“I call myself a feminist. Isn’t that what you call someone who fights for women’s rights?” by Dalai Lama. The Tibetan leader has defined a feminist correctly. A feminist is a person who fights for women’s rights. Whereas, feminism means advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of equality of sexes. The concept of feminism emerged in India during the mid-eighteenth century when European colonist voiced out against the practice of ’Sati’. Gradually with active participation and efforts of revolutionary leaders women rights occupied an important position in the welfare of the society.
Independence of India brought along many ideas pertaining to change in the lifestyle of women. The female class was allowed to join the labour force with the efforts that, they should be treated equally and are provided with fair wages. Now, feminism in the 21st century is not just about equal rights for men and women but also to have a right to decide their course of lives in terms of lifestyle, careers choices and relationships. The concept of feminism is still not clear and there exists a lot of confusion and division about what feminism is. When asked ‘Are you a feminist?’ numerous people will be unclear about the answer. Whereas, the answer should be a loud and clear ‘YES’. Feminism is considered as a concept which involves violence, anger, riots and disgruntle. In a male-dominated society like India, a lot of awareness and efforts still remain to be employed.This is demonstrated by the negative feedback and outright threats women receive when they talk about feminist issues in public. Leadership positions should be allocated on the basis of merits demonstrated by a candidate and not favouritism or male predominance.
In fact, no government rules and regulations of minimum reservation for women should be involved.Lastly, feminism is not just about women rights it’s about equal rights. It isn’t about women being asked to be placed in the front role but also for men to reach their full potential. Liberated from the straightjacket of rigid and exclusive gender roles, men would also have more options, whether it’s being a stay-at-home dad for a while, or trying out a hobby seen as ‘feminine’.Interchanging of roles ie men taking care of household activities and women going out to work is a new concept emerging and should be accepted without scepticism.One should be earnestly allowed to live life in a way in which one desires. I believe that world needs a lot of love and each human being supporting each other is the only way to achieve collective wisdom.A lot of work still needs to be done and past successes do not necessarily guarantee future gains. The achievement of the path lies in hands of each and every person. So remember, whenever next time you are asked if you are a feminist, reply positively and also prove it in your actions. Hope to see you next time. Bye 🙂
Vario Dings 