Gender Contestation and Identities: A Multimodal Analysis of Selected Pakistani Plays (Dramas)

Abstract

Women's contestation is becoming the leading cause of misrepresented image of women in society. Digital media is promoting contested images of women which are affecting the minds of the new generation. Present research aims to explore the contested images of women in Pakistani TV dramas “Jhooti”and “mere paas tum ho” using a multimodal analysis. The study employs three multimodalities: image representational meaning, interpersonal interpretation, and textual representation, and also utilizes colour symbolism theory. Additionally, responses from students of BS English, 8th semester, from two universities in Multan, the Institute of Southern Punjab and Bahaud-din-Zakriya university, were collected and analyzed through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. Data is collected through questionnaire. This is primarily done to know how the young generation perceive women’s image thorough the lens of media. The study's findings suggest that Pakistani electronic media does not accurately portray the image of women in society through its drama serials, often depicting those who defy stereotypes as "rebels" and promoting the idea that women who stay at home are the "ideal."