This project was initiated to bust myths, remove the notion of gender roles at work
and the household. The idea was to be gently feminist in order to eradicate the
incorrect connotations that people have with the word. However, talking to people
and further research on the topic made me realize how supremely controversial and sensitive the issue is.
Primary research - A glimpse
Learnings from conversation with two women (44 yrs, 70 years), a watchman, mother of a 9 year old, 30 year old unmarried man a nine year old boy.
Difference in cultural upbringing of children and gender norms and practices:
In South India girls are considered “Laxmi” and are worshipped, in parts of Kutch younger girls aren't allowed to touch the feet of elders since they are held at a higher regard.
Boys in South India are taught to cook and wash dishes where in Gujarat the onus of the kitchen is solely in the woman's hands.
In Maharashtra families prefer a working daughter-in-law over a housewife, most other states preferred housewives.
The limitations to enter a kitchen or mandir is not questioned by a large number most women, while others rebel against these practices. Younger women have been observed to question these practices more, and feel like the barring is not required.
They often lie to other family members regarding their menstrual cycle so they can go to the mandir with them.
The 9 year old boy washes his own dishes, and helps in cleaning the house. He is being brought up by working and progressive parents
Kindly note: this study is not statistical. The notes are based on conversations and first hand experiences.
Contextual Research: Raising questions and understanding
Is gender based parenting unknowingly sexist?
Is the society aware of doing it?
What is societies attitude towards the topic of 'gender inequality'?
What is men's attitude towards the topic of gender inequality?
Aren't women tired of fighting for gender equality and explaining that its true?
What common practices lead to this feeling of bias?
How has society managed to make women accept this feeling of submissiveness?
What attitudinal change does society require to understand this?
What behavioral change does society require to understand this?
Commonly found issue areas among women
Lack of confidence
Dependency on a man
Lack of choice
Fear of failure
Idea of perfectionism
Self-sacrificial nature
Normalization of tabboos
