Vol. 11, Issue 2, Part D (2025)

Abstract
The reimagining of women in mythological narratives helps to resolve ambiguities and present their stories in new ways. Mythology influences perceptions of gender roles and the status of women in society. The representation of women is often marked by contradictions. Therefore, contemporary women writers revisit traditional stories and reinterpret them through female perspectives which leads to the reimagining of mythological women with a modern outlook. The Forest of Enchantments is a reinterpretation of ‘Ramayana’ focusing on Sita’s experiences and perspective to the forefront by framing it as ‘Sitayana’. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni examines Draupadi’s perspective as a redressal effort to readers. Draupadi in The Palace of Illusions subverts traditional and archetypal models of femininity. The shift in point of view gives Sita and Draupadi the voice to challenge patriarchy and gender roles. Their defiance against unjust norms promotes empowerment and inspiration to modern women. Reinterpretation will lead to demystification which can change the image of women fixed in people’s minds. Mythological tales confine women to fit into certain archetypes. Their strength is often seen in endurance but the reimagination of those characters challenges and resists these societal expectations.