A socially prejudiced India
For some it’s just about being comfortable, for others it’s a mark of mutiny or a dubious lack of manners. The youngsters we spoke to voiced their opinions on this social imbalance. What do you think?
If you’re a man, especially in India, you’ve probably been on the other side of the table. It’s a female, after all, who is at the receiving end of most social prejudices. Although many women in India, mainly in cities, have the ‘luxury’ of shunning veils and covers, some socially restrictive ideas continue to ‘protect’ them.
Yes, certain social norms exist around the world which lay down some ‘rightful’ social manners and courtesies, but when imposed, these norms become a social bane. And, if it’s on the way a girl is standing or sitting, you are most likely to have an existential crisis.
Don’t sit like this, don’t stand like that. You’re a girl!
Often in India, girls are asked to monitor the way they sit or stand, not just in public, but also indoors. A slight indication from a parent, a glare from the neighbour, a lesson from a school teacher would tell a girl to not part her legs while sitting or standing, making a particular body language, a socially awkward action.
We talked to young girls from across the country to have their take on this subject. Here is what they had to say:
While these girls voiced against this social prejudice, this is what some boys said:
…And while opinions are voiced out, thoughts shared, rebellions raised, certain mindsets refuse from re-thinking these prejudices. What do you think?
