Papers by Maitrayee patar
Explorations- ISS Journal, 2019
Based on empirical field research, this paper critically looks at the different constructions aro... more Based on empirical field research, this paper critically looks at the different constructions around menstruation among women in Assam in terms of menstrual rituals, taboos and prescriptions and lived experiences. It attempts to explore the negotiations and bargains that take place around menstrual taboos in the everyday of the menstruating women and the complex role that individual agency plays in pushing the boundaries of these taboos. The paper looks at the ways in which menstrual taboos are negotiated or reinforced in the everyday experiences of the women, and the individual agency that navigates through prescriptions towards subversion. It looks into the traditional initiation rites of puberty that the Assamese girl has to go through at menarche, and tries to locate the structures of patriarchy that works through the menarche rituals. Women have been seen as central characters of this research and women’s own perspectives have been kept on the front while arriving at an understanding of their everyday negotiations with menstrual taboos and prescriptions.
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Papers by Maitrayee patar