The Invisible Struggles of Marginalized Women in Rohinton Mistry’s A Fine Balance

Abstract

This article examines Rohinton Mistry’s portrayal of women’s marginalization through the character of Dina Dalal in his novel A Fine Balance from an Ecofeminist perspective. Dina, a strong and independent woman, navigates the oppressive forces of patriarchy and economic hardship after her husband’s death. Despite her efforts to maintain financial independence through a tailoring business, she is repeatedly undermined by societal structures that limit women’s autonomy. The novel critiques the intersection of gender, class, and economic oppression, illustrating how women, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, are marginalized and denied opportunities for self-sufficiency. Through Dina’s struggles, Mistry highlights the difficulties women face in defying patriarchal norms, even when they demonstrate resilience and determination. The narrative ultimately underscores the harsh realities of life for women in a male-dominated world, where personal autonomy is constantly under siege, and social and economic systems work against their freedom.