India's Bandit Queen.

Mala Sen

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Born into poverty in Northern India, Phoolan Devi has become one of the most famous bandits in India's history, a living legend revered by millions. In revenge for the murder of her lover - and her own rape - Phoolan is said to have been responsible for the murder of 22 highcaste Hindu men. Based on prison diaries, letters, family interviews, police records and eye witness accounts, this updated edition takes account of recent developments in Phoolan's story - as well as wider events in India's troubled democracy.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Early Life: The book delves into Phoolan Devi's impoverished upbringing in rural Uttar Pradesh, India, and the challenges she faced growing up in a society marked by caste discrimination and gender inequality.

  2. Child Marriage and Abuse: Phoolan Devi was forced into marriage at a young age and experienced abuse and exploitation at the hands of her husband and in-laws, highlighting the systemic injustices faced by women in rural India.

  3. Revenge and Resistance: Phoolan Devi's transformation from victim to avenger is a central theme of the book, as she sought revenge against those who had wronged her and challenged the oppressive social order through acts of resistance.

  4. Outlaw Life: The book chronicles Phoolan Devi's life as an outlaw, leading a gang of bandits in the Chambal ravines and gaining notoriety for her acts of violence against upper-caste oppressors.

  5. Capture and Imprisonment: Phoolan Devi's capture by the authorities and subsequent imprisonment are detailed in the book, shedding light on the complex legal and political dynamics surrounding her case.

  6. Political Career: After serving time in prison, Phoolan Devi reinvented herself as a politician, aligning herself with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly lower-caste Hindus.

  7. Controversy and Criticism: Phoolan Devi's life and legacy are marked by controversy and criticism, with some questioning her actions as a bandit and others accusing her of exploiting her identity for political gain.

  8. Symbol of Resistance: Despite the controversies surrounding her, Phoolan Devi remains a symbol of resistance and empowerment for many marginalized communities in India, particularly lower-caste Hindus and women.

  9. Impact on Indian Society: The book explores Phoolan Devi's impact on Indian society, both as a symbol of defiance against caste and gender oppression and as a catalyst for political change.

  10. Legacy: Phoolan Devi's story continues to resonate in contemporary India, serving as a reminder of the deep-seated inequalities and injustices that persist in society and inspiring future generations to fight for social justice and equality.

Language English
ISBN-10 0044408889
ISBN-13 9780044408888
No of pages 304
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Pandora
Published Date 09 Jan 1995

About Author

Author : Mala Sen

2 Books

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