A Critique on Mahasweta Devi's Bayen

This paper is an attempt to critically analyse the play Bayen by Mahasweta Devi. It deals with the theme of ‘Gender Discrimination’ and spots out the ways in which the social position as a ‘Bayen’ is imposed through continuous abuse and vicious humiliations. Mahasweta Devi speaks about the subjugation of women in patriarchal society. While forcing a woman of her duties, her right to live her life is repeatedly buried in the Patriarchal Society. Chandidasi, the protagonist, is presented as a ‘Bayen’ and is separated from her husband, Malindar and her son, Bhagirath because of the superstitious belief. Eventhough she wants to quit her job, she is completely trapped in her ancestral tradition. According to the tradition, a ‘Bayen’ is a woman who feeds the dead children, guards the graves and has the capacity to damn others. Mahasweta portrays the condition of a tribal community and the position of woman called ‘Bayen’ in the society. Till the end of her life, Chandidasi ghts for her freedom, justice and true identity as a mother in the coldhearted society