Author(s): Athira S.

Abstract: In Aditi Banerjee's The Curse of Gandhari, Gandhari’s self-imposed blindness operates as a central narrative prosthesis, deeply influencing the development of her character and the thematic direction of the novel. Narrative prosthesis refers to the use of disability to advance the plot, reveal deeper meanings, or shape the trajectory of character development. Gandhari’s voluntary blindness serves multiple purposes—it reflects her internal conflict, symbolizes her moral dilemmas, and becomes a powerful metaphor for the blindness of power, fate, and maternal helplessness. This article examines how Gandhari’s blindness not only reflects her psychological state but also drives the narrative forward, making it an indispensable tool in the novel’s exploration of patriarchal restrictions, moral blindness, and the tragic weight of maternal responsibility.

Keywords: Gandhari, blindness, narrative prosthesis.

Article Info: Received: 29 Oct 2024; Received in revised form: 30 Nov 2024; Accepted: 07 Dec 2024; Available online: 13 Dec 2024

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.96.38