A Call to Humanity: Demand Safety, Demand Justice, Demand Change

No Instagram stories, no casual conversations with colleagues, friends, family, or neighbors — nothing is going to bring a change. The suffering inflicted on women is not just a statistic — it is a searing reality that demands urgent action. What can I do, and what can you do, to stop this inhuman torture? How can we ensure that …

Anger: A Forbidden Emotion

One of the things our society often refuses to accept from women is their anger. There’s just no way you can be angry as a woman; it would be seen as sheer disrespect. And what’s even more frowned upon? A “young” woman being angry. When a young woman, who’s progressive and aware of her rights, …

Freedom’s Fabric

When are we really free? As women, when do we get our freedom? The other day, I went to the market right around the corner to buy a packet of milk. One little mistake I made was not changing into clothes deemed acceptable by society. It wasn’t the stares that bothered me — by now, …

Respect: A Footnote

In India, it is a tradition to touch the feet of elders as a sign of respect. On closer inspection, I find myself questioning this practice. When we join our hands in a namaste, we also express respect, so what additional value is gained from touching someone’s feet? Moreover, feet are often the dirtiest part …

Beyond the Parental Blueprint

We are not given a choice at birth to select parents who might be the most suitable or compatible with us. Instead, we are raised, taught, and molded to become their smaller versions. Phrases like, “Our kid should go to the best school/college, achieve the highest grades, and excel in everything,” reflect the high expectations …

Turning grudges into giggles

I recently had one of those lightbulb moments: our feelings can be downright hilarious. How many of us clutch onto grudges over trivial matters from years ago? We often form lasting opinions based on one tiny, insignificant incident. Think back – are you still sulking over a childhood friend who didn’t invite you to their …

Breaking Free: Challenging Traditional Expectations of a Married Woman

It has been nearly four months since my wedding, and I am already weary of the unsolicited advice on how I should dress, act, and conduct myself. Interestingly, no one has approached my husband with similar suggestions or expectations. Personally, I find the constant pressure to adorn myself with bangles and a mangalsutra to be …