• Tholkappiyan. K

The representation of female protagonists in contemporary cinema, especially in the context of patriarchal societies, offers a rich terrain for feminist critique. Kanaa (2018), a Tamil-language film directed by Siddharth Sivakumar, follows the journey of Kousalya, a young woman from rural Tamil Nadu, as she strives to break through societal and familial boundaries to become a professional cricketer. By analyzing Kousalya’s character through the lens of feminist film theory, this paper explores the ways in which Kanaa critiques gendered expectations, patriarchal structures, and the societal constraints imposed on women. The film’s portrayal of a female protagonist who challenges traditional gender roles in a male-dominated sport, while navigating familial and societal pressures, offers a nuanced discussion of female agency, ambition, and empowerment. This paper examines key feminist themes such as breaking gender norms, family dynamics, the intersection of desire and societal expectations, and the symbolic significance of the cricket field as a space of resistance. By exploring these elements, the paper demonstrates how Kanaa contributes to ongoing feminist discussions in contemporary Indian cinema.

Feminist film theory, female protagonists, gender roles, Kousalya, Kanaa, cricket, patriarchy, empowerment, familial dynamics, gendered spaces, agency.

"Feminist Analysis Of Female Protagonists In Modern Cinema: A Case Study Of Kanaa", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 1, page no.a417-a421, January-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2501049.pdf

"Feminist Analysis Of Female Protagonists In Modern Cinema: A Case Study Of Kanaa", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 1, page no. ppa417-a421, January-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2501049.pdf