CULTURAL TENSIONS AND THE DIASPORIC EXPERIENCE IN SISTER OF MY HEART BY CHITRA BANERJEE DIVAKARUNI

Abstract

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s Sister of My Heart delves into the complex interplay of cultural expectations and diasporic identity through the intertwined lives of two cousins, Anju and Sudha. The novel explores the deep-rooted traditions of Indian society, including gender roles, family obligations, and arranged marriages, while simultaneously presenting the challenges of adapting to new cultural landscapes, particularly in the United States. As the protagonists navigate between the worlds of tradition and modernity, homeland and diaspora, they encounter a range of emotional and psychological tensions. These tensions are portrayed through their shifting roles as daughters, wives, and independent women striving for self-definition. The novel highlights how the diasporic experience acts both as a space of alienation and empowerment, where cultural identity is constantly negotiated. Divakaruni skillfully portrays the inner conflict between preserving one’s heritage and embracing personal freedom, making Sister of My Heart a poignant narrative of transformation, resistance, and resilience. Through the dual perspectives of the protagonists, the novel presents a richly textured portrayal of immigrant life, familial bonds, and the struggle for autonomy within and beyond cultural boundaries.