A Bad Woman's Story: A Translation of Buri Aurat ki Katha by Kishwar Naheed

"A Bad Woman's Story: A Translation of Buri Aurat ki Katha" is the English translation of Kishwar Naheed's groundbreaking work, originally written in Urdu. This book provides a powerful narrative that explores the struggles, resistance, and resilience of women in a patriarchal society. Kishwar Naheed, a prominent feminist and poet, uses her literary prowess to challenge societal norms and depict the harsh realities faced by women. The translation by Duedana Soomro brings this compelling story to a broader audience, preserving the essence and intensity of the original text.

Key Features

• Powerful Narrative

  • Women's Struggles: The book delves into the challenges women face in a male-dominated society, highlighting issues such as gender discrimination, oppression, and the fight for autonomy.

• Feminist Perspective

  • Empowerment: Kishwar Naheed’s work is deeply rooted in feminist ideology, advocating for women's rights and empowerment through her vivid storytelling.

• Cultural Context

  • South Asian Society: The narrative is set against the backdrop of South Asian culture, providing insights into the societal expectations and pressures on women in this region.

• Translation Quality

  • Faithful Translation: Duedana Soomro's translation captures the essence of the original Urdu text, maintaining the emotional depth and cultural nuances of Naheed's work.

• Critical Themes

  • Patriarchy and Rebellion: The book addresses critical themes such as the defiance of patriarchal norms, the consequences of rebellion, and the quest for identity.

• Literary Merit

  • Poetic Prose: Kishwar Naheed’s background as a poet enriches the prose, making the narrative both poignant and lyrical.

• Impactful Message

  • Social Critique: The story serves as a powerful critique of the societal structures that oppress women, urging readers to reflect on the need for change.

• Character Development

  • Complex Characters: The protagonist’s journey is depicted with complexity and nuance, reflecting the multifaceted nature of women’s experiences.

• Universal Appeal

  • Global Relevance: While rooted in a specific cultural context, the themes of gender equality and resistance resonate with readers worldwide.

• Educational Value

  • Discussion Material: The book is an excellent resource for discussions on gender studies, feminist literature, and South Asian culture in academic settings.

Conclusion

"A Bad Woman's Story: A Translation of Buri Aurat ki Katha" is a significant literary work that sheds light on the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Kishwar Naheed's powerful narrative, brought to life in English by Duedana Soomro, continues to inspire and provoke thought on issues of gender, identity, and resistance.

                                                      ════ ⋆★⋆ ═══

Writer                 ✤     Kishwar Naheed (Author), Duedana Soomro (Author)

Publishers           ✤    OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS PAKISTAN

This book is Kishwar Naheed's response to those who are quick to label a woman as bad. It is a searing indictment of a society that uses custom, religion and even brute force to keep women down. She hits out hard and fearlessly at social and political injustices and at the materialism and sham religiosity she sees around her. It's what you would expect of one of Pakistan's leading feminist poets, known for her defiance and outspokenness. Born to a conservative family in pre-partition India, at a time when women were in such purdah that they could not show their hand to a hakim without dipping it in flour, Naheed saw these same women turn into political activists in the run-up to Partition. She too learned to do battle early on--to go to college like her brothers, to express herself and, at the age of 19, to marry the man of her choice. The marriage turned sour and it is an indication of her refreshing candour that she doesn't gloss over her hurt and disappointment. Rich in literary, historical and cultural allusions, A Bad Woman's Story is written in a punchy, witty style that keeps the reader engaged and entertained from beginning to end.