Strong Indian Women: The Past, Present and Future By Umica Joyce D'Souza

 

Strong Indian Women: The Past, Present and Future

 

 

Introduction

 

Indian history is rich in culture and tradition, with women playing an essential role in shaping the social, cultural, and political scene of the country. From warrior queens to freedom fighters, Indian women have fought in the face of adversity and broken barriers to create a path for future generations. Indian women have always stood strong in their accomplishments, whether it was winning the Miss Universe/World competitions to space travel or simply being a mother and homemaker influencing future leaders. These women held their heads up high, stood with grace, and moved along history with stories to tell. Being a woman in a country like India is a different ballgame, but women play the impossible game. There is one Indira Ghandi quote that comes to mind in terms of strength of a woman:

“To be liberated, a woman must feel free to be herself. This isn’t in reference with rivalry to man but in the context of her own capacity and her personality.” 

This article will explore the past and present history of inspirational women, which has laid a pivotal foundation shaping the future of all Indian women.

 

History of Trailblazing Leaders Breaking Barriers: From Tradition to Progress

Throughout history, women in India have challenged societal expectations and customs while keeping culture and tradition and forging their own paths. Their struggle for equal rights and liberation from patriarchal limitations illustrates their resilience and fortitude in overcoming trials. The transformation of women's roles within Indian society embodies a narrative of courageousness and determination, with each generation advancing the successes of its predecessors.

 

Women in Politics

There were several iconic trailing blazing leaders of India. Amongst these was Indira Gandhi. She was the first female Indian Prime Minister of India. She was smart, clever, determined, and graceful. In the male-dominated landscape, she broke barriers, leaving behind a lasting legacy of a strong female role model. Her commitment to the arena of social justice and female gender roles continues to encourage women to this day. Sushma Swaraj shaped the geopolitical landscape of India with graceful service and diplomacy. With her commitment to public service, she broke glass ceilings in terms of politics and won hearts.

Women in Beauty

Three Miss Universe winners originated from India, Sushmita Sen (1994), Lara Dutta (2000), and Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu (2021). Women from India to reigned in the Miss World competition include, Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden, (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000), and Manushi Chillar (2017).

 

Women in Business

Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, the founder of Biocon, a leading biotechnology company, pioneered in the field of healthcare and innovation in India. Chanda Kochhar, former CEO and Managing Director of ICICI Bank, is an inspirational leader in the Indian banking sector.

 

Women in Science

Kalpana Chawla was the first woman of Indian origin to lead in the field of space exploration on board the Space Shuttle Columbia. Tessy Thomas (Missile Woman of India), led through science and research, ended up as Project Director for Agni-IV missile in the Defense Research and Development Organization.

 

Women in Arts 

Zoya Akhtar is a prominent filmmaker and screenwriter with her critically acclaimed movies like Gully Boy and Dil Dhadakne Do under her belt. Anjolie Ela Menon is a renowned painter and muralist known for her bold contemporary art that captures Indian life and culture.

 

Women in Sports

Mary Kom is a six-time world champion in boxing, serving as a role model for ambitious athletes. PV Sindhu is an Olympic silver medalist and badminton star with her extraordinary talent and commitment to the sport.

 

Women Homemakers

In India, around 160 million women are involved in homemaking activities. Data from the National Sample Survey Organization shows that normally, a woman dedicates 297 minutes each day to household tasks when compared to a man who contributes merely 31 minutes per day to the same activities.

 

Evolution of Weddings: From Arranged Marriages to Love Matches

Indian weddings have historically signified a deep-rooted connection to tradition and familial values, with arranged marriages being the predominant practice for countless generations. Nevertheless, there has been a prominent transition over the years towards love-based unions, meaning there has been increasing independence for women in selecting their spouses. This transformation indicates a broader alteration in societal perceptions of gender roles, leading to the empowerment of women who then exercise their own involvement in romantic relationships.

 

Evolution of Cooking: From Home Kitchens to Professional Chefs

The practice of cooking has long been a foundational aspect of Indian culture, previously associated with women who have served as homemakers and family caretakers. However, there has currently been a noteworthy increase in the number of women entering the culinary profession, achieving acknowledgment as talented chefs when compared to men. This shift highlights the promise, passion, and skill of Indian women in the culinary field, challenging historical labels, and producing new prospects within the gastronomic landscape.

 

Evolution of Fashion: From Traditional Attire to Global Trends

Indian women have historically been renowned for their elegant and vivacious traditional clothing, including sarees, salwar kameez, and lehengas. In modern times, there has been an amalgamation of these traditional garments with international fashion influences, resulting in a dynamic fusion in the fashion landscape of India. Women are progressively exploring innovative styles and asserting their individuality through their fashion choices, which mirrors the evolving perceptions of self-expression and empowerment.

 

Evolution of Careers: From Housewives to Entrepreneurs

The era in which Indian women were only limited to the roles of homemakers and caregivers is now evolving. Presently, women in India are surpassing limitations across various sectors, including politics, business, beauty, science, and sports. The progression of women in the workforce characterizes an unusual journey towards empowerment and equality, with Indian women asserting their presence on the global stage through their skills, resolution, and tenacity. Overall, the outlook is promising as an increasing number of women persist in breaking stereotypes and redefining their own paths towards success.

 

Conclusion

The narrative of successful Indian women demonstrates the unwavering spirit, resilience, and exceptional talent epitomized by women. By breaking through complex barriers enforced by societal norms in the past and present, we celebrate the remarkable people who fashioned an aspiring legacy for future generations. As we recount their achievements, it is essential to forge ahead towards the future with bravery and fortitude while driving our own goals. Thus, we journey forward while continuing to support and elevate women across all spheres, promoting a more just, equitable, and inclusive future.

 

Short Author Bio

Umica Joyce D’Souza is a Sustainable Design Architect, Visual Storyteller & Researcher creating well designed communities which improve quality of life.