Identity Erasure and Female Mental Well-being: A Qualitative Analysis of “Mukherjee Dar Bou"

Abstract

The present research attempts to examine the depiction of the phenomenon of identity loss and the mental well-being of females in “Mukherjee Dar Bou”, a Bengali movie that focuses on the emotional and psychological aspects of females in a normal domestic setup. The paper will explore the representation of the gradual erosion of the personality of females in their regular social and familial roles and responsibilities. As opposed to portraying mental illness from a clinical point of view or using psychological language, the movie reflects that emotional distress, silence, and distress are part of life.

In order to conduct the analysis, a qualitative textual approach will be used to analyze the narrative techniques, character relationships, dialogue, silence, and symbolic imagery used in the movie. This approach will shed light on the implications of identity loss for the mental well-being of females in a familial setting. In addition, the personal identity of the protagonist will remain symbolic because her identity as a wife will become prominent.

It will also explore the impact of domestic interactions, generational pressure, and patriarchal customs on psychological exhaustion and invisibility. The film also demonstrates the role of empathy, acknowledgment, and consciousness in healing emotionally and asserting oneself. In addition, by focusing on regional cinema, this paper contributes to media and gender studies literature by revealing how female emotional wellness can be captured in everyday domestic realities instead of being framed by mental illness. This paper argues that Mukherjee Dar Bou is a culturally important narrative of women’s identity and emotional well-being in contemporary Indian cinema.