• J. Alisha Josephine

Nafisa Haji’s The Writing on My Forehead compellingly explores the nuanced intersections of identity, tradition, and adaptation within the immigrant experience. Through the lens of Saira Qader, a young woman navigating the complexities of her South Asian heritage in America, the novel illuminates the ongoing conflicts between generational expectations and individual desires. This articledelves into how the protagonist’s journey epitomizes the challenges of cultural preservation amidst the pervasive influences of a dominant host culture. Analyzing the impacts of diaspora, the narrative sheds light on the intricate dynamics of cultural hegemony, as theorized by Antonio Gramsci, highlighting how cultural institutions both constrain and facilitate personal autonomy. The text vividly portrays the dichotomy between traditional values and contemporary realities, examining how second-generation immigrants grapple with cultural hybridity. Key themes include cultural identity, acculturation, generational conflict, and the role of women in diasporic communities. By dissecting these elements, this study underscores the delicate balance between maintaining one’s heritage and embracing new cultural landscapes, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the immigrant identity formation process.

cultural identity, diaspora, acculturation, generational conflict, cultural hegemony, immigrant experience

"Cultural Crossroads: The Struggle for Identity and Tradition in the Immigrant Experience in Nafisa Haji’s The Writing on my Forehead", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.5, Issue 6, page no.15-20, June-2018, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1806947.pdf

"Cultural Crossroads: The Struggle for Identity and Tradition in the Immigrant Experience in Nafisa Haji’s The Writing on my Forehead", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.5, Issue 6, page no. pp15-20, June-2018, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1806947.pdf