It had been a long while since I conducted a #LetsTalkPeriod outreach workshop. Life, work and time had quietly slipped by, but now it felt right to begin again.

Over the years, I have tried to collaborate with one of the SABERA awardees for these sessions. In the past, it was the girls at the Noida Deaf Society where, thanks to StoneSoup’s collaboration, we distributed cloth pads. Another year, it was the women sanitary workers at PVR Nest — the resilient women maintaining public toilets while slowly transforming those very spaces into learning centres.

This year, the journey took me to Bulandshahr.

I was picked up from Noida by Aryah, founder of iVillage A Family — a social enterprise empowering rural women through livelihood initiatives like stitching cloth bags, rag dolls and Indian flags. We travelled in her mother’s electric Volvo, beginning what would become far more than just a workshop commute.

Somewhere along the way, we stopped at Anupshahr, where Aryah’s parental home is located, to switch cars and grab a quick breakfast. The heat was relentless — the hottest day of the season — and I was honestly wondering whether I would be able to do justice to a two-hour menstrual health session while still recovering from a prolonged cough.

But rural India has a way of healing you gently.

Soon enough, I was handed warm water with Amrit Dhara to sip through the day. Somehow, that simple act of care carried me through the workshop and beyond.

And what a workshop it turned out to be.

Despite the oppressive heat, women arrived curious, open and willing to engage in conversations around periods — conversations many of them had never had openly before. Questions flowed. Myths surfaced. Laughter broke barriers. Stories emerged.

One by one, almost every woman chose to take home a menstrual cup.

The cups distributed were medical-grade silicone cups that can last nearly a decade, significantly reducing the recurring expense and waste associated with disposable pads. We intentionally asked each participant to contribute a token amount of Rs 20 for a cup worth nearly Rs 900. Not because the women could “pay” for it, but because ownership matters. When something is valued, it is often cared for better. The small amount collected was later pooled together into a refreshments kitty for the women themselves.

The most moving moment came unexpectedly.

A seemingly quiet middle-aged woman stood up and spoke spontaneously:

“Thank you for doing this. Humari soch badalne ke liye, taki hum nayee peedhi ko sahi gyaan de sakein.”

(“Thank you for helping change our mindset, so we can give the right knowledge to the next generation.”)

And there it was — the real purpose of #LetsTalkPeriod. Not just menstrual products. Not just workshops. But intergenerational change.

Before leaving, I was introduced to the parent organisation behind the Pardada Pardadi School — an extraordinary initiative working with some of the poorest girls in Bulandshahr. What I witnessed there left a deep impression on me.

The girls are not merely educated academically; they are nurtured holistically through opportunities in sports, music, art and leadership. Each girl has a savings account where Rs 10 is deposited for every day of attendance, creating a corpus by the time she graduates — money that can support higher education or vocational aspirations.

I met four young girls preparing to leave for Japan the very next day on scholarships supported by Dentsu. Another girl proudly represented her hometown at a national sporting platform. Outside stood rows of pink bicycles gifted to girls who travel 20–30 kilometres daily just to attend school.

It was impossible not to feel hopeful.

The man behind this entire initiative

On the drive back, Aryah took me through winding village roads lined with endless fields to visit her ancestral home. The experience felt straight out of Swades — slow, rooted and deeply Indian. The heritage property, lovingly maintained in its original structure by Mr Sam Singh, the NRI who moved back to his roots to start this whole movemnet. It stands as a reminder that development and tradition can coexist beautifully when driven by intent and compassion.

By the time we drove back home, exhausted yet content, I realised the day had become much bigger than a workshop.

It became a reminder that change happens through journeys — through conversations, through women supporting women, through communities daring to rethink inherited silences.

And perhaps that is where every meaningful revolution begins — with a conversation.

#LetsTalkPeriod is a flagship initiative of Woman Endangered, born in the aftermath of the Nirbhaya case. The initiative continues to be wholly funded and supported by Suparnaa Chadda and her friends, who believe deeply in creating safe spaces for menstrual awareness, dignity and agency.

The post Breaking period stigma in Rural India appeared first on Woman Endangered.

A Walk Through the Centre

Before the session, I was taken on a walk through the centre. It was heartening to witness the diligent record-keeping ensuring the maintenance of cleanliness—a crucial aspect, considering the community it serves does not have toilets at home. These spaces are more than just sanitation facilities; they offer a safe environment, encourage hygiene, and even provide areas for breastfeeding mothers.

With the available open space, the centre has expanded to offer digital literacy, stitching, and beauty courses for the women of the Jahangirpuri and Naraina communities. This initiative not only empowers women economically but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility within the community.

The Power of One now Sahas Bharat Read More here>>

The #LetsTalkPeriod Session

The session welcomed 30 incredible women from across Delhi—all of them managing these public toilets turned safe spaces. Over 90 minutes, we dived deep into menstrual health, aiming to educate, dispel myths, and introduce sustainable solutions. Using presentations, videos, and a silicone reproductive model, we discussed:

• The anatomy of menstruation – understanding flow, cycles, and the natural processes of the body.
• Common menstrual ailments and remedies – equipping them with knowledge to manage their health better.
• Myth-busting and cultural alignment – referencing temples, cultural events, and festivals across India that celebrate menstruation, reaffirming its sacredness.
• Introduction to the menstrual cup – explaining its benefits, usage, and maintenance as a sustainable alternative to pads and tampons.

Each participant was gifted a menstrual cup, making them ambassadors of sustainable menstruation in their communities. The enthusiasm was overwhelming, with the women eager to take this knowledge forward and advocate for better menstrual health in their circles.

A Ripple Effect of Change

The feedback was deeply moving. One of the women said, “Thank you for gifting us life.” Many of them are first-time earners, and their confidence is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and economic independence. I was told that the centre sees a daily footfall of 500 women and children, making it a crucial hub for driving change at the grassroots level.

As we posed in front of the toilet—something one wouldn’t traditionally think of as a celebratory moment—it struck me how spaces evolve when they are filled with purpose, dignity, and empowerment.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. With 30 women now equipped with knowledge and sustainable solutions, the impact will extend far beyond this single session. The commitment to menstrual health, sustainability, and community-driven change continues, and I am grateful to be part of this journey.

To all the changemakers—thank you. Let’s keep the conversation going.

About the Session Conductor – Simply Suparnaa

This session was conducted by Simply Suparnaa, a passionate advocate for gender sensitivity, sustainable menstrual hygiene, and social impact. She is the founder of the #LetsTalkPeriod movement, working to normalize conversations around menstrual health and empower communities with sustainable solutions.

Beyond menstrual health advocacy, she is also the founder-curator of SABERA (Social and Business Enterprise Responsible Awards & Summit), which recognizes impactful social and business initiatives across India. With over two decades of experience in media, advertising, and cause-driven initiatives, she continues to drive awareness and action towards women’s health, sanitation, and community empowerment.

The post #Let’sTalkPeriod: A Session on Sustainable Menstrual Hygiene at Garima Grih appeared first on Woman Endangered.

In response, I opened a window to explore the myriad career paths available to them, emphasizing three fundamental conditions: interest, the ability to work hard, and a commitment to continuous learning. I made it clear that as long as these three aspects are in alignment, no dream is out of reach. It was heartening to see their faces light up as they realized the vast array of opportunities awaiting them.

But beyond individual success, I also planted a seed of thought about the importance of spreading goodness and contributing to the welfare of a larger community. I emphasized that true fulfillment in life comes not just from personal achievements but from making a positive impact on society.

However, new challenges have arisen, such as the mounting expenditures of rebuilding the school as directed by disaster management authorities. Despite efforts to keep up with financial obligations, including the 7th pay commission fees, SSMI faces a lack of support from the local corporation. Sunita Ji highlighted the disparity between cities like Mumbai, where NGO-run schools enjoy greater autonomy in managing expenses, and Delhi, where MCD-aided schools struggle to meet their needs.

SSMI itself is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation in the face of challenges. Recognized by the SABERA awards, the institution, under the leadership of Sunita Ji, has thrived despite numerous obstacles. Sunita Ji’s visionary leadership has kept the school financially stable through innovative solutions, such as empowering local women to revive indigenous crafts and create products. One notable success story is the case study of Hindbags, a project initiated by an intern from France, aimed at making SSMI financially stable by utilizing indigenous crafts. What started as an idea on paper has blossomed into a successful venture, with Hindbags now importing up to 80,000 bags monthly. Sunita Ji further empowered self-help groups to directly import these bags, ensuring sustainable income for the community employing over 100 women.

Moreover, the limitations of CSR mandates pose further hurdles. Construction projects, crucial for the school’s infrastructure, are not covered under CSR, creating additional financial strain. This disjunction between well-meaning policies and on-the-ground realities underscores the need for reforms in education and CSR frameworks to better support institutions like SSMI.

My visit to SSMI left me inspired by the resilience of its students and staff and reminded me of the transformative power of education. It reinforced the importance of not only nurturing individual dreams but also fostering a spirit of community and service. Sunita Ji and her team exemplify the spirit of innovation and determination, demonstrating that with perseverance and ingenuity, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.

The post From Dreams to Reality: How SSMI Inspire Students & Women Towards Leadership appeared first on Woman Endangered.

The world faces many challenges, but amidst the adversity, incredible women rise as beacons of hope. The SABERA Awards (Social and Business Enterprise Responsible Awards) recognize these changemakers for their outstanding contributions to society. As nominations open for SABERA 2024, let’s celebrate some of the remarkable women honored in recent years:

1. Brinda Poornpragna: Championing Education Equity

Brinda PoornPragna, CEO of eVidyaloka Trust and a SABERA Awardee, understands the critical role education plays in empowering underprivileged communities. Her social enterprise leverages technology to bridge the gap in quality education, making it accessible even in remote areas.

2. Sugandha Sukrutaraj: Empowering Adults with Disabilities

Sugandha Sukrutaraj, founder of AMBA and a SABERA Awardee and Ashoka Fellow, is an inspiration. With 19 years of experience, she’s crafted a sustainable livelihood solution for adults with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities. Her program focuses on visual data entry and peer training, fostering mainstream inclusion and empowering individuals.

Read about more women changemakers awarded by SABERA over the years here >>

3. Jyotika Dhawan: A Journey of Inclusion

Jyotika Dhawan’s story is one of dedication and growth. A 2023 SABERA awardee, Jyotika’s passion for inclusion has been a constant force. From receiving recognition in 2018 to winning the award in 2023, she’s consistently pushed boundaries for diversity and equity in workplaces.

4. Iram Maimuna: Superhero for our Planet

Iram Maimuna, Managing Director of E-Waste Social Pvt Ltd., is a champion for environmental responsibility. Her company connects businesses with responsible e-waste recyclers, tackling the growing problem of electronic waste and its impact on our planet.

5. Chandini Di: Voice of the Streets

Chandini Di’s story is one of resilience. Once a young girl living on the streets, she overcame poverty and hardship to become a powerful voice for underprivileged children. Through her NGO Voice of Slum, Chandini Di empowers street children and works towards a brighter future for her community.

6. Dr. Sudha Kidao: Shaping Educational Landscapes

Dr. Sudha Kidao, a SABERA Awardee and Honorary Managing Trustee of the Foundation For Excellence India Trust has dedicated over a decade to shaping education in India. Through her service as both a donor and volunteer, she’s played a crucial role in improving educational opportunities across the country.

7. Meera Shenoy: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Meera Shenoy, a SABERA Awardee and the founder of youth4jobs (Y4J), is a recognized changemaker. Y4J has become the largest organization in South Asia mainstreaming youth with disabilities in education and employment. Through her work, Meera has impacted millions of lives, empowering youth with disabilities and their families.

These are just a few examples of the extraordinary women honored by SABERA. Their dedication, passion, and resilience inspire us all. By supporting their missions and spreading awareness about their work, we can join hands in creating a lasting impact and building a brighter future.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories of SABERA awardees!

Do you know a woman making a significant difference in the world? Encourage them to apply for the SABERA Awards and help us celebrate their achievements. Let’s continue to shine a light on the incredible women creating a more just and equitable world.

Nominate a Changemaker for SABERA 2024

The post Extraordinary Women Making a Difference appeared first on Woman Endangered.

1) Ruma Roka – Noida Deaf Society

Ruma Roka is a force of nature, changing the lives of deaf children who are often severely marginalized. Her journey began with just five students, but through the Noida Deaf Society, she has impacted over 54,000 lives to date. Remarkably, over 70% of her trainers and managers are deaf themselves. Ruma introduced computer literacy using Indian Sign Language, enabling the youth to secure successful employment across various sectors. To support Ruma’s mission and learn more about her work, visit www.noidadeafsociety.org

2) Robin Chaurasiya – Kranti

Robin Chaurasiya is the founder of Kranti, a nonprofit organization working with girls born and raised in Kamathipura, Asia’s infamous red-light district. Kranti’s beneficiaries include daughters of sex workers, trafficking survivors, and young women with immense potential. Thanks to Robin’s efforts, these ‘Krantikaris’ are now studying at some of the world’s best universities. However, the question remains: can our communities truly accept them for who they are? To support Kranti, visit https://www.kranti-india.org/

3) Sunita Bhasin – SSMI

Sunita Bhasin is a dedicated educationist, environmentalist, and advocate for reviving indigenous handicrafts. She works tirelessly to create sustainable livelihood models for marginalized women in Delhi. Sunita’s commitment to empowering women was evident during a menstrual hygiene session she conducted with girls entering puberty. To connect or contribute to SSMI, visit ssmi.in or www.room100-ssmi.com.

4) Dr. Kiran Modi – Udayan Care

Dr. Kiran Modi’s journey started with a single house in Delhi, ignited by a personal tragedy. Today, through Udayan Care, she has rehabilitated and empowered countless children whom society often neglects. Udayan Care provides education and vocational training, nurturing young individuals not only in material needs but also in emotional well-being. If you wish to support, volunteer, or align with Udayan Care’s vision, please visit https://udayancare.org/

5) Monica Vohra – Leukemia Crusaders

Monica Vohra, a SABERA Awardee, fought and won her son’s battle with leukemia. Now, she’s on a crusade to ensure underprivileged kids receive timely and effective treatment for blood cancer. To support Monica and Leukemia Crusaders, click here: https://www.leukemiacrusaders.org/

6) Ruby Ahluwalia – Sanjeevani – Life Beyond Cancer

From survivor to messiah for cancer patients and their families, Ruby Ahluwalia’s life took a profound turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. She has since dedicated her life to helping marginalized families afflicted with the disease, offering counseling, nutrition, and unwavering support throughout their journey. Contribute to their work through the link below: https://www.sanjeevani-lifebeyondcancer.com

7) Rachna Prasad – Chiranthana

SABERA Awardee Rachna Prasad has dedicated her life to rehabilitating, educating, and creating employment opportunities for individuals with special needs, including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, and dyslexia. Rachna’s journey began after her own daughter was diagnosed with special needs. To know more and support Chiranthana, log in here: https://chiranthana.in/shop/

These extraordinary women, honored with the SABERA Awards, are making significant strides in creating a better and more inclusive world. Their dedication, passion, and resilience serve as an inspiration to us all. By supporting their missions and spreading awareness about their work, we can join hands in making a lasting impact and creating a brighter future for those in need.

The post Celebrating Women of Impact: SABERA Awardees Transforming Lives appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Women turn brand ambassadors of sustainable menstrual products taking the multi-billion dollar industry of disposables head on.

Listen to various stakeholders from the social venture investors, nonprofit sector, social entrepreneurs, and medical fraternity join hands in the spirit of collaboration debunking misinformation and talking of facts and personal experiences on sustainable menstruation in particular and Periods at large! Busting misinformation in pursuit of Ms information 🙂

The Simply Suparnaa © Media Network recently hosted an insightful panel discussion on the topic of sustainable menstrual products and their impact on the billion-dollar industry dominated by disposable products. The panelists, who brought a wealth of experience and expertise, shared their insights and experiences on the subject.

Dr. Meenakshi Bharat, a gynecologist with 35 years of experience specializing in fertility work, has made it her mission to advocate for sustainable living. In addition to her medical practice, she actively promotes waste reduction, composting, and the use of reusable products. Dr. Bharat’s commitment to sustainability even extends to organizing waste-free weddings for her children. Her valuable insights on the health benefits of sustainable menstrual products added great value to the discussion.

Sashi Rajamani, a founding member of Social Venture Partners in Bengaluru, brought two decades of corporate experience to her work in promoting social impact ventures and foundations. As the managing trustee of the Konrai Foundation, Rajamani collaborates with over 20 NGOs, striving to create a platform for promoting performing arts while addressing social and environmental challenges, including sustainable menstruation.

Dr Shanthi Thummala, initially trained as a dentist, took a bold step by leaving her job to lead the Swachh Siddipet campaign in collaboration with the Telangana government. Her expertise in waste management proved invaluable in streamlining waste segregation, collection, transportation, and disposal. Driven by her passion for environmental conservation, Dr. Thummala also spearheaded the sustainable menstruation campaign, aiming to address the environmental damage caused by sanitary waste in Siddipet.

Malini Parmar, with a strong background in the global IT industry and an education from prestigious institutions such as IIM-Kolkata and Delhi College of Engineering, decided to leverage her experience for social change. Co-founding Stonesoup, a social enterprise dedicated to sustainable living, Parmar offers a range of products that contribute to a greener future. As a single parent and advocate for sustainable menstruation, Parmar shared her personal experiences and insights during the panel discussion.

The panelists brought diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, creating a dynamic discussion that touched upon the health benefits of sustainable menstrual products, the environmental impact of disposable alternatives, and the empowerment of women as brand ambassadors for sustainable options. By challenging the status quo, these panelists are leading the way toward a future where women’s health and the well-being of the planet are prioritized.

You will also love reading about my experience with gifting cloth pads to girls with hearing impairment in Noida.

Psst : If you’re doing GOOD the SABERA jury is looking for your work to acknowledge you.

The post 17 K Crore industry of disposables- Do sustainable menstrual products stand a chance? appeared first on Woman Endangered.

As an added bonus WE are offering a GIVE AWAY on a medical-grade silicone menstrual cup to 2 individuals who share their views on periods on Simply Suparnaa’s Instagram. The GIVE AWAY is in collaboration with Stonesoup.in Why are WE doing this? Keep reading

Challenging Misinformation

Despite advancements in urban settings, misinformation about feminine hygiene products still prevails. Commercial pads and tampons, often laden with plastics and chemicals, pose risks to both our bodies and the planet. It’s time to dispel these myths and explore better alternatives.

The Wisdom of Tradition

In India, where cotton is abundant, we have a rich heritage of using cotton sarees to manage menstruation. This age-old practice not only ensures comfort but also aligns with sustainability. Cotton sarees can be easily disposed of and naturally decompose over time, minimizing environmental impact.

Prioritizing Women’s Health

Just as we choose organic, chemical-free foods for our well-being, it’s crucial to extend the same principle to feminine hygiene. Commercial sanitary pads and tampons can introduce harmful substances into our bodies. Tampons, in particular, have been associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome. By opting for natural and organic options, we can safeguard our health.

Breaking the Stigma

Periods have long been shrouded in silence and shame. It’s time to change that. Let’s foster open conversations about menstrual health, eradicating taboos, and empowering women to embrace their bodies fully. By talking openly about periods, we can create a supportive environment that encourages education and understanding.

Social Media Giveaway

To further promote open discussions on periods, we are excited to announce a social media giveaway! Share your views and experiences on periods using the hashtag #LetsTalkPeriod, and you could win a medical-grade silicone cup—a sustainable and comfortable alternative for menstrual care. Join the movement and help us spread awareness.

Instastories

maanasadevi12
It’s part of every woman’s life. Proper care and personal hygiene are very important during those days. Young girls they should have awareness about their first period ie what are periods what we do during periods why we get periods and how to face them. Mainly teenage girls must know and have awareness because when they see the first period they get shocked and fearful because it’s blood and the girl feels very weak. How to take proper care during periods also needs to be known some classes should be taken. girls and women should know some home remedies, period care essentials like menstrual cups, and how to handle cramps. And family mother, father, sis or bro, boyfriend or husband should be supportive not treating them like untouchables. Boys mothers should also teach boys what are periods and what females grow through during that time so that boys can understand that pain and support them rather than seeing it as something unknown.

riospamzzzz

Back in school, a guy in my class pulled out a sanitary napkin from a friend’s bag. He stood on the desk holding it high up for everyone to see. He went on shouting “XXX is on her period!! xxx is on her period” and threw it on someone.
Everyone went from yewww to yuckk, running away as if it was an asteroid.
When we girls felt deeply hurt and embarrassed, the girl who was on her period spoke loud and clear.
Yes, I am on my period. So was your mother and so is your sister. If not for it, you wouldn’t be here. If you have a problem with it, then you probably are mentally sick. Get yourself checked.
The class learned a lesson. It’s not the period that’s disgusting, but the person who feels that way.

Keep sharing your views and stand a chance to win the medical-grade silicone cups from Stonesoup. Winners will be announced on 23rd May 2023.

WE are passionate about debunking misinformation, promoting sustainable menstrual practices, and empowering women to make informed choices. By embracing traditional wisdom, advocating for chemical-free options, and encouraging open conversations, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future. Let’s break the silence, #LetsTalkPeriod!

The post Let’s Talk Period: Empowering Women through Sustainable Menstrual Practices appeared first on Woman Endangered.

We were on the last leg of the sessions that needed to be completed on combating violence against women across India. Telangana and Karnataka were done in quick succession in November 2022 but one last one was still left pending. The schedule was tight with SABERA 2022 around the corner and the impending exams of the JOSH TALKS student coordinator Vanshika. In addition to this, the state colleges were also on the verge of going for their winter break. There was a slim window available and Vanshika somehow managed to fix a session in Odisha (a state I had long wanted to visit). Almost overnight all concerned confirmations and logistics were organized. And on the morning of 15th December, we landed in Bhubaneswar to complete 12 states and the 20th session, on Standing up for what’s right across the youth of the country through different states.

The session was planned for the next day on the 16th, so we made the most of the day available when we landed. First, to visit the Konark or the Sun Temple and soon after to pay our obeisance to Lord Jagannath in Puri.

Did you know Odhisa was originally called Utkal* (as also mentioned in the national anthem)?

The next day, that is the 16th of December, we received an overwhelming reception on the college campus of the Einstein Academy of Technology and Management. The session to stand up for what’s right seemed to have reached a befitting finale! An outreach I strongly believe is a blessing from my Guru who empowers me with the energy to do so. I draw a lot of the content from the case learnings of Nirbhaya including the steps we documented with Chhaya Sharma to seek justice in case of sexual violence.

It was only after the session was complete that someone pointed out that it’s 10 years today on 16th December since Nirbhaya! Imagine our surprise and the dots connecting without us being aware. While we may forget but when Devi Ma guides everything just seems to fall in place perfectly.

We’ve come a full circle. I was guided by my Guru to channel constructively the seething anger and helplessness I felt when the Nirbhaya case unfolded. And indeed it has been a befitting finale with the visit to Jagannath Puri and Konark sun temple thrown in for good measure 🙂

*UTKAL = UTKRISHT + KALA. Or the most beautiful art which reflects through not just the land’s historical monuments but is alive and throbbing in the cultural expressions from weaving, painting, sculpting, or even silver filigree work and more.

Here are some quick tips on both the places we visited.

You must hire a guide at the sun temple to understand the historical significance and architectural marvel at Konark. It is believed that the main deity was suspended in mid-air through heavy-duty magnets from all sides. The magnets were so strong that they disrupted the navigation of the invader’s ship’s route. The first thing the Portuguese did on discovering the temple was to dislodge these magnets, which resulted in the collapse of the deity and the main Garb Griha of the temple.

At Jagannath Puri, no bags or phones are allowed so ensure to keep them safe either in the vehicle or one of the shops outside. If you manage to go around the evening you can witness the change of the Dhwaja atop the temple tied to the Chakra at 6 pm. The Chakra itself when viewed from any side of the temple will always seem to be facing the onlooker. Be wary of the Pandits who promise you prasad or a piece of the Dhwaja, they are just out to make a quick buck on the devout’s faith. You can partake in Prasad of khichadi, daal, sabzi, and sweet sitting at the Anna GrIh at a nominal cost of Re 100.

If you would like to have us conduct this 90-minute session in your college or company just drop us a mail with the details of the institution and the preferred dates at suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com.

Links for further study

To read about the Kerala Chapter click here>>

To read about the Hyderabad Chapter click here>>

To read about the Karnataka Chapter click here>>

To read about the Vizag Chapter click here>>

To read about the Chennai, Chapter click here>>

To read about the Prayagraj Chapter click here>>

To read about Assam Chapter click here>>

To read about Kolkatta Chapter click here>>

To read about the Kanpur Chapter click here>>

To read about the Purnea Bihar Chapter click here>>

To read about the Pune experience click here>>

To know more about the online session experience read here >>

PS: if you stand for what is right – team SABERA (Annual Awards and Summit by the  Simply Suparnaa © Media Network) you must watch the annual event recognizing the GOOD work across India.

The post Odisha I 12th state I Combating Violence against women appeared first on Woman Endangered.

One would imagine regions predominantly matrilineal in social construct to be safer for women. This myth was broken. Both in Assam and now here in Kerala. We were apprised of an incident in the neighboring school where young girls on a school picnic, complained to the school authorities of being molested by the bus driver/helpers who were inebriated. The school authorities in turn accused the girls of blowing things out of proportion and threatened to spoil their future course as they were ready to sit for the final exams. The parents too backed off scared of the consequences including shame that may be brought upon the girls. This made me understand the root of the lack of trust which essentially starts from our first point of contact which may be the family, school, society or institution. The further the point of contact with authority is perceived, the added increased in lack of trust it generates. Delayed redressal and justice (if at all) further compound the hesitation in reporting a crime let alone seeking justice through authorities. No wonder the percentage of reported crime is abysmally low (Only 86% through an estimate of crimes seem to get reported). In this case, the first point of contact was represented by the family and then the school. And with the complete apathy of the school for even acknowledging the crime let alone the redressal had left the students clueless about the further course of action.

Organisations working with abuse survivors or NGOs offering families support have an important role to play in bridging this gap. While there are some national-level support groups (Sheroes offers online counselling through their app) and government-aided helplines, identifying NGOs at the regional level can be a huge support. Unless the survivors and their families find the courage and trust to report such crimes, the perpetrators will get emboldened and continue to commit these in future.

Justice can only be delivered if the crime is reported first, I can’t lay enough stress on this. My conversation with IPS Chhaya Sharma earlier documents the step-by-step course of action in case of a heinous crime (or any crime for that matter) and the first step is to report it. We as a society will need to overcome this trust deficit which starts at the level of the family, school, institution and so on. I believe in the law of the land and in officers like Chhaya Sharma. Despite a very public media trial she caught Nirbhayas perpetrators and helped deliver justice through an episode that shook not just the city but the whole country. It also triggered the much-needed change in laws with the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 .

The sessions to motivate standing up for what’s right have been fulfilling at many levels for me personally. We have travelled extensively across different state universities in India. We’ve conducted sessions with the youth from Maharashtra (Pune), Uttar Pradesh (Kanpur & Prayagraj), Bihar (Purnea), West Bengal (Kolkatta), Boko (Assam), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and now Puthoor in Kerala.

We reached Trivandrum on 16th October and made most of the day exploring the sites and sounds of the city including the beautiful backwaters of Pavoor.

Vanshika (Josh Talks intern who flawlessly organises these sessions and coordinates with colleges) and I reached Sree Budha college the next day after a 3-hour road trip. The idea is to be able to reach the remotest corners of the country, addressing the youth that is left bereft of important sessions like these. We were given a tour of the Sree Budha College of Engineering campus which sits in a beautiful locale next to the Karingalichal Lake. The college itself was established in 2002 and was initially known to be the Abdul Kalam Technological University. Besides others, it also offers Artificial Intelligence as an engineering degree.

The principal Dr. Krishna Kumar had, quite literally, a birdseye view of the campus with multiple CCTV screens in his office. Its the first thing I noticed as we were ushered in before the session by the department head of civil engineering, Dr Gauri Antharajanam. Sree Budha College has about 1000 students, most of whom are day scholars coming from neighbouring places. After the initial formalities with the faculty we approached to address around 400 of them in a semi-open auditorium.

The session was well received (even though the boys and girls sat segregated in the auditorium- my remark questioning why drew an energetic applause evidently resonating the students mindsets as well). And so we started the hourlong session on awareness, prevention & eradication of violence agaist women. Post which the incident at the neighbouring school was discussed including details on the plausible course of action.

Combating violence against women is a subject very close to my heart and to get such an opportunity to be able to conduct these sessions, I remain grateful to JOSH TALKS and TVS Radar. We have been traveling extensively to conduct sessions to combat violence against women. These interactions aim to proactively affect real change by targeting the youth of the country, equipping them with the necessary information & tools, and most importantly motivating them to stand for what’s right. 

If you would like to have us conduct this 90-minute session in your college or company just drop us a mail with the details of the institution and the prefered dates at suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com.

Links for further study

To read about the Vizag Chapter click here>>

To read about the Chennai, Chapter click here>>

To read about the Prayagraj Chapter click here>>

To read about Assam Chapter click here>>

To read about Kolkatta Chapter click here>>

To read about the Kanpur Chapter click here>>

To read about the Purnea Bihar Chapter click here>>

To read about the Pune experience click here>>

To know more about the online session experience read here >>

PS: if you stand for what is right – team SABERA (Annual Awards and Summit by the  Simply Suparnaa © Media Network) jury is looking for you Register here>>

The post Puthoor Kerala Chapter I Combating Violence against women appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Shakti continues to be our guiding force, it was but natural for us to pay our obeisance to her in Kamakhya as soon as we landed in Guwahati. Being a Shakti (energy) devout, it was my long-standing desire to visit Kamakhya Devi which was fulfilled thanks to the sessions that are taking us across the remotest corners of the country.

Grateful for the opportunity to both JOSH TALKS and TVS Radar, for conducting these sessions. Vanshika (Interning with JOSH TALKS is a bright student of sociology and diligently manages all coordination for this project) and I are grasping the sights, sounds and cuisines of the beauty that our country holds across its length and breadth. The cherry on this particular trip was the view of the majestic Himalayan peak of Mount Everest on the flight!

Boko is a tribal belt in Assam, a couple of hours on road from Guwahati. The road winds through virgin forests, sparse native dwellings and paddy fields. The Brahmaputra flows in its full glory along these roads and our cab driver further entertained us with Assamese popular songs.

We were pleasantly greeted by a large banner announcing our session at the Jawaharlal Nehru college premises and were promptly escorted to the Dean, Mr Tapan Dutta’s office by the student coordinators. Here we also exchanged notes with the head of the Gender equity cell and the Vice Principal. While they shared the unique challenges of the state including witch hunting (!), I increasingly became aware of the different dialects and felt uncertain if the students would be able to grasp all that we had come to share. My apprehensions grew stronger as we were apprised that the majority of students were from the different tribes of the region including Rabha, Karbi, Garo, Hajhong, Bodo and Damaso just to name a few.

I was requested to go slow and speak predominantly in Hindi (am sure I breathed a sigh of relief at this point) as the students were well versed in Hindi, English and Assamese.

300 students from undergraduate and postgraduate courses attended with an equal number of attendees from both genders. The principal’s endeavour is to include other genders in the near future as well.

While the internet played truant so did the AV equipment but speaking from the heart didn’t require much beyond an honest intent to connect in spite of all stumbling blocks. The testimony to these sessions is the interaction of students. The faculty are often amazed at the honesty with which the students ask questions and share extremely personal anecdotes. So was the case that morning in Boko. We managed to create a safe space for students like Abantika to ask a question that had never been satisfactorily addressed by anyone in the past. Not even by her mother.

After a traditional Assamese thali in the canteen with the faculty, which comprised of the staple rice, Moong daal, and different vegetables (we had requested a vegetarian meal), it was time to head to the airport. Vanshika and I bid adieu to the college taking with us a host of gifts including the traditional Jappi, a headgear worn by farmers in the field, a stole woven by the Rabha tribe and Gamuchha with traditional motifs (similar to the one in Bihar). It was time for us to head home after another fulfilling session.

These sessions are a part of the marketing initiative of TVS Radar that JOSH TALKS is helping conduct through the help of their network with educational institutes across states that are the target segment for TVS.

If you would like to have us conduct this 90-minute session in your college or company just drop us a mail with the details of the institution and the prefered dates at suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com.

Links for further study

To read about the Kanpur Chapter click here>>

To read about the Purnea, Bihar Chapter click here>>

To read about the Pune experience click here>>

To know more about the online session experience read here >>

PS: if you stand for what is right – team SABERA (Annual Awards and Summit by the  Simply Suparnaa © Media Network) jury is looking for you Register here>>

To support our initiative Woman Endangered contribute here.

The post Standup for what’s Right I Combat violence against women I Assam Chapter appeared first on Woman Endangered.