Centred around the bold voices of millennials and Gen Zs, Smashing the Patriarchy explores how young Indian women from diverse backgrounds ingeniously overcome the patriarchy in their everyday lives.
From beauty, body politics, and sexuality, to caste, power, and the paradox of choice, the book explores a wide range of women’s issues and draws important connections between these.
In the chapter ‘On Beauty’ the author examines why women pursue or reject mainstream beauty standards and the real-life repercussions of their choices.
‘Ishq in the Times of Tinder’ considers the conundrum that is love and what women want (and don’t want) from partnerships.
The chapter ‘Women at Work’ focuses on how young hyper-informed (and tech-savvy) women have shifted work culture across industries.
‘Demystifying the Feminine’ examines how women across the socio-cultural spectrum define and express femininity.
‘Society, Sanskar, and Choice’ dives into society’s conception of honour and the backlash dissenting women face when they go against the norm.
Taking its inspiration from multi-disciplinary theories, grounded and deepened by interviews with a variety of experts and numerous women, Smashing the Patriarchy is an astonishingly insightful exploration of the collective psyche of modern Indian women.
Sindhu Rajasekaran was born in Madras, India. Trained as an engineer, she became a writer and obtained a master's in creative writing from the University of Edinburgh. Her debut novel Kaleidoscopic Reflections was nominated for the Crossword Book Award in 2011. Her fiction has been published in the Asia Literary Review, Elsewhere Lit, Kitaab and Muse India, and appeared in anthologies. Sindhu is also a filmmaker and communications strategist. She produced an award-winning Indo-British feature film Ramanujan in 2014, has written scripts and helped various start-ups and corporates tell their stories better.
“Smashing the Patriarchy: A Guide for the 21st-Century Indian Woman” is a brilliant illustration of the subtle and explicit ways Indian women battle the patriarchy daily. Much of the book dissects modern feminism by looking at consent, activism (in all forms), queer-inclusive and male-exclusive, sex-positivity, and the deep-rooted casteism that exists even in the most “liberal” or “judgement-free” feminist circles. To say that Rajasekaran leaves no stone unturned in her analysis would be an understatement. Sprinkled with meaningful footnotes, Rajasekaran provides context for readers who require an introduction to feminism, yet does not overwhelm readers who are well-versed on the subject — making this book as deep or quick of a read.
This was my first time reading a feminist book from an Indian (rather than an Indian-American) perspective. I was especially enthralled by the inclusion of casteism (i.e. the Brahmanical patriarchy) and the validity of online activism. For example, Rajasekaran highlights the #unfairandlovely campaign - a campaign that challenged the widely-held belief that fair skin is the most attractive. Because online activism is an accessible way to engage in social justice, I was able to participate in the campaign.
My only gripe with the book is the way information is presented. Beyond sub-headers, the book lacked real chapters. Additionally, while every topic was incredibly important, and Rajasekaran did a wonderful job of breaking down each subject, the amount of information was not the easiest to get through. With that being said, I could not identify a part of the book that I would cut out since every concept was critical to a fully inclusive analysis.
I often read nonfiction to expand my views and knowledge. My tbr list is as long as miles now. With literary fiction, I give space for nonfiction too and this book gave me a hint to give me a better perception of feminism.
Author Sindhu Rajasekaran was nominated for the Crossword Book award for her novel Kaleidoscopic Reflections so I was hoping that it will be a well-researched work but it appeared to me beyond my expectations. It gives me a 360° wide expanded view of what is the true meaning of feminism and being feminist. The author Sindhu did a thoughtful, thorough examination of our society, puts today's feminists and feminism under the microscope, and delivered a very different kind of perspective to see everything and everyone clearly. She raised her voice from a completely different angle, she was standing outside the theoretical body of traditional feminism and dived into the details of today's post-feminism time.
In her strong bold words, she didn't hesitate to scrutinized women and their feminist behavior. She runs errands for the truth of feminism, she spotted the loopholes, she unraveled against the social and political turbulence, and depicted what is the truth of feminity, the true meaning of feminism, what should be or shouldn't be the true activity of true feminist.
This book is getting stronger and stronger whilst reaching its conclusion and has given very neutrality to all women who believe in feminism and who don't. Yes, lots of people ridiculed feminists for their thinking and the author really didn't stop to analyze this chapter also, she analyzed why this happened - They take what they like from the jargon of feminism. The author gives us a profound perspective in this book.
We are not as rational as we would like to believe we are. Feminism is not only making empowering women but letting women enjoy what they are, giving them the freedom to think and to choose, not lashing and whipping to someone who doesn't have the same perspectives but accepting the truth and not molding with the vanity of perfect feminist or femininity. The practical analysis and the urge to bring out this applaudable.
I really enjoyed the development, how in every chapter she says that this feminist activity often repressed personal desires and how they became oppressive like their counterpart which is not desirable.
I find a voice in this book that is very me.
Highly recommend this to today's women, read this to know precisely feminism and our post-feminism time.
Not to mention, female bitchiness is a real thing.” “At the end of the day, we all try to benefit from the patriarchy one way or another.”
The books is about society, sanskar,choice , Demystifying the feminine indian feminism has hardly considered of Gender equality .A women is always viewed through the prism of femininity .
The author of Smashing The Patriarchy has drawn false equivalence between what she jibes as “proper feminists” to self-appointed conservative protectors of tradition. The language often takes on the garb of a cool millennial lingo, such that the author seems to forget that purposely incorrect grammar becomes uncool after a point. Descriptive statements such as “gori (fair) women with skin like butter” and qualitative adjectives such as “chee chee” add zilch to the erroneously framed and fabricated arguments.
Since the beginning of Smashing The Patriarchy, there is a normalisation of the elite and privileged women, with upper class, upper-caste, cis het-ness being taken as the default identity of the women. And when the author implies that “Most women do x…” or “Most women are y…” and then goes on to speak on something exclusive to elite women, it only shows a wilful placing of the elite as the default in a country where most women belong to the marginalised communities.
Women empowerment is a critical aspect to achieving gender equality, where both men and women have equal power and opportunities for education, healthcare, economic participation and personal
I love this book very much. It's show mirror to those who is abusing women's, who think women's place in there foot .the creepy and dirty mind .I'm not targeting only men also women equally responsible .
Author is extremely explained beautifully. Language is lucid and understandable .
👉𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊:- 📚ⓉⒾⓉⓁⒺ:- Smashing The Patriarchy 🖋️ⒶⓊⓉⒽⓄⓇ:- Sindhu Rajasekharan 🗞️ⓅⓊⒷⓁⒾⓈⒽⒺⓇ:- Aleph Publication 🔤ⓁⒶⓃⒼⓊⒶⒼⒺ:- English 📖ⒻⓄⓇⓂⒶⓉ:- Hardcover 👉𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒:- This book has 5 chapters. . First one is "On Beauty". It's moving around the outer beauty like a matter of style, saga of self-love, breaking the stereotype, seeing through the illusion where you can explore more how to be presentable. . Second one is "Ishq in the times of tinder". It's about the new era of love & life. There are things discussed in the book based on modern love, what's consent got to do with it?, eroctic female body(& mind),Kinky is Queer. . Third one is "Women at work" which is about the life of a woman in the workplace "fempowerment", "reclaiming the narrative","rising against the odds","Will the real feminists please stand up?". . The next one is "Demystifying the feminine" & last one is "Society, Sanskar & choice". . To know more about it grab the book & give it a try. 👉𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒 :- 🙂 Cover of the book is nice designed smartly without much improvisation. 🙂 Writing style of the book is quite nice. Here author beautifully explained the real meaning of feminism & feminist in a precise way. 🙂 Language used in the book is quite simple familiar & nicely executed the whole motto of author's imagination behind the book. 🙂 Narration of the book gives you a pleasant of reading & it's not like other books on feminist. It has a new & unique flavour that going to attract every reader towards it. 🙂The pace of the book is moderate. It's not that fast but not slow as well. It's just author focused on detailed narration so the length of the book is little more. 🙂 The reference part which is in the last of the book gives an idea about author's ample research towards the book. 𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑:-🌟🌟🌟🌟
RATING : 5/5🌟 🌺🌺 "Feminity has many meanings in India. It always has and always will. It holds the secret of flight. Tells the story of creation. Gives the power to sustain. To love and raise. It is the rage that ends all evil. Our foremothers have whispered it in our ears and infused it in our blood. Their grit was a revelation. Your thoughts are your inheritance. Cherish the contradiction, because in it,you will find the feminine truth."
~ Demystifying the feminine (smashing the patriarchy page- 153) . . . . "Smashing the patriarchy",is just as its title depicts, bold and bravely written. We often confuse ourselves about few things like feminism and equality, actually feminism is all about equality and even though we live in 21st century,in my opinion feminism is still underated and it deserves much recognition.
I just loved how the author has explained everything beautifully and in a detailed manner. It was a total wrap up,yes thats what would say because the author has researched and presented everything in much great way.
They say women has achieved their independence and their rights so no need to banter more,but if you truly want to know the real development of feminism and women, please visit your nearby village. All I can say is,I am in love with this book and truly recommend you to give it a shot.
In the lucid and unbiased manner the author has shown everything and almost covered up the topic thoroughly.
Make sure you check this out guys,you would not want to miss it for sure. Happy reading ❤️ 🌺🌺
Book:- SMASHING THE PATRIARCHY: A GUIDE FOR THE 21ST-CENTURY INDIAN WOMAN Author:- Sindhu Rajasekaran Rating:- 5/5
Being a girl and true feminist, i always prefer reading such book which are bases on women empowerment. This book is also belongs to one of such genres.
Gender equality is what makes a nation. Today, women possess equal rights and opportunities in any and every fields. But, the other side of the coin is that few women still face abuses and harrasment.
The author of the book must be appreciated for portraying the real face of dirty and creepy minded people. And yes, one who pass comments on women are both man as well as woman.
Smashing the Patriarchy is a step to present young Indian women belonging to different backgrounds battling and overcoming the patriarchy in their day to day lives.
A woman not only has to face the comments on her body but also she's judged on the basis of her dress style and working ability. There are innumerable women issues that need attention & the author had tried to do the same.
The chapters in the book are all mind blowing. My favourite is 'Women at Work’. This chapter details how young women tend to shift work culture across industries.
Overall, this book is quite knowledgeable for society and it's belongings. Human beings must grab this book and know what's the actual circumstances a woman goes through in her daily live.
The language used in the book is easy and understandable. Highly recommended for book lovers.
Smashing The Patriarchy’ is a book that resonates with a generation of women, who are not only demanding answers and accountability but redefining the meaning of feminism based on their experiential reality. Sindhu Rajasekaran’s new book dives into the idea of postfeminism and how it creates a space for women to redefine their idea of empowerment in more individualistic terms instead of collective. While it’s important to question the systemic structures of patriarchy, it is also important to identify our own personal emotional trauma and heal from it. As Rajasekaran states in her book, ‘Patriarchy is bad for women’s brain’
The book deconstructs complex experiences into an accessible language and in doing so assures its readers that the onus of change lies with them. Individual efforts, like healing from moral injury caused by patriarchal structures, small moments of courage, creating a network of support for those around you and most importantly, Much like any political theory, the idea of feminism demands to be contextualised to our lived reality and the truth is, all women live a life defined by its own challenges and structures. There is no one way to be a good feminist.
I really enjoyed this book.
The storyline is well-paced. The language understandable. The author explained very interesting.
I'm dead confident by the title and a little about the book, you already have guessed what the content is going to be about. Yes, About Women! But do we certainly realize what does Feminism means? We often tend to infer who talks about feminism and the disparity in ideologies. This book is nothing like any other typical feminist book.
My admiration for the respective author grew a lot after completing the book. She was precisely strong with her beliefs and exploration throughout my read. The abundance of effort she had set in putting down all of them are exhibited.
What I liked the most about the book is that the author never attempted to exalt the outrageous behaviour that women execute in the name of feminism. She unravelled the several civic, political turbulence and peer anxieties or so on behind.
The book was beyond my expectations. I never thought that I would end up loving such books ever, the reason I've never read this category of the genre but it's apparent that I'll be waiting for such content more.
I would highly recommend it to all women and men too. Especially to the 21st-century women, as it encourages as an incredible mentor to the youths to have promising insights towards the nation.
Smashing the patriarchy by Sindhu Rajasekaran is a groundbreaking book that will bring much clarity about the social issues and to where we as a woman stand! First of all this book itself is very beautiful with its neon pink color with bold title that clearly predicts the smashing read about our patriarchal society. The author pointed out every single issue (if possible), from the raging inequality to the minute details of problems that we mostly ignore in life. It defines the Feminism in society's eyes just to redefine it to the very basic needs, just the way it should be. The language itself is very rich and definitely enriched my vocabulary. Not only the author's point of view but the book is a collection of views from women around the world. From the pleasure department to the bullying of seniors of the same gender- it covered all possible points where we as humans need to be conscious and careful. What I loved is that the author made sure to give sufficient extra knowledge at the end of the pages so the reader's get the best out of the content, no place for misunderstanding. Overall it's a very interesting and much needed read that I suggest to everyone, not only women but to men also!
▪️Smashing the Patriarchy talks about the everyday life struggles that modern women have to encounter and how they try to overcome patriarchy. This book explores majority of issues faced by women in day to day lives and provide a well researched take on the topic. The title of the book pretty much gives the idea of the content inside, it is speaking for itself.
▪️There are a lot of references to different books and authors in each chapter highlighting their perspective towards a certain argument and that clearly shows how well the author has researched for and put in to this book. The language used is lucid and this one is a good pick for both beginners as well as avid readers alike and that too on a vital topic.
▪️Author has followed very subtle, unbiased and neutral approach of putting forward her views and leaving it upto the readers to analyze and understand things and takeaway what they liked from the various arguments. Despite being a controversial topic because of less awareness and incomplete knowledge among some people, the author had penned down this book with wisdom. It is a thought provoking, insightful, eye opening and well researched take on the topic of feminism.
"Feminism is the belief that women should have the same rights and opportunities as men."
. . . Ever since I got a glimpse of this book,I knew I am gonna get it. Being someone who believes in equal rights and opportunities,topics regarding the same always fascinates me.
"Smashing the patriarchy" by Sindhu Rajasekaran is such a comeback for our patriarchal society and so bold at it, I am really impressed with all the research work by the author.
Women issues and discrimination conflicts they faces even in 21st century has been presented very bravely in the book. Whether its the beauty standard we have to match with or the the sanskari thing we always have to cope up with,which bounds us from living to the fullest. I support the idea of the choice rather than putting someone in jail of thoughts and decision.
The all compilation of true stories included in the book makes the whole book more appealing. I appreciate the bold and brave decision of the author to come up with this amazing book and in such a great detail.
All in all, I loved it and totally recommend you to check this out if the title intrigues you.
In her book, Smashing the Patriarchy, Sindhu Rajasekaran assesses the physical, sexual, emotional, societal and political inequality between men and women and demands sound structural and cultural changes for the future survival of all men and women. Using just five big categories, the author oscillates between women at work and women at home. Since time immemorial, patriarchy has been perpetuated into our minds. Hence, it is definitely a herculean task to question a deep-rooted belief. After #MeToo when women started realizing their worth and started gaining enough courage to speak for themselves, a cloud of silver lining appeared. But once this movement stalled, the voices became voices in the wilderness once again. Occasionally offering lip service to the actions and reactions of several women across the globe, Sindhu traces the lives of those who have already suffered and those who refused to suffer at the hands of menfolk.
Being a true feminist, i always prefer reading such books which are based on women empowerment. Today, women possess equal rights and opportunities in every field. But, the other side of the coin is that few women still face abuses and harrasment.The author Sindhu did a thoughtful, thorough examination of our society, puts today's feminists and feminism under the microscope, and delivered a very different kind of perspective to see everything and everyone clearly. She raised her voice from a completely different angle, she was standing outside the theoretical body of traditional feminism and dived into the details of today's post-feminism time. Smashing the Patriarchy is a step to present young Indian women belonging to different backgrounds battling and overcoming the patriarchy in their day to day lives. The chapters in the book are all mind blowing. My favourite is 'Women at Work’. This chapter details how young women tend to shift work culture across industries. Overall a wonderful read also the book is in simple language. Highly recommended for book lovers.
Sometimes, somewhere we find a book that makes us think a lot. Questions us on our existing notions and beliefs. Expands your views.
Smashing the Patriarchy delves deep into how Indian women of today overcome the shackles of patriarchy in their daily lives, in their own unique ways. She talks about what feminism stands for the women(mostly urban) today and discusses the controversial individualistic stance of post feminism.
Through five chapters, she takes into account a myriad of topics. She talks of beauty standards and the prejudices of Indian society against female form; female desires and owning their sexuality; concept of femininity across socio cultural spectrum and even the effects of colonialism on representation of femininity in visual media; the concept of society's honour and female responsibility.
Thoughts, thoughts and a lot of thoughts. Some conflicting, some absolute. That is what I'm left with. The author presents her views along with quotes from several women from different caste, class and strata presenting multifaceted pictures of feminism in modern times. I would not say that I subscribe to all her views (like her stance on dowry) but she sure does present a strong case for the reader and compels them to form their own thoughts. As complicated as the subject is, she opens up the discussion keeping the socio-political-cultural-religious backdrop into consideration.
I want to discuss the contents of the book, but I still find myself mulling over my own stances on the subject matter and how I see the ideas around feminism. There is no one simple definition to it, that is what the book made me realise primarily. We all exercise and define feminism in our own beautiful ways, whether we find our ways through patriarchy or smash it with a loud bang. This book gave me reasons to learn and unlearn, reflect and come to terms with exercising my choice freely (even if it might seem not so feminist).
I would highly suggest everyone read this piece of work. Be it a man or woman. It is a book that will give you a new lens or maybe clean your existing ones!
Smashing The Patriarchy talks about woman. . The book is totally based on all this topics. One can make idea by the title itself that Author gave to the book. Smashing the Patriarchy ,means ending this thought and idea of giving importance to men morr tha woman.
The book revolves around best guide for woman's feminism, safety , thoughts and many suggestions have been given. The book can be best pick for every girl. The author has given many suggestive ideas and explained everything very beautifully.
It's helpful for the woman as well as man who doesn't know what's feminism is and what are the things that need to be followed by man as well as woman. The things have been clearly mentioned in the books which are not taken serious by the society. So the book can be best pick for people.
I really loved the book. I really appreciate the author to write on such a beautiful and useful topic. The book is highly recommendable to everyone.
Smashing the patriarchy by Sindhu Rajasekaran is a book which scrutinizes how youthful Indian women from distinct environments withstand the patriarchy in their everyday vitalities..
The writer attempts to evaluate feminism from a various philosophy, which gives rise to the publication a masterwork..
The storyline broadcasts how the women's expanded wished in every cord which is totally remarkable and the decent means of conveying the feminism are talked about..
The language utilized is extremely transparent and the tittle and cover of the book exists incredibly eye catchy and wonderful..
This book is well-researched by the author as narration technique breathes great ..
The book is about community, society, preference, demystifying the feminine ,indian feminism has barely evaluated of gender equality..
The writer is particularly explained beautifully each and every objective of the book..
Book review This is a book that i am going to rank up there with other books that have changed my Thinking and perspectives.
I have always thought that patriarchy wasn't just about men oppressing and purveying violence against women for the sake of it, but rather because of the systematic anomaly that is held up by the establishment. But the author actually explains this concept with the most insight i have ever witnessed.
From beauty, body politics, and sexuality, to caste, power, and the paradox of choice, the book explores a wide range of women’s issues and draws important connections between these.
The best part of this book is authors own critiques of shortcomings of many feminist movements.
Also I really loved how easy the book was to read and the structure. Would definitely recommend this.
The author of the book must be appreciated for portraying the real face of dirty and creepy minded people. And yes, one who pass comments on women are both man as well as woman.
Smashing the Patriarchy is a step to present young Indian women belonging to different backgrounds battling and overcoming the patriarchy in their day to day lives.
A woman not only has to face the comments on her body but also she's judged on the basis of her dress style and working ability. There are innumerable women issues that need attention & the author had tried to do the same.
The chapters in the book are all mind blowing. My favourite is 'Women at Work’. This chapter details how young women tend to shift work culture across industries.
Overall, this book is quite knowledgeable for society and it's belongings. Human beings must grab this book and know what's the actual circumstances a woman goes through in her daily live.
I don't think I have to give a detailed explanation regarding the content of the book, since it is crystal clear from the title itself. However, it is not a usual feministic read. Rather, the author tries to analyze feminism from a different perspective, which makes the book stand apart.
Navigating through the voices and lives of some bold women, the book unveils various challenges that women have to face owing to their femaleness. It also puts forward inspiring accounts of overcoming those barriers by smashing the patriarchy.
The author has adopted a firm stand throughout the book, which makes it a worthy read. Her voice is strong too. The language seems pretty good with a suitable narration. I would like to recommend this to all women, especially the youngsters, as I strongly feel that it is indeed a much-needed guide for 21st-century Indian women.
The storyline is how the women's developed wanted in every line of that is truly amazing and the best way of expressing the feminism
And the rights which we were not in touch and our society just want us below them In every society the mens always wants women's below them every want the women's canes ups was the true of our society but in this book its truly opposing views of people
As I'm really see the truth in the book I would say author well placed every line with a perfect time ....
I really amazed by the book and the language is very lucid and the tittle and cover is very catchy and beautiful Last but not least I really recommended the book to all the readers
Smashing The Patriarchy is an important book for the recent times. Feminism, as a concept, is very misunderstood and, as a practicality, is the need of the hour. Sindhu Rajasekaran has provided a holistic view and perspective regarding this topic through her book. She has covered every aspect - from femininity to love to career to family - everything has been analysed and presented with a more appropriate approach. Besides the amazing content and the handling of it, the appearance of the book really appealed to me. The feeling of reading this book was something. Let us not forget the phenomenon writing with the language being suitable for every woman. I would highly recommend this book to a pan-gender readership. Happy reading!
Smashing the patriarchy - what else could have attracted me to the book other than this striking title! The book unveils the life of some inspiring women who have fought against society and smashed the borders of patriarchy with the help of their will power and determination.
I loved the author’s approach to feminism. Her words sound clear and poignant. The language seems strong, so are her views, which sometimes leave scope for debates. I appreciate her efforts in researching and putting up her thoughts efficiently in a convincing yet firm tone.
It would be a great pick for those who are interested in reading social issues. Especially if you are interested in feminism and other women-related issues, this book is indeed a must-read.
Smashing the patriarchy - what else could have attracted me to the book other than this striking title! The book unveils the life of some inspiring women who have fought against society and smashed the borders of patriarchy with the help of their will power and determination.
I loved the author’s approach to feminism. Her words sound clear and poignant. The language seems strong, so are her views, which sometimes leave scope for debates. I appreciate her efforts in researching and putting up her thoughts efficiently in a convincing yet firm tone.
It would be a great pick for those who are interested in reading social issues. Especially if you are interested in feminism and other women-related issues, this book is indeed a must-read.