Irwan Sumarsono, Suprihatien Suprihatien, Imam Baehaqie, Endang Poerbowati, Guruh Nuary
This study analyzes Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Gangubai Kathiawadi through the lens of Axel Honneth's recognition theory, focusing on the efforts to achieve dignity through a prestigious profession. While sex workers in India are often victims of shame and exclusion, the film serves as a narrative counter depicting how Gangubai managed to turn stigma into empowerment. This study employs qualitative content analysis methods to examine scenes and dialogues, exploring how Gangubai navigates three domains: love, human rights, and solidarity. The findings of the study show that this degree is achieved by assuming the role of a mother figure in her community, by demanding legal and political recognition for sex workers, and by earning social esteem as a respected leader. By making dignity a central theme, the study moves beyond conventional discussions of marginalization and stigma by offering a new look at how Bollywood films reimagine sex workers as agents of empowerment and justice. This analysis places Gangubai Kathiawadi as a significant cultural text that redefines womanhood and advocates for the recognition of marginalized identities. © 2025, Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. All rights reserved.
Politeknik Elektronika Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia; Universitas Wijaya Kusuma Surabaya, Indonesia; Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia; Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya, Indonesia; Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia
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