Hello everyone,
Movie screening committee organized "A Disability themed movie screening series" at Department of English for deep study of Disability studies in literature.
What is disability study ?
The answer of this particular question is, Disability studies, an interdisciplinary area of study based in the humanities and social sciences that views disability in the context of culture, society, and politics rather than through the lens of medicine or psychology.(Britannica)
Disability studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the social, cultural, political, and economic factors that define and affect disability. This field emerged from the activism of disabled people in the 1970s and involves both academics and activists. It challenges the traditional medical model, which views disability as a defect that needs to be corrected, and instead promotes the social model, which sees disability as a result of societal barriers and discrimination. Critical disability studies emphasize the lived experiences of disabled people, advocating for their rights and full inclusion in society.
The importance of disability studies in literature lies in its ability to provide a nuanced understanding of disability. Literature often reflects societal attitudes and can either reinforce stereotypes or challenge them by presenting disabled characters in a more complex and humanized manner. It allows for a deeper exploration of themes related to identity, autonomy, and social justice, and provides tools to advocate for the rights and dignity of disabled individual.
This term was first coined by black feminist scholar and social theorist Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw in her 1989 paper “Demarginalizing The Intersection Of Race And Sex: A Black Feminist Critique Of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory And Antiracist Politics”.
Margarita with a Straw: A Critical Analysis
Margarita with a Straw is a cinematic exploration of disability, identity, and sexuality. The film centers around Laila, a young woman with cerebral palsy, who defies societal expectations and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
The narrative challenges conventional portrayals of disability by presenting a protagonist who is vibrant, independent, and sexually active. Laila's character subverts stereotypes, demonstrating that individuals with disabilities can lead fulfilling lives filled with love, ambition, and complexity. The film's refusal to indulge in pity or sentimentality is a significant departure from traditional depictions.
Moreover, the film makes a bold statement about sexuality and disability. It openly addresses Laila's sexual desires and experiences, breaking taboos and challenging societal prejudices. By doing so, the film contributes to a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of human sexuality.
Through Laila's experiences, the film also explores themes of intersectionality and gender. Her journey highlights the challenges faced by individuals who are marginalized on multiple fronts. By showcasing Laila's resilience and triumphs, the film advocates for a society that embraces diversity and equality.
Margarita with a Straw is a groundbreaking film that pushes the boundaries of Indian cinema. It offers a fresh perspective on disability, sexuality, and identity, contributing to a broader conversation about representation and inclusivity.
The best way to improve the status of disabled people is through realism, not carefully crafted ‘message films. “Accurately depicting disabled people is the only way that we will see improvements to the treatment of disabled people. Our lives are not all positivity and sunshine. We need to see the good and the bad because people have this unrealistic view of what being disabled is like.”
Thank you.
Reference :
file:///C:/Users/asd/Downloads/7._Tejaswini_Deo_Article_Ad_Litteram_Journal_December_2023_Edition_Volume_8.pdf
No comments:
Post a Comment