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The State Rajput Identity and Women's Agency in 19th and 20th Century Rajasthan

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 16:37 authored by Maya UnnithanMaya Unnithan
Drawing on historical and ethnographic material on lower-class Rajput women, this paper evaluates the their impact in transforming gender roles and relationships in rural Rajasthan. It focuses on the individual and collective agency of Rajput women and the role of the state in the promotion of gender-specific identities in Rajasthan, India. Overall, it is noted that the Rajputs have had a tremendous influence on the culture, customs and traditions of the people of the state. In terms of the impact of Rajput women, however, it is suggested that they would be in a stronger position to initiate decisions if the community structures that generate prestige and value were more in their favor. Nevertheless, a change in the prestige structure could result in gender conflict, hence, it is complicated with skepticism and reluctance by both sexes. Although the Women's Development Programme has raised an awareness of women's rights, it still remains constrained by state sponsorship. Moreover, while women's agencies are seen to be enhanced by state-level initiatives, middle- and upper-class Rajput women remain constrained by the nature of state and national politics.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Indian Journal of Gender Studies

ISSN

0971-5215

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Issue

1

Volume

7

Page range

49 - 70

ISBN

0971-5215

Department affiliated with

  • Anthropology Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2012-02-06

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