An Indian Perspective: From the bullock cart to the airplane
An Indian Perspective: From the bullock cart to the airplane
Writing an article for International Women's Day, I pause to wonder, for who the celebration really is? Maybe it's a subtle or not so subtle way of nudging men to recognize the worth of the female kind. But, then again, do we really need or care for that recognition? Perhaps, somewhere down the line it does help, especially if it improves the gender equation, and helps men feel less unnerved by their equally or more successful female counterparts. Certainly, it is a day women ought to reflect on who they are, what they do, and feel proud for being female.
To be honest, the term women empowerment' scares me. I mean, it brings to my mind a sword - club - mace (excuse the list of ancient weaponry) or should I transform that to the most sophisticated weapons and mobile phone yielding modern day Devi? But jokes apart, Women Empowerment is a very real issue and need in rural and backward states of India, overcast by ignorance and chauvinistic male attitudes.
The Art of Living has brought a visible difference to the lives of women the world over. In rural areas IAHV service initiatives such as bringing health and hygiene to villages and helping women get financially independent through home-based projects like tailoring, making incense sticks activities that are basically simple for an uneducated woman to pick up have played a tremendous role in lifting a woman's morale and re-instilling her lost confidence. In plush, urban locales, women suffer insecurities of a different kind, which are real enough for them to take a mental and physical toll. Here, The Art of Living courses through yoga, meditation, and wisdom have transformed the lives of many urban women, helping them strike a balance between inner peace and an outwardly life.
In ancient India, a woman was regarded as Devi', an inspiring figure of love, courage and universal motherhood, the one responsible for binding society through her compassionate, selflessly giving personality. She is the vital shakti (energy) essential for creation and hence draws utmost reverence from all. Her wrath when released on evil forces transforms her into the fierce image of Kali.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has said, "It is the woman who can inculcate values in the people around her. I see women as a source of introducing values to children, families and society. She is the glue that keeps everyone in the family intact." I think this holds equally true for the rural and urban woman alike. It makes me reminisce about the situation at home too.
Everyone - friends, family, even strangers flock to my mother for advice on a staggering range of topics. She has a practical solution for everyone. Her insights and intuition regarding how an individual's mind ticks is truly amazing. Being a writer and traveler helps, but doesn't entirely explain how she is always so on track. Obviously she has a knack for this sort of thing that's the explanation I give myself and leave the matter to rest. But looking around I realize, many women in many homes all over the globe play this sort of role: of being counselor, comforter and friend to a host of people of varying age groups. Women are high on Emotional Intelligence: that's what Dr. Goleman would tell you.
This is the day women get recognition for their good work and receive due acknowledgement for their valuable contribution to society. At least if not by others, this is the day women ought to give themselves and each other a pat on their backs and feel good. Just the other day, an old friend of mine was sharing how little credit she gets for being a mother. She is young, has given birth to twin boys, a tad overactive and demanding, single-handedly takes care of them and manages the house. She holds a PhD in entomology, is bright and creative, doesn't mind the switch from beetles to boys, but wishes her family and friends were more appreciative of her efforts and the moment to moment challenges she faces in her new role.
Given the switch in the roles women play today professionally, the word, woman' ought to read She-man'. This is the new brand; the type who wear the real pants, metaphorically speaking, both inside and outside home. Be it our first lady President of India Srimati Pratibha Devisingh Patil or famous top cop, Kiran Bedi here are leaders whose outstanding stories have paved the way for other lady leaders to be. Don't get me wrong, these women don't have to skimp on their feminine traits to be powerful. Successful women, do however, move beyond gender type casts. They leap over rules regarding what a woman ought or ought not to do.
Take the case of Anita Khushwaha from Bihar. Her story appeared in the Education Times section of The Times of India on the eve of Women's Day. In order to fund her education, in a locality where education for women is frowned upon, she entered the unknown and prior to her entry, male field of bee keeping and honey making. This is clearly a man's profession she observes as it entails, "bee stings, tenacity and a lot of grit." "A dangerous affair,' she admits, but she proceeded knowing full well nothing could stop her from pursuing her passion. Her success has churned enough cash, not only to fund her studies, but become a family business, "with a turnover of Rs. 2 3 lakhs."
This is the day stories and awards are passed to encourage, motivate and keep alive heartening trends among ladies. There are enough stories to make male heads turn too something for everyone to learn from.
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