Female sexuality, regulation and resistance

Women and the Perpetuation of Caste System in Nepal

“…In addition, they have explored mechanisms that are utilized to sustain sexual and caste purity and women's complicity in sustaining both patriarchy and caste system (Mishra forthcoming). A number of authors have written on the role of women in sustaining the caste system (Chakravarti, 2004;Dube, 1997;Khanna & Price, 1994). It is, therefore, essential to explore the relationship between caste and gender in general and women's role in maintaining caste system in particular.…”

“…Therefore, both "higher caste" women and "lower-caste" men were kept under the strict control of "high-caste" men and the society they led (Chakravarti, 2004). Khanna & Price (1994) discuss factors such as class, religion, caste, and ethnicity which are utilized to varying extents to manage and control female sexuality. Nath (2012) argues that religion and state are the major institutions that perpetuate patriarchy and women's subordination.…”

“…It may be noted that South Asian feminists have explored the control over women's sexuality much more intensively as compared with issues such as interconnections between caste, gender and economy (Cameron, 1995), women's resistance against control (Khanna & Price, 1994), and women's role in maintaining the caste system (Dube, 1997). Khanna and Price, in this connection note that "sexuality has often been regarded as a source of male power and female oppression.…”

Culture of sex : sexual linguistics and discourse of Cosmopolitan editions in the United States, France and India

“…Female sexuality is something that should be controlled; however, with its ancient and popular Kama Sutra and its predominately Hindu society, India presents a unique approach to sexuality. Additionally, Khanna and Price (1994) asserted that this control of sexuality began during British colonization of India; since that time, women in India have been fighting this traditional view of sexuality, which is still dominant.…”

“…What is important to note, however, is that even though the magazine might use a similar discourse as Cosmopolitan, the fact that it is published in a country with different sociocultural standards could mean Cosmopolitan India appeals to a unique audience. While Cosmopolitan is published in the United States and appeals to sexually active, if naïve or insecure readers, Cosmopolitan India is published in a society that research (John & Nair, 1998;Kakar, 1989;Khanna & Price, 1994) has indicated attempts to control sexuality. Therefore, as Cosmopolitan India might also be a cultural resource, it could be particularly informative to women who, in a more conservative society, may not have access to information presented in such an easyto-understand and available format.…”