Breaking Stereotypes: Personal Experiences of Indian Women in Rural India

Avik’s Question: Thank you for your question, Avik. I am a simple and honest girl living in a small village in Odisha, India. Here, people still believe that girls or women have nothing to do in the public sphere.

Addressing Stereotypical Mindsets

While coming from Indian families, it is very common and endearing for parents to refer to their daughters as Beta. Initially, this practice mesmerized me, but soon I realized that it was not appropriate. No one ever refers to a son as Beti, as it seems demeaning for boys. To make a change, I would pause and insist that it should be 'Beti'.' This correction is a small but significant step towards overcoming the stereotypical mindset prevalent in folk culture. I take pride in being called a 'Beti,''

Challenges and Struggles: The Case of a Rural Girl

My journey to education and career has not been easy. In my village, with a population of more than 2000 people, only about 30 have basic elementary education. Women’s participation in public life is minimal, and educating a girl is often seen as unnecessary. My parents were always worried about my marriage and talked about it frequently. As a child, I was excited about marriage because my friends and I always played games associated with a life after marriage, like cooking, caring for a doll, and cleaning a house.

After passing my high school exams with a satisfactory mark of nearly 80%, I faced criticism from my neighbors. They said it was a good result, but as a girl, my prime responsibility was to get married soon and make my parents happy. This statement was deeply disturbing. I questioned the value of securing a good mark for a girl, abandoned my dream for marriage, and my parents' happiness by marriage. I was lost in thought, unable to think of myself.

My father supported me, but his influence was affected by the negative comments from our villagers. Eventually, I decided to continue my education, disregarding the devastation this decision brought to my family. I demanded to continue my studies, which was highly challenging and revolutionary for everyone in my village. My determination to pursue higher education despite the social pressure was met with overwhelming support from my parents. In 2016, I completed my Post Graduation and am currently working hard to secure a job.

Transformation and Empowerment

Today, I am the first woman from our entire Panchayat to have pursued a Post Graduation degree from a reputable college. My success has transformed the mindset of many villagers regarding women’s education and empowerment. Previously, people discouraged me and others from pursuing education. Now, they are actively talking about my journey and struggles. Many parents and girls come to me for advice and guidance on their careers and education.

Their admiration and respect for me have dramatically changed the stereotypical behavior surrounding women’s education in our village. My journey is a testament to the fact that with determination and support, it is possible to break gender stereotypes and challenge societal norms.

Thank you for your time.