Sexualized Objects and the Embodiment of Caste Honour: Rape in Dalit Women-centric Movies

Abstract

Several popular Hindi movies feature attempted rapes and gang rapes, reinforcing the rape culture, which must be problematized. The study analyses selected movies and demonstrates that the caste and gendered form of sexual violence carries multiple levels, the nature of gang rape, rape as erotic entertainment, and an embodiment of caste honour with rape as an element of revenge. These elements are unique to Indian movies as they incite caste honours, and normalize sexual assaults, supporting and glorifying Indian rape culture. The study illustrates the awareness of the culture of caste and gendered honour-based dominant caste ideologies in selected movies and demonstrates how these can legitimize and encourage rape. This could lead to a better-integrated understanding of this rural rape culture. The study argues that the Indian mainstream film industry has mainly portrayed Dalit women’s rape and suggests Savarna filmmakers’ obedience to such portrayals has consequently intensified the hype and reproduction of rape culture in Indian society. Significantly, the last decade has witnessed noticeable accumulations in sexual violence against the subaltern Dalit women aggregated.