Draupadi: Modern Woman Voice in The Palace of Illusion by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

• Author(s): Vanshika Verma
• Paper ID: 1709313
• Page: 962-965
• Published Date: 19-06-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 8 Issue 12 June-2025

Abstract

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s novel The Palace of Illusions offers a refreshing retelling of the Mahabharata from a distinctly female perspective. In this work, Divakaruni gives voice to Draupadi also known as Panchaali who has long been sidelined in traditional, male-centered narratives of the epic. While earlier versions of the Mahabharata largely emphasized male heroes and relegated women to the background, this novel brings Draupadi to the forefront, portraying her as a complex, modern woman. The author reimagines Draupadi not merely as a supporting character, but as the central figure whose thoughts, desires, and struggles drive the story forward. This paper explores how Draupadi's voice in The Palace of Illusions embodies the sensibilities of a contemporary woman, challenging patriarchal norms and asserting her place in a traditionally male-dominated saga.

Keywords

Feminism, Identity, Suppression of woman

Citations

IRE Journals:
Vanshika Verma "Draupadi: Modern Woman Voice in The Palace of Illusion by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 12 2025 Page 962-965

IEEE:
Vanshika Verma "Draupadi: Modern Woman Voice in The Palace of Illusion by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(12)