Story perspectives

Feminist Theatre in India: Insights from Mehrotra's New Book

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Deepti Priya Mehrotra's book "Walking Out, Speaking Up" surveys feminist street theatre in India (late 1970s–1980s).
It highlights the play "Intezaar" for challenging the glorification of Sati and features Shanti's trauma-to-performance stories.
However, the book omits a detailed history of the Jan Natya Manch group, limiting its feminist impact.
Mehrotra also notes enthusiasm across collectives, but the narrative can feel repetitive and thesis-like.

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Story summary

Deepti Priya Mehrotra's book "Walking Out, Speaking Up" surveys feminist street theatre in India (late 1970s–1980s).
It highlights the play "Intezaar" for challenging the glorification of Sati and features Shanti's trauma-to-performance stories.
However, the book omits a detailed history of the Jan Natya Manch group, limiting its feminist impact.
Mehrotra also notes enthusiasm across collectives, but the narrative can feel repetitive and thesis-like.