Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Faculty Publications Article Faculty Publications -Articles Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Thomas, JISA Ann; Anna, Varghese; Vagishwari, Sp Title A name given to the resource WATCHING AND BEING WATCHED: POWER, SURVEILLANCE AND AGENCY WITHIN THE DEVADASI SYSTEM Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01-01-2025 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Journal of Dharma;Volume;50;Issue;1;pp.9-28 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context <a href="https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105017509907?origin=resultslist" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105017509907?origin=resultslist</a> Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 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 Description An account of the resource 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. Subject The topic of the resource Agency Theory; Autonomy; Devadasi; Discipline; Panopticism; Power; Religion; Surveillance Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Dharma Research Association Relation A related resource ISSN: 2537222; Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource online