Patriarchal Constraints in Everyday Lives: Gender Roles, Matrilineality, and the Status of Contemporary Khasi Women

The Khasi tribe from Meghalaya in northeast India practices a matrilineal system, which is believed to be more egalitarian than patrilineal systems. The women of the Khasi tribe are often regarded as having a higher status than other women in India. However, despite belonging to a matrilineal society, Khasi women still face challenges in their social lives stemming from patriarchal constructs. This qualitative study examines the social status and subsequent challenges faced by Khasi women in contemporary India. Using in-depth interviews and observations of thirty urban and rural Khasi women in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya, the study reveals how Khasi women experience contradictory and challenging roles, relationship dynamics, and gender stereotypes in their lives. More studies should examine the problems and challenges that Khasi women face in their society despite the benefits of a matrilineal system.