Odyssey of Sita: A Feminist Revision of Mythology with Special Reference to Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Forest of Enchantments

Abstract

Hindu mythology's rich cultural heritage stands out in the global tapestry of mythology. These ancient texts provide a wealth of knowledge and a deep insight into the beliefs, values, and traditions that have shaped Hindu civilization over millennia. In contemporary India, there is a rapid resurgence in rewriting Indian mythology adding a fresh perspective. Writing from a female’s perspective stands out among such retellings bringing the agonies and pain of often ignored mythical women from the periphery to the forefront. The present paper aims to explore the saga of Sita with a special focus on Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Forest of Enchantments, a retelling of Ramayana. This acquaints us with the sufferings of women along with Sita, who is worshipped for her devotion and unyielding trust towards her husband.