society after developing leukoderma, Murty portrays the painful reality of discrimination and the triumph of human dignity. The novel combines social realism with moral vision, encouraging self-respect and independence among women. This paper analyses Mahashweta through the lens of social realism and women’s empowerment, highlighting how Murty uses simple storytelling to expose deep social truths and affirm human values. Keywords: Social realism, Women Empowerment, Dignity, Patriarchy, Transformation