Androgyny and Female Impersonation in India: Nari Bhav

Book Details

• Author: Tutun Mukherjee

• Brand: Niyogi Books

• Edition: First Edition

• Binding: Hardcover

• Number of Pages: 356

• Release Date: 20-10-2016

• ISBN: 9789385285462

• Package Dimensions: 9.0 x 6.2 x 0.7 inches

• Languages: English

About the Book

Androgyny: Nari Bhav and the Interplay of the Feminine and Masculine explores the intricate and often overlooked concept of androgyny in Indian culture. This volume goes beyond the typical definitions of gender and the often narrow "third sex" or "third gender" classifications, offering a profound discussion on the cultural and artistic significance of androgyny in India.

Tutun Mukherjee delves into the idea of ‘nari bhav’, a sensibility that transcends anatomical gender distinctions and addresses the fluidity between the feminine and the masculine, embodied through spiritual and artistic traditions. The book draws on centuries-old cultural beliefs such as the representation of Ardhanariswara, where the divine is symbolized as a harmonious blend of both male and female energies, to highlight how duality within individuals is not only accepted but celebrated.

The work also addresses the aesthetic validity of androgyny and its presence in various performative traditions in India—ranging from classical religious practices, theatre, and dance to contemporary mediums such as cinema, television, and the internet. It explores how these traditions reflect and contribute to broader social attitudes toward gender and sexuality, advocating for more inclusivity and acceptance.

The volume also presents insightful interviews with performers of the dying art form of female impersonation, offering a rare glimpse into their craft and experiences.

Key Features

• Explores the concept of androgyny through cultural, religious, and artistic lenses, offering a deeper understanding beyond anatomical definitions.

• ‘Nari Bhav’ and the interplay of the feminine and masculine are discussed within the broader context of societal attitudes and the fluidity of gender roles.

• Interviews with practitioners of female impersonation provide firsthand accounts of the craft, shedding light on a fading yet significant tradition.

• Bridges traditional cultural beliefs with contemporary issues, offering a modern perspective on inclusivity, gender expression, and sexuality.