Love, Duty, and Independence: A Study of Virmati in Difficult Daughters

Abstract

This abstract examines Manju Kapur's novel Difficult Daughters, focusing on the protagonist Virmati's quest for independence and identity within traditional Indian society. The research questions addressed include Virmati's struggle against societal norms and her pursuit of personal fulfilment through education and love, amidst familial and societal pressures. The analysis highlights how Kapur's narrative challenges traditional gender roles and portrays the complexities of Virmati's clandestine relationship with Professor Harish Chandra as pivotal to her self-discovery. Through Virmati's journey, the study explores broader themes of empowerment and individuality, illustrating how her resilience and choices redefine notions of happiness and purpose. Ultimately, Kapur's portrayal of Virmati underscores universal themes of women's agency and societal expectations, resonating with contemporary discourses on gender and identity in literature.