We say India is rich in its cultural Heritage. But do we also say that respecting women had now become an action defined in the past? Okay, so what do you actually mean by respecting women? Is it just by saying a YES for everything they ask for or by is it in giving them an equal chance to compete with men in every sector? I feel the answer is a NO! When the Indian constitution has already defined that men and women have equal rights and can enjoy individual freedom, now tell me what actually makes sense when we say equality? Do you think women are allowed to enjoy their right?
So, I feel treating women with equality is not in providing her with every opportunity. Respecting women is in protecting her and keeping her from giving any harm. During the ancient times, women were not allowed to step out of their homes and were made to be bound to the kitchen. Women were only meant to take care of the house, raising up the children and serving the family. As time passed, this consideration has changed, but the concept of equality did not. We are still left behind the stereotypes.
“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women”, said Kofi Annan, the former Secretary General of the United Nations. Indeed this saying needs to be implemented in the present scenario. India is a democratic nation, where we have franchise voting. But do you think we have played equality fairly?
Women need to be seen as an individual first rather than as a female. She has to be given respect as a person and must be encouraged equally. It is opined that women are physically less strong when compared to men. And this argument has become a strong point to show inequality. But if we really go to the broader perspective of womanhood, the role she plays in the society is really laudable. And when an opportunity is given to women she can do wonders. So now, can we bring the concept of emotionally being strong and talk about calculating ‘being strong’?
When women are given equal opportunity, they are empowered and this leads to a progressive society. There is a common saying that behind every man’s success there is a Woman. But I personally feel that every man should become responsible for a woman’s success rather than trying to compete with her in every step, by talking about the stressing ‘physical abilities’. We should understand the need for women’s equal role in society. The main objective of the society must be in gaining equality for women alongside men putting aside the stereotypes. Because equality leads to empowerment and empowerment leads to progress.
So for that, we can try thinking like this, rather than suspecting her capacity, support her ability. Rather than criticizing her, cooperate with her. Rather than pressurizing her, protect her. Respect her as an individual first and not because she is a woman by birth. See her by her abilities, not her appearance. Treat her equally, not with physical difference but with so much affection.
Remember Dear All, empowering women does not mean the downfall of men. It means the acceptance of woman’s EQUALITY.
Divya Vallabhaneni
