DefinePK

Abstract

Dr. Tarannum Riyaz holds a significant place in contemporary Urdu fiction, particularly through her short story collection Ababeelain Laut Aayengi. This study provides a psychological and socio-literary analysis of her narratives, highlighting women’s emotions, inner conflicts, and the socio-cultural constraints they face. Riyaz portrays the lived realities of women navigating emotional vulnerabilities and social injustices, addressing themes such as poverty, patriarchal oppression, and male neglect of familial responsibilities. Her stories also reflect the complexities of urban life, financial insecurities, and shifting gender relations, offering symbolic depth and emotive resonance. By situating her work within broader debates on women in Urdu literature, the study emphasizes Riyaz’s contribution to feminist literary criticism and her role in expanding contemporary Urdu narrative. Through a close reading of selected stories, the analysis reveals how Riyaz employs psychological realism to depict the inner turmoil of her female protagonists, who grapple with societal expectations and personal aspirations. Her portrayal of urban women underscores the tension between tradition and modernity, critiquing patriarchal structures while celebrating female resilience. This research draws on feminist theory, psychoanalytic criticism, and socio-cultural perspectives to evaluate Riyaz’s innovative narrative techniques, such as stream-of-consciousness and symbolic imagery, which enhance the emotional impact of her work. Ultimately, the study argues that Riyaz’s fiction not only documents the struggles of marginalized women but also advocates for social reform, making her a pivotal voice in Urdu literature’s feminist discourse. Her stories serve as a mirror to contemporary Pakistani society, fostering empathy and awareness for gender issues.