"Ma I have brought something for you." Mira said and handed the package to her mother, Savita. "What is this Mira?" Savita asked. "Oh just open it Ma" Mira said excitedly. Savita smiled and opened the package. "This is a sari" Savita said in disbelief. "Yes Ma and it is your favorite color too, purple". "Mira is this some kind of a joke? You know I cannot wear colors right?" Savita asked in despair. "And who has made a rule like that? I know that you are still grieving Pa's death but that does not mean you should forget about living your life. You like purple, so wear it. Just think of it as part of moving on with your life. Please Ma, wear it just once" Mira implored.
"This will create a scandal Mira. What will people say?". "What has anybody got to do anything with what you choose to do Ma? Its your life and your choice, you don't have to care about others opinions. Let them talk what they want, I am here to support you" Mira said and held her mother's hand. Savita looked at her daughter and smiled through her tears.
(In many parts of India, when a husband dies the wife is turned into a widow and during that time she is not supposed to wear colorful clothes or jewelry. Some women also shave their heads and live their life like a celibate)
"This will create a scandal Mira. What will people say?". "What has anybody got to do anything with what you choose to do Ma? Its your life and your choice, you don't have to care about others opinions. Let them talk what they want, I am here to support you" Mira said and held her mother's hand. Savita looked at her daughter and smiled through her tears.
(In many parts of India, when a husband dies the wife is turned into a widow and during that time she is not supposed to wear colorful clothes or jewelry. Some women also shave their heads and live their life like a celibate)
These external societal pressures on women have changed significantly in urban centres and among the more affluent and/or educated people. But sadly continue much the same in the rural areas, where the larger proportion of the population lives. Well done on highlighting the issue.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck with the rest of the challenge,
Nilanjana.
Madly-in-Verse
Yes the times are changing, but not completely. Thanks for stopping by :)
DeleteNo color ever? Not like just for a year? I'd get for a year, tops, but not forever. But that's just me.
ReplyDeleteThat is how it is in some communities. Thanks for stopping by :)
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