World over 8th of March each year is celebrated as International Women’s Day. Even though in India, Women’s Day celebrations gained momentum just over last couple of decades, it has a history of more than 100 years.
Views on the significance of this day varies as we take a deep look into each country and its culture. The word ‘Celebration’ is often used when there is a success, yet even on this day in 21st Century we are talking about issues that have plagued society for ages. Ever since 1996 United Nations (UN) comes up with a theme for this occasion. Undoubtedly, the focus and attention has shifted to addressing the issues like Women Rights, Education, Equality, Empowerment etc.
We in India have various occasions to celebrate Women’s day. Our rich culture which dates back to the B.Cs’ has always taught us to respect women and treat them like god. As a child I always saw my mom struggle in all ways. Life wasn't easy for her as she used to work a full time job and yet took care of us with ease. And now as a father and a husband, I am just amazed and proud at what my wife does for us. So yes, this day certainly calls for celebration! But world across we seem to have challenges around addressing some serious issues pertaining to women. While in some regions it’s focused on Women Health, which I would believe is a basic human right and in others we have broader issues like women safety, Equality in society etc.
With so much of progress that the world has seen, be it in the field of Manufacturing, IT, Services Ironically, even in 2014 these bare minimums remains to be an issue.
What are we doing about it? Probably quite a lot, the very fact that we are becoming aware of these issues which are happening around us is a positive sign. World media, be it print, electronic or social media has done a commendable job. Now issues gets spoken, discussed in moments as they get media limelight. On the other hand, this also is a huge concern. We aren't able to go beyond discussions and we rarely are able to ‘resolve’ issues. World politics at large is a classic example of this.
There is a saying that one has to fight her own battle. Yes, it isn't easy, at times we need support & empowerment, but if we are talking about resolving issues, the effort should be equal from both sides and Men should definitely continue to support causes concerning women in our society. Lot of them are already doing that, which is great, but a lot is still required to be done.
Let’s take a pledge, not an impossible one, but a one which is strong enough to bring a change. For all that we get, without asking anything in return, lets treat each women around us with utmost respect, dignity and equality.
