Author: Parneet Kaur

Abstract: The paper explores the condition of women in Nadia Hashimi's novel The Pearl That Broke Its Shell (2014). The novel follows the lives of two women, Shekiba and Rahima, who belong to different generations but share a similar fate as they struggle to survive in a patriarchal society. It demonstrates that, regardless of the time period, women continue to face oppression and must constantly fight for their survival and dignity. The study examines how both Shekiba and Rahima encounter similar social restrictions despite living generations apart. To escape discrimination and gain opportunities denied to girls, both are compelled to adopt the tradition of bacha posh, disguising themselves as boys and concealing their female identity. Through their experiences, the novel highlights the persistence of gender inequality and the enduring impact of patriarchal norms on women's lives. This paper not only explores their suffering but also examines how one woman's experiences inspire the other to challenge patriarchal oppression. Ultimately, both Shekiba and Rahima break free from the metaphorical ‘shell’ of social restrictions, assert their identities, strive to live their lives delightfully, and reject the norms of patriarchal society. However, they faced a lot of exploitation, lost their family members, were deprived of various rights such as education, property rights, playing freely, and choosing their life partners, and so on. It further emphasizes that despite continuous oppression, challenges, and social injustice, women demonstrate remarkable courage and determination.

Keywords: Gender Inequality, Identity Conflict, Patriarchal Society, Resilience, Women's Exploitation

Article Info: Received: 26 Jun 2026; Received in revised form: 22 Jul 2026; Accepted: 25 Jul 2026; Available online: 30 Jul 2026

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.114.24