Shurpankha as an assertive woman in Kavita Kane’s ‘Lanka’s Princess’ – a critical study

Indian mythology has been a subject of deep study and interest. Many people have reviewed and shared their thoughts regarding various mythological subjects. Various primary, secondary, male, female characters have been discussed on various platforms. But, there are many women characters who have not got justice regarding their lives and personality. A lot of them have been portrayed as negative and dark characters. The explanation behind their angst and revenge has been unknown or hidden. Kavita Kane in her works has tried to unravel the hidden personalities and various aspects of these characters. In this paper, the focus has been made on a very negatively approached woman character, Shurpankha, sister of Ravan, from the epic Ramayan. Was Shurpankha really hateful? What would have been the reasons behind her anguish and dark nature? Kavita Kane has made an effort to answer many such questions about Shurpankha, in her book ‘Lanka's Princess'. Even being a princess, what might have been the reasons about her revenge taking acts, that caused war between Ram and Ravan.