When young girls today say that they want to be like Priyanka Chopra, the parents feel happy about it. We have left the days far away when idolizing film stars was looked down upon. Priyanka Chopra is a best example of a confident ambitious Indian who has made the country proud with her exceptional success in Bollywood and Hollywood. On account of International Women’s day, we feel proud of other young Indian girls like Swati singh, Mary Kom, Saina Nehwal, Babita Phogat who are huge achievers in their own field and represent the changing situation and mindset in the patriarchal Indian society.
Looking at the entire female population of India, around 70 percent of the girls still do not have the same level of freedom and privileges which others might have had. Yet they are fighting their own battles and trying to lead a dignified and independent life. Specially, girls living in rural Indian villages are the worst victims of typical male chauvinistic traditions. They are regularly oppressed and not given the basic freedom to choose the life of their liking. Even urban girls who are part of aristocratic families have to face various oppositions to fulfill basic requirements. In such situations, it is imperative for the progressive Indian society to encourage their women and help them succeed.
Women, who already have in built courage and determination, need to come out of the closets and fight for their rights. Only if they can make certain small changes in their attitude towards life, it can lead to a phenomenal change in the quality of their lives. Below are some of the things today’s young Indian women need to ponder:
Women are equal to men in every respect
This is one of the strongest mindset women in India need to accept and believe. Others can’t help women unless they think of themselves as equal. So, stop prioritizing your husbands and brothers over yourself and concentrate on your needs. Its only when you are satisfied and happy in your life, you can make others happy.
Always have a dream
Yes. It is extremely important for women to have a dream. Dream are a combination of desires, ambition and self-confidence. Only when you have a dream, you will actively work towards fulfilling it. No amount of success or money can give you the happiness which comes with achieving ones dream.
Keep learning
Education liberates you and makes you aware. It also gives you the right attitude and tons of self-confidence. With continuous learning, you not only help yourself but also help others. An educated woman educates the entire family and creates a right foundation for a life full of happiness and peace.
Keep the fire burning inside
If you feel envious of another person’s success so be it. A little jealously is always good for you because it helps in burning the fire within. It generates a sense of competition and if given right direction, it can help you achieve your destination.
Support other women
Sometimes, women are their own worst enemies. So an egotist and selfish mother in law can be the biggest negative force in her daughter in laws life who wants to break away from oppressive customs and traditions. This not only diminishes your own standing as a woman but also breaks the family’s progress. Best way is to respect other women and don’t make her the victim only because you yourself have gone through enormous pain. Your respect and support to other women eventually pays you rich dividends in terms of respect and fulfillment. So be empathetic and let the support come in.
Have tons of patience
It is difficult to breaks away easily from the clutches of thousands of year old rigid male dominated society. If you want to start something new against the tradition start it slowly with proper planning. Even if it is taking years to achieve, its always worth it to keep up the struggle till the last breath. Believe in yourself and deal with the situations patiently. Your efforts are bound to fetch you results sooner or later.
Retain your feminine side to the fullest
In an attempt to be different and achieve your dreams, you might sometimes lose touch with your womanly sensibilities. But do not forget, it’s the womanly love, care, affection and internal strength that actually makes you whole. Do not lose the touch with your internal feminine self. Appreciate the silly girly gossip, the colorful dresses, the different hairstyles, the seductive smile, the emotions, the attention, everything. Be who you are and celebrate your womanhood to the fullest.