Abstract: This paper examines Daisy's character in R.K. Narayan's The Painter of Signs through the lens of Maslow's hierarchy of needs, exploring her pursuit of self-actualization within the constraints of post-colonial Indian society. Daisy's journey, marked by her dedication to family planning and rejection of traditional gender roles, demonstrates a complex negotiation between individual agency and societal expectations. The analysis considers Daisy's complex relationships, her idealism, and the societal constraints she faces, highlighting the interplay between individual agency and cultural norms. While Daisy embodies many aspects of self-actualization, her journey is also marked by internal conflicts and the challenges of navigating a patriarchal society. Daisy's idealism and her pursuit of meaningful work, while aligning with self-actualization principles, embody the evolving role of modern Indian women, revealing both the potential for self-realization and the persistent challenges posed by patriarchal norms in a rapidly changing world. By examining Daisy's struggles and triumphs, the paper offers insights into the evolving role of women in modern India and the universal human desire for self-actualization. Through a Maslowian framework, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of Narayan’s portrayal of modern Indian womanhood and the universal quest for self-actualization.
Keywords:self-actualization, Hierarchy of Needs, societal expectations, societal constraints, individual agency, growth.