WATCHING AND BEING WATCHED: POWER, SURVEILLANCE AND AGENCY WITHIN THE DEVADASI SYSTEM

Title

WATCHING AND BEING WATCHED: POWER, SURVEILLANCE AND AGENCY WITHIN THE DEVADASI SYSTEM

Creator

Thomas, JISA Ann; Anna, Varghese; Vagishwari, Sp

Description

This article explores the devadasi system in India through the dual thoughts of Michael Foucaults Panopticism and Agency Theory, examining how power dynamics and social control mechanisms were both enforced and resisted. The devadasi system, originally a revered religious practice, evolved into a complex structure of exploitation and marginalization, where women dedicated to temple service were subjected to pervasive surveillance and disciplinary practices. By applying Panopticism, this study reveals how the British administrators and the nationalists maintained strict control over devadasis, ensuring their subjugation within the social hierarchy. Simultaneously, Agency Theory illuminates how devadasis challenged these oppressive structures, asserting their autonomy in subtle but significant ways. This analysis not only deepens our understanding of the devadasi system but also contributes to broader discussions on the intersections of power, control and agency in marginalized communities. The study also highlights the importance of examining historical systems of oppression through critical and theoretical frameworks to uncover both the mechanisms of control and the resilience of those subjected to them. 2025 Journal of Dharma: Dharmaram Journal of Religions and Philosophies (DVK, Bangalore), ISSN: 0253-7222.

Source

Journal of Dharma;Volume;50;Issue;1;pp.9-28

Date

01-01-2025

Publisher

Dharma Research Association

Subject

Agency Theory; Autonomy; Devadasi; Discipline; Panopticism; Power; Religion; Surveillance

Coverage

Thomas J.A., Christ (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India; Anna V., Christ (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India; Vagishwari S., Department of International Studies, Political Science and History at Christ (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India

Rights

Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library

Relation

ISSN: 2537222;

Format

online

Language

English

Type

Article

Identifier

https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105017509907?origin=resultslist