TAYA (By Her)

Synopsis

Savitri Antharjanam, better known as Kuriyeda Thu Taatri, is an enduring icon worthy of superstardom in women’s struggle for gender justice. The body blow struck at the vicious patriarchy that ruled her community is part of folklore in the south Indian state of Kerala. Taatri’s legacy fuelled intense debate in  Kerala, particularly in the upper-caste Namboothiri Brahmin community which she belonged to in the last century. Changes came, but subjugation of women continued in one form or the other.  This makes Taatri a legend and ‘Taya’ relevant even now. Noted writer, social reformer and freedom fighter V.T. Bhattathiripad, a Namboothiri himself described Taatri’s life as a tit-for-tat response to the male sexual anarchy in her community.