Gender, Power, and Social Resistance in The Ministry of Utmost Happiness

Abstract

This paper examines the representation of gender, power, and social resistance in The Ministry of Utmost Happiness by Arundhati Roy*. The novel portrays the complex realities of marginalized individuals who struggle against rigid social structures, political authority, and patriarchal norms in contemporary Indian society. Through characters such as Anjum and Tilo, the narrative highlights the experiences of those positioned outside dominant gender and social hierarchies, including members of the hijra community, women, and other socially excluded groups. The study explores how Roy critiques institutional power, including state control, religious authority, and socio-cultural traditions that reinforce inequality and discrimination. At the same time, the novel illustrates various forms of resistance, ranging from personal acts of defiance to the creation of alternative communities that challenge dominant social norms. By analyzing the intersections of gender identity, power relations, and social resistance, this study demonstrates how Roy’s narrative contributes to broader discussions on marginalization, identity, and social justice in contemporary literature.