“Beta ji, you
are married now, wear something more traditional like suits and sarees.”
Nodding with a dissented face, I accelerated towards the staircase. “A 7-inch
gap at waist, between her blouse and saree? Hats off to you Auntyji”, I
thought. How can the culture change drastically if I replace this with a short top and a pair of jeans?
The fatigue
was taking a toll on me. After a hectic day at work and 3 hours of travel, all
I wanted was my bed, my blanket and some peaceful time. I rushed towards the
doorbell but (sigh) it seemed God wanted me to absorb some more. Here comes
some more gyan from the pious guru (our chatter box neighbor), Mrs. Gupta!
“Hello Beta ji, how are you? I was waiting to meet you. You look so pale. Must
be a lot of work at office. I was talking to your family. Nowadays it is
so difficult to plan a baby with this stressful life. But betaji, I must tell
you, it is already 2 years since your marriage, slow down your career and focus
on family.” Pheww….
Why can’t
people leave the decision making to the couple? We live in a different era.
There are people who happily settle down after marriage, but also there are people
who have other ambitions and other priorities.
I am 27 and
married. Though I don’t have any problem managing the domestic responsibilities
(which is equally shared with my husband), I love my job too. I want to grow
and excel in my career. I am independent and capable of making my own
decisions. I am profound with current affairs. While having lunch or tea at
office, I like to throw some serious discussion topics to my colleagues
(politics, economics, people empowerment, business..) rather than circling the
conversation on who’s who and did what
to whom. I politely refuse when men offer me their seats in bus and metro. I
manage the finances. I believe there is far more a woman can do than running
errands and raising kids.
Gender
Equality, Women Empowerment – all these terms will remain as airy fillers
unless the seeds of change are sown in the minds of people. I look forward to
see the changed world where women independently make decisions and have equal
rights in community, society and workplaces.
How to get
there? Be the change you want to see- very rightly said. Well… first, break all
the rules. Change yourself. Draw a sheath around yourself that protects you
from all the primitive thoughts. Feel happy, feel confident and feel alive.
Have a passion? Chase it.
At home: Education starts at home. Teach your
kids/family how the women should be treated. It is not only your responsibility
to look after the family. Managing a house brings equal responsibility on a
couple’s shoulders. Make your daughters independent. Educate your sons on what
they should expect in their life partner. Family who respect women at home,
respect women outside as well.
At work: Companies are striving hard to make
their culture women friendly. Therefore, let us also make the best use of this
opportunity and position us as responsible employees who are equally capable as
men. Work hard. Work smart. Figure out the best way you can manage house and
reduce the no. of “work from home” days or unnecessary leaves. Take challenges,
learn and take projects that involves learning and growth. The onus is equally
upon us to come out of the stereotype “I am a woman” shell and demonstrate
leadership.
You got a dream? You got
to protect it. – The
Pursuit of happyness
Yes, I dream
to see women more independent and confident. I am game for this change. Are you?
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