A Queer Theoretical Analysis of Identity and Selfhood: The Character of Malli in Ram C/O Anandhi

Author(s)	Ms. Anithamol K Joseph
Country	India
Abstract	Through the character of Malli in Ram C/O Anandhi, this paper offers a queer theoretical examination of identity and selfhood. It examines how Malli's identity as a transwoman is malleable and influenced by both lived experiences and societal conventions. Drawing on the concept of gender performativity by Judith Butler, the study explores how identity is formed through repeated actions and social interactions rather than biology. Through close textual analysis, it shows how Malli negotiates her selfhood within a heteronormative society that enforces rigid gender roles. Her experiences challenge binary ideas of gender and highlight identity as performative and evolving. The paper ultimately presents Malli as an active agent who constructs her own identity beyond socially imposed limits.
Keywords	Queer Theory; Gender Performativity; Identity Construction; Selfhood; Heteronormativity; Transgender Representation;
Field	Arts
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On	2026-03-31
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.72896

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