Midnight's children

Narration Technique in ‘Midnight's Children’

Introduction:

            Salman Rushdie has emerged as a highly contentious figure within the recent years among the Indian diaspora. His breakthrough came with the release of his monumental work, "Midnight's Children," which secured the prestigious Booker of Bookers award in 1993. This novel was later recognized in 2008 as the paramount achievement among Bookers winners spanning four decades. Notably, the novel encompasses various remarkable aspects, with one of its most distinctive features being Rushdie's ingenious narrative approach.

            Rushdie's "Midnight's Children" introduces an entirely novel narrative technique, diverging significantly from conventional methods. Moreover, Rushdie set a precedent for exploring innovative narrative techniques and exploiting the potential of the English language. This groundbreaking approach steered Indian English literature into uncharted territories. William Walsh aptly lauds this technique, commending its fusion of magical elements, fantastical realms, unflinching realism, extravagant dynamism, intricate multi-faceted analogies, and a potent foundation of symbolism. Through this, Rushdie masterfully captures an unprecedented vitality within the novel that spans an exceptional scope and manner, achieving an unparalleled feat within the 150-year-old tradition of Indian novels in English.

The technique of first-person narrative:

            In "Midnight's Children," Rushdie employs a first-person narrative technique, wherein characters are introduced well in advance of their actual appearance within the narrative. This approach deliberately cultivates a sense of anticipation and curiosity in the readers. The novel traverses a span of seventy-five years, encapsulating the historical trajectory of the Indian subcontinent. The central character, Saleem Sinai, serves as the narrator, recounting not only his own birth but also the birth of the Indian subcontinent. This narrative strategy skillfully blurs the constraints of chronological order.

            Much like his counterpart in ancient Indian literature, Sanjay from the Mahabharata, who possesses the unique ability to perceive events from a distance and recounts the unfolding of the Kurukshetra war, Saleem Sinai similarly possesses a magical prowess. This extraordinary capability allows him to observe events from afar and delve into the thoughts of the readers. By harnessing this magical perspective, Rushdie weaves a narrative that transcends time and space, enriching the storytelling with a remarkable dimension.

The Use of Oriental and Western Techniques:

            In "Midnight's Children," Rushdie adeptly integrates both Eastern and Western literary references. He pays homage to several writers and their literary contributions, notably drawing inspiration from Laurence Sterne's "Tristram Shandy," Gunter Grass's "The Tin Drum," Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude," and Rudyard Kipling's "Kim." The novel's protagonist, Saleem, embodies a true cosmopolitan identity, embracing elements of Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity—a reflection of India's diverse religious and cultural amalgamation.

            "Midnight's Children" challenges the notion of a homogenous Hindu worldview dominating Indian society, as Saleem's experiences and interactions underscore a rich tapestry of pluralism. Rushdie's narrative structure is also indebted to sources like the Punch Tantra and Kathasaritsagara. Through these creative choices, Rushdie crafts a narrative that harmoniously weaves together a multitude of literary influences, giving rise to a work that resonates with both Eastern and Western literary traditions.

Magic realism:

            In "Midnight's Children," Salman Rushdie employs the technique of magic realism, a term originally coined by German art critic Frantz Roh in 1925 to describe tendencies observed in the works of certain German painters during the early twenties. However, this term found its initial literary application through the Cuban novelist Alejo Carpentier in the late 1940s. Essentially, magic realism emerged as a distinctive Latin American phenomenon characterized by the infusion of supernatural elements into narratives rooted in reality. Notable writers such as Jorge Luis Borges, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and Jorge Amado embraced this innovative approach. Key characteristics of this style include the interweaving of the realistic and the fantastical, the fusion of natural and supernatural elements, the deft manipulation of time shifts, and the incorporation of dreams, myths, fantasies, and fairy tales.

            Salman Rushdie has notably crafted critically acclaimed magical realist novels, with "Midnight's Children," "Shame," and "The Satanic Verses" showcasing this technique. Upon engaging with "Midnight's Children," it becomes apparent that the entire narrative is a seamless blend of reality and imagination, effortlessly oscillating between the tangible and the illusory.

            Numerous instances within "Midnight's Children" exemplify Rushdie's utilization of magic realism to shape the novel's foundation. The protagonist, Saleem Sinai, possesses an extraordinary sense of smell that enables him to delve into the thoughts and emotions of others. This extraordinary gift mirrors that of his grandfather, Adam Aziz, who also shared a remarkable nose and its magical capabilities. A poignant illustration of magic realism occurs during the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, wherein Adam's potent sneeze diverts his destiny and infuses humor into a historically significant event.

            Rushdie's manipulation of magic realism extends to pivotal moments within "Midnight's Children." For example, Saleem Sinai's incredible sense of smell, akin to his grandfather's, becomes a vital element that aids in their survival during critical junctures. The potency of Adam's sneeze evokes a blend of humor, empathy, and trepidation among readers, skillfully demonstrating Rushdie's adeptness at harmonizing magic realism with the gravity of India's history.

            In this manner, the author deftly employs magic realism to illuminate profound facets of reality through an imaginative lens, effectively weaving a narrative that resonates with both historical truths and imaginative allure.

The Cinematic Elements:

            The impact of the Bombay film industry on "Midnight's Children" is unmistakably apparent within its narrative. Rushdie extensively adopts the structure of the Bombay film industry, finding in it an ideal template for his novel. This alignment closely ties the novel to the characteristics of Hindi cinema. Recognizable narrative tropes, such as mistaken identity exchanges, and familiar cinematic character archetypes, such as the virtuous "ayah" Mary Pereira, evoke the essence of Bombay cinema. Notably, the switch between Shiva and Saleem during their births stands out as the most prominently discussed cinematic element within "Midnight's Children."

            Rushdie himself addresses this cinematic technique in his essay "Midnight's Children and Shame," wherein he comments on its significant impact. He describes it as a melodramatic tool that emerges from the sensibilities of the Bombay Talkies era, reflecting a notion inherent to the film-centric city. He emphasizes that such notions belong to the essence of these cities, shaping the characters not solely as products of their parents but as offspring of time, a reflection of history's influence.

            Other cinematic elements echo throughout the novel, including the juxtaposition of virtuous natural mothers and malevolent stepmothers, along with the contrast between righteous male protagonists and their villainous counterparts. A prime example emerges in the character of Shiva, Saleem's alter-ego, who seamlessly embodies both the role of the rebel hero and the antagonist akin to Bombay film conventions.

            Considering the reach and influence of Bombay cinema during the 1970s and 1980s, its impact on the Indian psyche is undeniable. The narrative's integration of cinematic elements speaks to the profound impression of cinema on Indian culture, skillfully aligning with the essence of the Bombay film industry.

Cornification of various languages:

            Another intriguing aspect of Rushdie's narrative involves the abundant infusion of English with Hindi and Urdu vocabulary, imbuing the novel with an oriental essence. This amalgamation of words can be aptly described as the mingling of various languages, akin to the concept of "chutnification." Within the text, he seamlessly incorporates numerous Hindi and Urdu terms, such as 'ekdum' (completely), 'angrez' (English person), 'nasbandi' (sterilization), 'dhoban' (washerwoman), 'firangee' (foreigner), 'rakshasas' (demons), 'garam masala' (spice mix), 'baba' (father), 'badmash' (miscreant), 'goondas' (thugs), 'sarpanch' (village head), 'paan' (betel leaf), 'khichari' (mixed dish), 'gur' (jaggery), seamlessly within the fluent English prose.

            Rushdie also employs various idiomatic expressions and phrases throughout the novel, such as 'baap-re-baap' (oh my God), 'hai-hai' (exclamation of disapproval), 'sab kuch' (everything), 'chi-chi' (expression of disgust), 'pyar kiya darna kya' (why fear when in love), 'ooper-niche' (up and down), 'bhai-bhai' (brothers), 'nimbu-pani' (lemon water), among others. At times, he ingeniously melds words and phrases to form compounds like 'overandover,' 'suchandsuch,' 'birthanddeath,' 'updownup,' 'blackasnight,' showcasing Rushdie's mastery over language and his inventive spirit. Such linguistic experiments render "Midnight's Children" an engaging and dynamic literary work.

            Occasionally, Rushdie intentionally misspells words, like 'unquestionabel' (unquestionable), 'straaange' (strange), 'ees' (is), 'existance' (existence), which adds a deliberate flavor to the text. He also employs grammatically incorrect words, such as 'mens' instead of 'men' and 'informations' instead of 'information,' thereby reflecting the everyday usage of English by Indians. These purposeful deviations contribute to the authenticity of language and communication within Indian contexts, enhancing the cultural richness of the narrative.

Conclusion:

            In conclusion, Rushdie's adept adoption of innovative narrative techniques has rendered "Midnight's Children" a work of fiction that is intricate and intellectually stimulating. This complexity, combined with the exceptional content and its masterful execution, has elevated the novel to a distinguished status. Rushdie's novel not only stands out for its content but also for its pioneering narrative approach, placing him at the pinnacle of Booker Prize winners over the past twenty-five years.

The following video of prof. Dilip Barad will help you to understand the various aspects of the novel "Midnight's Children"

                                            

Final Solutions

        In Mahesh Dattani's play "Final Solutions," the title carries a layered and thought-provoking significance. The play explores the themes of communalism, religious intolerance, and the potential for coexistence among people of different faiths. The title's reference to "Final Solutions" is likely intended to draw parallels with the historical context of the Holocaust's "Final Solution," while also presenting a contrast and alternative approach to resolving communal conflicts.

1.)What is the significance of the title "Final Solutions" and what is the final solution of the play?

        The play is set in a post-partition Indian city, where communal tensions and prejudices have deeply divided the community along religious lines. The characters are grappling with the legacy of violence, hatred, and mistrust that has been perpetuated over generations. Against this backdrop, the title "Final Solutions" suggests a search for a lasting resolution to the communal conflicts that have plagued society.

        The final solution in the context of the play is indeed about living peacefully with people of all religions. It embodies the idea that true progress can only be achieved when people of different faiths come together, acknowledge their shared humanity, and transcend the barriers of religion and prejudice. The characters in the play, through introspection and personal growth, begin to realize that the cycle of violence and hatred can only be broken by embracing tolerance, understanding, and respect for one another's beliefs.

        The significance of the title becomes even more poignant when viewed in contrast with the historical horrors associated with the term "Final Solution." Dattani seems to be proposing a positive and hopeful alternative, suggesting that the true final solution to societal divisions lies in fostering unity, harmony, and acceptance across religious boundaries.

        In essence, the title "Final Solutions" serves as a reflection on the potential for transformation and reconciliation in the face of deeply rooted communal tensions. It invites the audience to contemplate the power of dialogue, empathy, and coexistence in overcoming the legacy of violence and intolerance.

2.)What was the difference you observed in the movie and the play you performed?

The Movie: 

        "Final Solution," directed and written by Mahesh Dattani, offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities surrounding communalism and the human capacity for change. Set against a backdrop of interwoven lives deeply affected by religious tensions, the film delves into the aftermath of the 2002 Gujarat riots in India. With a cast led by Niharika Lyra Dutt, Vipin Sharma, and Srishti Shrivastava, the film uses their performances to bring to life a narrative that's both unsettling and hopeful.

        Dattani's direction presents a gripping account of the communal aftermath, focusing on the individual stories that mirror the collective turmoil of a society torn apart. The film's strength lies in its ability to showcase the effects of communal violence through nuanced character arcs. The ensemble cast delivers performances that lend depth and authenticity to the roles, eliciting empathy from the audience.

        Through evocative storytelling, "Final Solution" delves into the minds and hearts of its characters, uncovering their biases, fears, and struggles. The film doesn't shy away from exposing the darker aspects of human nature, but it also highlights the potential for change and redemption. Dattani's writing skillfully navigates the complexities of interwoven lives, illustrating how individual choices ripple through a community.

        The film's cinematography captures the stark contrast between the beauty of the Indian landscape and the ugliness of hatred and violence. This visual duality underscores the film's themes and provides a powerful backdrop for the narrative. The use of symbolism and visual metaphors enhances the film's impact, inviting the audience to contemplate the deeper layers of its message.

        "Final Solution" is a cinematic reflection on the aftermath of communal violence, urging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and consider the potential for reconciliation. Mahesh Dattani's direction and writing, coupled with the performances of the talented cast, create a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a call for introspection and change in the face of deep-rooted prejudices.

TOI Article deals with the various aspects of the movie.

Here is the link of my Facebook post on which you can find all the details about the movie screening and performance of the play as well.

The Play that we have performed:

        We have performed some selected scenes from the play "Final Solution" by Mahesh Dattani, under the guidance of Alpa Ponda Ma'am.  On August 10th, 2023, the Department of English at Department of English in Mk Bhavnagar University organized a performance of selected scenes from the play "Final Solution" by Mahesh Dattani, under the guidance of Alpa Ponda. During this performance, Scene 3 featured the following cast members:

- Pooja Bhuva  as Hardika

- Avani Jani  as Daksha

- Ghanshyam Katariya  as Javed

- Rajeshvariba Rana  as Bobby

- Gopi Dervaliya as Ramnik

Through this remarkable play, we gained insights into various drama techniques and learned how to manage stagecraft with limited resources and lighting.

3.) Share your thoughts on understanding drama through drama-based pedagogy or involvement in theatrical practices.

        Understanding drama through drama-based pedagogy and involvement in theatrical practices offers a unique and immersive way of engaging with the art form. It goes beyond theoretical analysis and encourages a holistic exploration of the various elements that contribute to the creation and experience of drama. Here are some thoughts on the benefits of understanding drama through these approaches:

1. Experiential Learning: Drama-based pedagogy and theatrical practices provide hands-on experiences that allow learners to actively engage with the material. This experiential learning approach enhances comprehension, as participants immerse themselves in the roles, emotions, and conflicts portrayed in the dramatic work. This kind of engagement can lead to a deeper understanding of character motivations, themes, and the emotional impact of the story.

2. Empathy and Perspective-Taking: Involvement in theatrical practices requires actors to step into the shoes of different characters, embodying their emotions, motivations, and worldviews. This process promotes empathy and perspective-taking, enabling participants to see the world from diverse viewpoints. This skill can extend beyond the theater and into real-life interactions, fostering a greater appreciation for the complexities of human experiences.

3. Physical and Emotional Awareness: Drama inherently involves physical movement and emotional expression. Through drama-based pedagogy or theater, individuals become more attuned to their body language, vocal intonation, and emotional nuances. This heightened awareness can enhance communication skills and emotional intelligence, making individuals more effective and expressive in various interpersonal and professional contexts.

4. Critical Thinking and Interpretation: Analyzing and interpreting a play or script requires critical thinking and attention to detail. Through the process of rehearsing scenes, understanding character motivations, and making interpretive choices, participants develop the ability to critically engage with the text. This skill set is transferable to other forms of literary analysis and interpretation.

5. Collaboration and Communication: Theater is a collaborative art form that requires actors, directors, designers, and crew members to work together seamlessly. Involvement in theatrical practices fosters teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability. Participants learn to listen, respond, and contribute to a shared creative vision, skills that are valuable in any collaborative setting.

6. Creative Expression and Confidence: Engaging with drama encourages creative expression and risk-taking. Participants learn to step outside their comfort zones, experiment with different interpretations, and make bold choices. This can lead to increased self-confidence and a willingness to explore new avenues of self-expression.

7.Cultural and Historical Awareness: Many plays are embedded in specific cultural and historical contexts. Through drama-based pedagogy or theatrical experiences, learners can gain insights into different time periods, societies, and cultural norms. This fosters a broader understanding of human history and the diverse ways in which stories are shaped by their cultural milieu.

        Incorporating drama-based pedagogy or participating in theatrical practices can transform the way individuals perceive and engage with drama. It offers a dynamic and multidimensional approach that encourages creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and collaboration—all of which contribute to a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and narratives.

4.) What kind of skills do you develop while undergoing the preparation process for a performance and how?

        Engaging in the preparation process for a performance, whether it's for theater, dance, music, or any other form of artistic expression, can lead to the development of a wide range of skills. These skills are not only relevant to the arts but can also be valuable in various aspects of life, including communication, teamwork, and self-confidence. Here are some skills you can develop while undergoing the preparation process for a performance:

1.Discipline and Time Management: Preparing for a performance requires consistent practice and dedication. Rehearsing regularly and managing your time effectively helps you develop discipline and organizational skills. This can be applied to other areas of life where setting goals and managing time are important.

2.Focus and Concentration: During rehearsals, you need to focus on your part, lines, choreography, or musical cues. This enhances your ability to concentrate on tasks, which can be useful in academic or professional settings.

3. Memory Skills: Learning lines, choreography, or musical scores improves your memory. The process of repetition and recall strengthens your memory capacity, which is valuable in day-to-day activities that involve retaining information.

4. Public Speaking and Confidence: Performing in front of an audience helps build confidence and public speaking skills. It teaches you how to project your voice, maintain eye contact, and engage with others effectively.

5. Body Language and Nonverbal Communication: Physical performances require awareness of body language and nonverbal communication. You learn how to convey emotions and messages through gestures, facial expressions, and movement, which is essential for effective communication.

6.Emotional Expression: Whether portraying a character or interpreting a musical piece, performances require tapping into emotions. This enhances your ability to understand and express emotions, which is valuable in personal relationships and communication.

7.Creativity and Interpretation: Preparing for a performance involves interpreting the material and making creative choices. This fosters imaginative thinking and the ability to approach challenges from different perspectives.

8. Teamwork and Collaboration: In group performances, you learn to work with others toward a shared goal. You develop teamwork, compromise, and communication skills as you collaborate to create a cohesive performance.

9. Resilience and Adaptability: Challenges may arise during rehearsals or performances. Developing resilience and adaptability helps you overcome obstacles and handle unexpected situations gracefully.

10. Feedback Acceptance: Receiving feedback from directors, peers, or mentors helps you grow. Learning how to accept constructive criticism and use it to improve is a valuable skill in personal and professional development.

11.Attention to Detail: Performing involves attention to small details like timing, cues, and transitions. This skill is transferable to tasks that require precision and accuracy.

12. Aesthetic Sensibility: Preparing for a performance cultivates an appreciation for aesthetics, harmony, and artistic expression. This sensitivity can enhance your ability to enjoy and understand various forms of art.

Overall, the preparation process for a performance is a comprehensive learning experience that hones both artistic and life skills. It challenges you to push your boundaries, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others—all of which contribute to personal growth and development.

IMAGINATION an Art of Seeing

As I reflect upon the Photography Workshop led by the renowned Wildlife Photographer and Filmmaker Mr. Kaushik Ghelani on August 17th, 2023, organized by the Department of English at MKBU, I'm excited to share my enriching experience. The workshop wasn't just about technical aspects; it delved deep into the realms of creativity and a holistic comprehension of the art of photography.

In a world where images flood our senses, the significance of photography as a timeless narrative tool remains unshaken. Each frame can encapsulate emotions, halt moments in their tracks, and transport observers to distant realms.

 'IMAGINATION: An Art of Seeing' 🌟

We embarked on a visual journey through the lens with the incredible photography workshop led by the talented Kaushik Ghelani. A huge shoutout to the spirited students of the Life Science Department who added their unique perspective to this immersive experience. 🌿📷

In the first session, Kaushik Sir unveiled the magic behind photography, inviting us to 'make our eyes a camera' and explore the world differently. In which I, Avani Jani  gave introduction of Kaushik Ghelani. 

From mastering the rule of thirds to finding beauty in negative space, we discovered the secrets to crafting stunning compositions. 🌄✨

Golden points led us to archaeological wonders, while the center focus rule encouraged us to harmonize subjects within a frame. The wild world of wildlife photography brought its own set of challenges, showing us how to capture animals in their vast habitats. 🦁📸

Symmetry and geometric shapes guided our visual stories along leading lines, drawing us into captivating depths of field. We embraced breaking the rules and seeking the extraordinary in the ordinary, as Kaushik Sir's insightful quotes resonated with the soul of each photograph. 🌀📐

📸 Celebrating the Art of Vision 🌟

✨ Immensely thankful for the chance to engage in the captivating 'IMAGINATION: an art of seeing' challenge led by the incredible Kaushik Ghelani sir. As I roamed the corners of MKBU campus, I chanced upon the enchanting burrtfiels, willingly gracing my lens with their presence, infusing a touch of enchantment into my frames. 🦋📷 Fortune favored me, propelling me to victory in the intense photography competition! 🥇🏆 Applauding the gifted life science student who secured second place, and a hearty cheer for the exceptional Drashti Joshi, claiming the third spot. A special nod to @aaranyakwild for their unwavering support and the motivating nudge. 🙌🎁 

As the sun set on this enlightening journey, Kaushik Sir took a look at our creations, sharing valuable insights and constructive feedback. Applause echoed as winners were crowned, their lenses capturing not just images but emotions. 🏆🎁

With hearts full of gratitude and creativity, we closed the chapter of 'IMAGINATION: An Art of Seeing' with a group photo that marked the culmination of our shared vision. 📸🌈

Derrida and Deconstruction

 Greetings! This blog post is my response to a task given by Dr. Dilip Barad. I will delve into my personal comprehension of deconstruction and provide a detailed explanation of the concept along with illustrative examples.

What is Deconstruction?

Deconstruction is a philosophical and critical theory that emerged in the late 20th century, primarily developed by the French philosopher Jacques Derrida. At its core, deconstruction challenges the traditional understanding of language, texts, and the act of interpretation. It posits that language is not a transparent and stable medium for communication but rather a complex and ambiguous system. Words and concepts do not have fixed meanings, and their interpretations can vary depending on the context and the reader's perspective.

One of the central ideas of deconstruction is the examination of binary oppositions present in texts, such as good/evil, presence/absence, male/female, and so on. Deconstruction seeks to question how these oppositions are constructed and how they shape our understanding of the text. It emphasizes that such binaries are not rigid or absolute, but rather fluid and contingent on the cultural, historical, and ideological context in which they are situated.

Deconstruction also challenges the tendency to assign hierarchical values to concepts within a text. It critiques logocentrism, which refers to the privileging of speech and writing over other forms of communication. In deconstruction, all elements within a text are considered to be interconnected and reliant on each other for meaning, rather than any one element being central or foundational.

Another significant aspect of deconstruction is its focus on the play of language. Language is not merely a tool for expressing pre-existing thoughts; rather, it actively shapes and influences how we think and perceive the world. Deconstruction highlights the creative and playful nature of language, allowing for the subversion of traditional meanings and challenging established norms.

Furthermore, deconstruction emphasizes the role of absence and the unspoken in shaping meaning. What is not explicitly stated in a text can be just as significant as what is present, as absences can reveal hidden assumptions, contradictions, and underlying ideologies.

It is important to recognize that deconstruction does not provide a definitive or absolute interpretation of a text. Instead, it encourages a continual process of questioning and critical engagement with the text. Different readers may interpret a text differently based on their individual perspectives and experiences, and there is no single "correct" interpretation.

The Blog of Jheel Barad will also provide you more detailed information.

A deconstructive reading of the sanitary pad brand "Whisper":

The brand "Whisper" is undoubtedly one of the well-known names in the Indian sanitary pad market. However, when we subject the name itself to deconstruction, certain doubts and questions arise regarding its implications in addressing women's menstrual issues. The use of the word "Whisper" seems to evoke a contradictory notion when discussing a subject that is typically private and often considered taboo. By choosing this particular name, the brand may inadvertently reinforce the societal tendency to keep menstruation hidden or "whispered" about, rather than fostering open conversations and breaking the silence surrounding this natural bodily process. The name "Whisper" may inadvertently perpetuate the age-old societal norm of treating menstruation as something to be discreetly dealt with, rather than embracing it as a normal part of a woman's life. Hence, a deconstructive analysis of the brand name "Whisper" brings to light the complexity of how language and branding can unintentionally reinforce and perpetuate cultural attitudes towards menstruation.

A deconstructive reading of the sanitary pad advertisement:

Menstruation is not solely about bleeding and constantly worrying about leakage; it encompasses more than that. It involves the daunting cramps and extreme mood swings that a woman has to endure for five to six days. However, sanitary pad ads tend to portray that wearing pads of a particular brand will empower you to conquer Mount Everest or even inspire you to go bungee jumping! Yet, in reality, life is not always so glamorous. Sometimes, it becomes incredibly difficult for a woman to even stand up and fetch a glass of water. The advertisement's grandiose claims seem to romanticize the experience of menstruation, overshadowing the real challenges and struggles that women face during this time. By creating a fantasy of empowerment through their product, these ads may inadvertently downplay the physical and emotional toll that menstruation takes on women. A deconstructive analysis of the sanitary pad advertisement reveals the underlying messages and representations that may not accurately reflect the genuine experiences of menstruating individuals.