In early rigid societies ‘gender role’ was labeled as masculine and feminine. However today the traditional notions about gender roles are undergoing transformation; changing roles in the social and economical spheres had led to the change in the gender roles as well. Mahesh Dattani in the play “Dance Like a Man” portrays the patriarchal society of the 1970’s. It focuses on three generations –Amritlal Parekh ,Jairaj, his son, his wife Ratna , their daughter Lata and future son in law Viswas. Throughout the play the past, the present and the future are seamlessly connected in one story spanning three generations and the struggles of each generation against the expected gender roles of society till the future generation experiences the freedom of choosing the roles they prefer regardless of their gender. Thus Mahesh Dattani holds a mirror to society, portraying reality as it was but at the same time moving through the cause and reason for a gradual positive change.
Volume 11 | 06-Special Issue
Pages: 1541-1543