Resurgence of Sita in Select Contemporary Narratives

Abstract

In recent years, Sita from the Ramayana has been reimagined as a strong, independent character, breaking away from her traditional image as the epitome of passive virtue. This reimagining in contemporary literature reflects a broader cultural shift aimed at empowering mythological women by reclaiming their stories. This research will focus on Sita’s portrayal as a warrior and leader in works like Sita: Warrior of Mithila by Amish Tripathi and The Forest of Enchantments by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. By examining these narratives, the study will highlight how modern retellings emphasize Sita’s strength, agency, and resilience, challenging patriarchal norms and offering new models of womanhood