The Bandit Queens

The use of alcohol—technically illegal in the Indian state in which the characters live—is ubiquitous throughout the small village, and the abuse of alcohol is inextricably linked to the abuse suffered by many of the women. When Geeta recalls the many instances of abuse meted out by Ramesh, in particular the breaking of her fingers, she also recounts his use of alcohol. She often blames Karem, who sells the illegal stuff out of his storefront. Geeta has learned that Samir is most abusive when he has been drinking, as well; more importantly, Samir steals money from Farah to pay off his liquor debts to Karem.

Alcohol is symbolic not only of abuse but also of male privilege and power. Geeta has never touched a drop of alcohol, though her husband regularly drank, while Saloni notes that her husband “allows” her to drink. When Geeta retrieves the cheap liquor in which Farah plans to put poison for her husband, she “did wonder what the fuss was about. Ramesh had chosen this over her. For the joys in this bag, Samir was willing to harm her” (50). Ultimately, this is the tragic