Between Companionship and Alienation in Literature and Cinema: Reimagining Personal Law through Mahasweta Devi’s Story “The Divorce (Talaq)” and B.R. Chopra’s “Nikaah”

Abstract

It is evident that literature documents the incidents of the society, shaped in the form of variety of genres.   The evolution of mankind is found in a well weaved genres in the pages of literature. Indeed, through these genres mankind witnesses the society once it was. It is evident that literature educates the society with rational and irrational practices and eventually, it brings in the transformation of the society.  Mahasweta Devi’s story “The Divorce (Talaq)” and Achala Naga’s play “Nikaah” was written according to the then societal practices of a community “the Triple Talaq” which is now the concern of the present Indian law. The Indian Constitution epitomizes the mutual vision of the people of India. It has set laws considering sectarian concerns. More specifically, the Fundamental rights of Indian citizens are much sought after topic of discussion on distinguished platforms.  Nevertheless, under protection of Rights on Marriage, a Bill was passed in 2019 in protection of Muslim Women (citizens) Rights on Marriage. The Muslim Women Bill in other words ‘Triple Talaq’ confirms that it’s a criminal offence.  Does this Bill in reality accepted by all?  or Does victim choose to a medial solution to Talaq?   The present research throws light on these questions and also the need of the Women Bill and the consequences faced by the Muslim women before and after the Bill referring to Mahasweta Devi’s story “The Divorce (Talaq)” and B.R. Chopra’s Hindi cinema “Nikaah” which is based on Achala Nagar’s play.