Feminism in India

What do women want?

Equality between sexes, crush societal patriarchy, equal pay!

But what do women in India want?

India has been acknowledging feminist beliefs since the Vedic times but unfortunately, the modern feminist still faces challenges to put forth their voice. Pre-conceived notions about how a woman should sit, eat behave are still followed in India. It has happened to me, educated, modern city girl! I can only imagine for those who are not as privileged as I am. What do they go through? Do they even know that they have a voice?

Ever wondered how millennials just naturally develop feminist beliefs, is it a fad, some kind of trend? Modern millennials have experienced some level of patriarchy in their private spheres, the power of ‘Being A Man”. Maybe they want to change things, maybe they don’t want to be their mothers! Gen Z, however, is embracing a new set of challenges, breaking silence on menstruation taboos, eating disorders, and mental health.

Feminism is an ongoing battle, it is an ongoing voice, there are going to be a new set of challenges every generation. But ultimately what Indian women want is FREEDOM.

It is thus important to educate girls about their right to choose. It is also equally important to educate boys because feminism is not women wanting to be superior to men. This battle cannot be fought just by women in the Indian society, men are the key to bring about a shift in change of thoughts.

To conclude,

Every woman will have a different understanding of feminism as she grows but it is also important to understand that the essence of feminist beliefs is not just based on a superficial understanding or being anti-men. It is knowing that women do have the freedom to choose and they don’t have to follow a parti pris approach to their life choices.