Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part B (2025)

Padma Desai’s autobiography Breaking Out: An Indian Woman’s American Journey serves as a compelling social discourse, juxtaposing the societal structures of India and the United States. This study explores the autobiographical narrative as a literary and sociological construct, analyzing the transformation of an Indian woman navigating cultural expectations, gender roles, and academic aspirations. The research emphasizes the theoretical framework of discourse, as defined by Michel Foucault, and its role in shaping individual identity and societal norms.
The methodology includes a critical analysis of Desai’s experiences, highlighting her struggles against patriarchal norms in India, her pursuit of academic excellence, and her eventual assimilation into American society. Her journey illustrates the contrast between Indian traditions that impose restrictions on women and the liberating influence of the Western world. The study also examines the marginalization of women, particularly widows, as seen in Desai’s depiction of her paternal aunt, and the generational shift in attitudes toward gender roles and relationships.
Results indicate that Desai’s narrative provides valuable insights into cross-cultural gender dynamics, the constraints imposed by Indian social structures, and the broader implications of self-liberation through education and independence. The study underscores the importance of autobiographies in reflecting social realities and inspiring discourse on gender and identity.
In conclusion, Desai’s Breaking Out exemplifies the power of life-writing as both personal testimony and cultural critique. Her experiences challenge existing paradigms and advocate for societal progress, making her story a significant contribution to literary and feminist studies.