Course Glossary

Literally ‘brotherhood’, this can refer to different units of kin- ship defined by patrilineal descent in different contexts. Among the Jats, it is generally an intra-caste group of clans, all of equal status.

Women of African descent who experience intersecting oppressions based on race and gender. Historically and presently, Black women face systemic racism, sexism, and economic disenfranchisement, while also being key figures in resistance movements worldwide.

Brahminical Patriarchy is a term coined by Uma Chakravarti in 1993. It refers to intertwined relations between sexism and casteism. It points out the unique system to Hindu society where patriarchal structures and caste hierarchy are deeply intertwined. This arises from the need for controlling women’s sexuality to maintain caste purity and patriarchy. This system strengthens male dominance, women’s subjugation in the context of caste purity.