Where the Mind is Without Fear…

As we prepare to celebrate the 78th Independence Day of our nation, a poignant thought surfaces in my mind. Recent news stories have once again highlighted the persistent exploitation and subjugation of women of all ages, evoking a range of emotions from anger and rage to deep sadness and disappointment. It is disheartening to realise that while our nation achieved its independence 77 years ago and has made significant strides in various domains, it still struggles to respect and uphold the rights of fifty per cent of its population—the women who give birth to the remaining fifty per cent. How unfortunate we are!

In light of this, I am compelled to express my feelings about what freedom means to me as a woman citizen of this country. My aspirations echo the words of Rabindranath Tagore, as I yearn to live in a world where the mind is without fear and I can hold my head high, making choices freely and confidently. For me, freedom encompasses the right to be heard and respected in a society still grappling with the deep-rooted grip of patriarchy. It is about breaking free from the traditional gender roles that confine us, allowing us to make decisions independently, whether at home or in the boardroom.

Freedom means possessing the courage to step into spaces traditionally dominated by men at all times and in all situations. It entails having a significant voice in governance and policy matters that impact not only my life but also future generations. It is the freedom to step out of my house at midnight, dressed as I please, without fear of harassment or judgment. It includes the right to make life choices without the fear of societal repercussions, whether those choices pertain to my career, marriage, motherhood, or the decision to leave a deteriorating marriage. I desire the freedom to travel and follow my own path, unrestricted by societal norms or expectations. My physical strength, or perceived lack thereof, should not be a reason to hold me back. True freedom is the opportunity to celebrate my identity as a woman, an Indian, and an individual—each aspect integral to my identity. While I possess the strength to challenge stereotypes and the resilience to withstand societal pressures, I yearn for the support and encouragement to do so and to uplift others along the way.

Freedom also encompasses economic independence, where I can pursue a career of my choice, earn and manage my own money, and have equal opportunities for economic advancement. It means ensuring that every girl and woman has access to quality education, which is the foundation for making informed choices and achieving personal and professional goals.

Freedom includes initiating awareness campaigns to educate society about gender equality, women’s rights, and the importance of respecting women. It extends to healthcare access, encompassing comprehensive healthcare services, including reproductive health, mental health, and preventative care. Emphasising the importance of mental health support systems for women dealing with the pressures of societal expectations and gender-based violence is crucial. Strengthening legal frameworks to protect women from all forms of violence, discrimination, and exploitation is essential, as is ensuring that the justice system is accessible, fair, and responsive to the needs of women seeking justice for gender-based crimes.

Freedom involves actively working to dismantle harmful stereotypes and cultural norms that limit women’s potential and freedom. Encouraging positive representation of women in media and highlighting diverse and empowering stories that inspire change is vital. Building robust support networks for women, including mentorship programs, women’s groups, and community initiatives, promotes solidarity and sisterhood. This fosters a sense of community and shared purpose, supporting women in their personal and professional endeavours.

As we commemorate this 78th Independence Day, I honour the progress we have made, but I also fervently wish for a world where every woman, regardless of her background, can live with dignity, equality, and boundless opportunities. Let this be the era where freedom truly becomes synonymous with respect, equality, and unbridled potential for every woman in our country.