A Study of Ecofeminism: Indira Goswami’s The Blue-necked God

Abstract

Ecofeminism, both an academic discourse and a socio-political movement, asserts that the exploitation of nature and women stems largely from patriarchal structures. Ecofeminist thinkers identify patriarchy and capitalism as central forces responsible for environmental degradation and the subjugation of women. As Greta Gaard observes, ecofeminism is grounded in the idea that the same ideological framework that legitimises oppression based on race, class, gender, sexuality, and species also justifies the exploitation of nature. In The Blue-necked God, Indira Goswami highlights her concern regarding the suffering of both women and the natural environment in the sacred city of Vrindavan. The novel reveals a deep interconnection between ecological destruction and the marginalisation of radheshyamis—widows who survive by singing devotional songs in temples.