The event was hosted at the exclusive Directors Club Lounge in Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj—a hidden gem that I explored during a short tour courtesy of PVR representatives. However, the heart of the experience was the interaction at the conference facility, where I shared a delicious five-course meal with eleven inspiring women managing Delhi’s ‘Pink Toilets’ turned ‘Garima Grihs’.

Read more about SABERA Awardee and guest of Honour Chhaya Sharma

The Pink Toilets Initiative: Recognized by SABERA

The Pink Toilets initiative, honored by the SABERA Awards, is a stellar example of how public-private partnerships can drive real change. What began as a civic facility for women has been transformed into safe, clean spaces and hubs for empowerment under PVR Nest’s guidance.

Managed by an inspiring group of women like Kiran, Kavita, Babita, Pooja, Laxmi, Chandini, Anjum, Monika, Mithilesh, and Reena, these centers now offer skilling courses in sewing, beauty, and hygiene. They’ve also become safe spaces for breastfeeding and community education, impacting neighboring areas by promoting cleanliness and health awareness.

Lakshmi, who oversees the RK Puram center, reflected on her journey:
“Initially, I would burst into tears when people in the community taunted me for asking them to keep their surroundings clean. Even my family questioned why I wanted to work in a toilet. But thanks to the persistence and encouragement of my cohort leaders, I persevered. Today, I am respected for the work I do.”

These centers have not only provided a source of income for these women—many of whom are now the primary earners in their families—but also created safe, welcoming spaces that benefit entire communities.

PVR Nest’s Power of One Program: Driving Social Impact

The Power of One program by PVR Nest highlights the potential of grassroots initiatives to create a ripple effect of positive change. This public-private partnership focuses on uplifting women and girls from vulnerable urban slum communities by providing skilling opportunities and socio-economic advancement tools.

The program’s WeRise Changemaker initiative has been specially designed to build leadership and communication skills for community leaders. Members of the Pink Toilets initiative participated in the first edition of this program, which is helping them develop the confidence and knowledge to become role models and changemakers.

I was honored to lead the opening session, “Every Woman is a Leader,” where I shared insights about harnessing inner strength to inspire and influence positive change in one’s community. It was an engaging and humbling experience, with each woman’s journey serving as a testament to resilience and empowerment.

A Day of Inspiration

The day concluded with meaningful conversations over a sumptuous five-course meal at the Directors Lounge. I returned home deeply inspired by the courage and determination of these women, who are breaking barriers and creating ripples of change in their communities.

The Pink Toilets initiative, recognized by the SABERA Awards, stands as a powerful testament to how women when given the right tools and support, can transform not only their own lives but also the lives of those around them.

SABERA 2024 are scheduled for December 11th at the India Habitat Centre, where more such stories of Impact will be celebrated. To attend register and reserve delegate passes here

The post Empowering Women One Pink toilet at a time appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Location: Sathya Sai Grama, Muddenahalli, Karnataka, India

The Leadership Conclave held at Sathya Sai Grama in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, was an awe-inspiring event that brought together leaders and visionaries from over 40 countries. The conclave centered around the theme of “Nurturing a Values-Based Leadership Approach,” with 5 sessions. I had the honor to chair the session on women and ethics in leadership. The esteemed panelists, Dr. Kiranmai Pendyala, Ms. Prerana Langa, Ms. Kristin Engvig, and Dr. Snehal Donde, shared their insights and experiences, offering a diverse range of perspectives on this crucial topic.

As the session chair, it was my privilege to open the discussion by highlighting the significance of ethics, and women, and drawing inspiration from spiritual guidance to demonstrate courage amidst challenges. I emphasized the importance of walking the talk, even in the face of adversity. By setting an example and embracing ethical principles, leaders can inspire others and create sustainable, inclusive organizations that nurture women for leadership roles.

Dr. Kiranmai Pendyala, Corporate VP of HR at UPS India Technology Center, brought forth her invaluable learnings on fostering sustainable and inclusive organizations. She emphasized the need to nurture an environment where women are empowered to take on leadership roles. By providing equal opportunities, mentorship, and support, organizations can harness the immense potential of women leaders and pave the way for a brighter future.

Dr. Snehal Donde, a Fulbright Scholar and Dean of Administration at Bhaktivedanta Research Centre, highlighted the importance of environmental mindfulness. She spoke passionately about rejuvenating water bodies and creating a sustainable future. By recognizing and minimizing the environmental impacts of our actions, leaders can contribute to the well-being of the planet and future generations.

Ms. Prerana Langa, the Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, shared her insights on instilling values within organizations to motivate people to do good. She emphasized that when organizations prioritize values and ethics, it creates a positive and uplifting work culture that encourages employees to make a meaningful difference in their communities. By aligning their actions with their values, leaders can inspire their teams to embrace a higher purpose.

Ms. Kristin Engvig, the Founder and President of WIN ‘Inspiring Women Worldwide’ from Switzerland, brought Nordic wisdom to the conclave. She emphasized the importance of balancing both masculine and feminine energies in leadership. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting inclusive decision-making, leaders can create a harmonious environment that fosters creativity, empathy, and collaboration.

The Leadership Conclave at Sathya Sai Grama was a testament to the power of values-based leadership. It provided a platform for leaders from various countries and backgrounds to come together and exchange ideas on nurturing ethical leadership and empowering women. The conclave showcased the significance of spirituality, environmental consciousness, and values in shaping effective leadership.

Organized by Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, the conclave served as a catalyst for change, inspiring leaders to embrace a values-driven approach in their organizations and communities. By nurturing ethical leaders who lead by example, we can create a better world that promotes equality, inclusivity, and sustainable development.

The conclave left a lasting impact on its attendees, sparking meaningful conversations, and providing a roadmap for creating a values-based leadership approach. As we reflect on the insightful discussions and learnings shared during the conclave, let us continue to champion ethics, empower women, and strive for a leadership style that embodies compassion, integrity, and a deep commitment to the greater good.

The post Nurturing a Values-Based Leadership Approach: Women and Ethics in Leadership 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.

Last year, I reached out to Ruma Roka, who has been a SABERA awardee, to discuss the idea of the #LetsTalkPeriod session at the Noida Deaf Society. It would require a sign language interpreter to communicate the session to the girls and their mothers, who would also be invited to the 90-minute workshop followed by hot samosas and a soft drink.

On the 25th day of January 2023, WE conducted our very first session with a classroom of girls with hearing impairment along with some of their mothers. The girls were interactive from the word go and had lots of questions, observations, and comments. It was heartening to see that they weren’t shy to express their views on Periods or Menstrual hygiene! Maybe their inability to hear has cocooned them of the social constructs and taboos!

Their openness and confidence definitely reflected the safe space that the Noida Deaf Society and its teachers provide for them to help them live well-rounded life despite their disabilities. I was apprised of some horror stories of how deaf girls are extremely vulnerable and can be subject to exploitation by their own teachers. Being visually able, young deaf girls like all other teenagers, like to dress up and look good. There have been cases where the teachers have exploited them sexually, in the lure of a dress or jeans, the heinous acts being hidden in the girls’ inability to speak up for themselves.

We gifted the girls, 20 LAADLI Kits(containing 5 cloth pads, 2 jackets, and I small purse ) that were received pro bono from Stonesoup trust. The girls were also taught how to use, wash, dry, and store them.

The feedback from the girls post the session was humbling and I am grateful for this opportunity.

Karishma was the Indian sign Language interpreter. The only request I had to heed was to go slow. On average, an interpreter is required to take a break after 60 minutes but Karishma was just as passionate about it.

We wrapped the session, as usual with some yog asanas and simple home remedies to address irregularities through periods including cramps, body aches, and rash but the most important factor is to reinforce a positive association with this natural regular cycle that mother nature has bestowed on us to sustain the universe. This also helps allay a lot of these symptoms when we look forward to the periodic cycle.

Incase, you would like us to conduct this workshop in your institute or organization, do write to us at womanendangered@gmail.com or suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com

You can also contribute here to help us reach out to more girls and women with the #LetsTalkPeriod session and to gift a sustainable menstrual hygiene solution of a menstrual cup or cloth pad.

The post Menstrual hygiene session I Girls with hearing impairment 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.

Surana was in the heart of the cosmopolitan city of Bangalore, unlike most of our previous excursions which have been in the remotest corners of the states from Puthoor in Kerala to Purnea in Bihar or even Boko in Assam. Even so, we were apprised of the unique challenges the private technical institutes faced in the bustling modern city.

Before the actual session we normally have an informal chit-chat with the dean or person incharge of managing the institute to get oriented to the culture of the college in particular and the state/city at large. At Surana we interacted with the chair of the student council Dr Chandana who introduced us to the principal Dr Kumar. Through our conversation Dr Kumar apprised us of the high fees levied by the private technical institutes in the region, which in some cases has led girl students into the trap of sexual favors. On being asked if the same has been reported or a any data available, he shared while no formal complaints have been filed so far but the the social media is rampant with such allegations. A casual search on the net reveals many instances of sexual favors being asked of students for marks in private universities in Karnataka.

The session itself was attended by over 350 students in their beautiful designed cedar wood finished auditorium in the basement. The energy was high after the ‘tech check’ of the sound system was done by presumambly beat boxing!

Each session, as Vanshika (The coordinator of all these sessions on behalf of JOSH TALKS for TVS Raider) and I mused, seems to have its own trajectory mapping the mood of the audience. While we cover all the essential points but the communication adapts itself to each college, city and state we’ve visited so far. While the medium remains Hindi and English, and the media a presentation and a few videos, my extempore interaction changes with each session with inputs from the previous workshops, some personal anecdotes and a gentle push for the students to contribute through their experiences as well.

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 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 recognising the GOOD work across India. While the

The post Karnataka I Stand up for what’s Right 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.

Vizag as the Britishers coined it for lack of the ability to pronounce Vishakhapatnam, was the port town that gave access through the east coast to the wonder called India. We reached Vizag on the evening of September 10th for the session planned the next day at Gitam deemed university.

Early the next morning we planned to go towards the beach before setting out for the session. The Ramakrishna beach was some 4km from the hotel and we decided to walk in the light drizzle to build an appetite before breakfast. I was pleasantly surprised by the roads winding up and down the hilly terrain. It is indeed beautiful to trek down the road that opens up beautifully to the wide expanse of the east coast. Vishakhapatnam is beautiful. We were mesmerised by the pull of the Bay of Bengal. Ill-prepared as we were to experience her in all her glory, we were taken aback by her ferocity. With the waves hitting the shores akin to lightning, the Bay of Bengal was raging. We retreated soon enough and enjoyed her unremitting waves from a distance.

It was only later that we discovered the Bay of Bengal as experienced through the east of India rages all through the coastlines from Vishakhapatnam to Orissa. Unlike the sea on the west coast of India which allows swimmers to enjoy diving or playing a sport. All sports and even swimming close to the coastline are discouraged on this side where there have been many fatal incidents without so much as a trace left behind. That said the coastline is gorgeous. We thoroughly enjoyed our drive winding up the hill with the ocean as the view opened up to the horizon.

The session itself was scheduled for 4 pm. Gitam university’s 110-acre campus sits beautifully atop a hill overlooking the ocean. And if you happen to be there in the evening the air is rent with a spiritual fervour with the sounds of the Aarti performed in the adjoining Sri Venkateshwar temple aarti.

We, Vanshika (Josh Talks intern who flawlessly organises these sessions coordinating with colleges) and I were given an extensive tour of the campus. The university boasts 12 ‘Bhavans’ each of which is a dedicated college to a specific stream from sciences, liberal arts and so on.

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. for conducting These pertinent sessions aim to proactively affect real change targeting the youth of the country, equipping them with the necessary information & tools and most importantly motivate to stand for what’s right.

The session was attended by 200 plus students including both girls and boys. I realised just like in Chennai, here too the students were shy to come out and speak openly. But soon enough as the session ended I had young girls approach me with their individual experiences, resonating with the need for such sessions. A simple decision of being on the organising committee for the football club had questions raised on the intention of the girl, shared a student. And not from boys but other female students. These unconscious biases affect women as much as they do men is an undeniable fact. While the said concern may seem trivial but it reflects the deeply ingrained biases which may play out not so trivially moving on. And hence the need for all genders to be aware and mindful of their intention, choices and actions.

We were also lucky to experience an almost full moon rise on the drive after our session.

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 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 Vizag 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.

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