Shadows of Patriarchy: Are We Truly an Equal Society?

Reflecting on the past few centuries, it’s clear that Indian society has long been dominated by men — a dominance that continues to influence modern roles in career, family, and society. This male-dominance, largely self-assigned, has kept women marginalized in various aspects of life, from career opportunities to financial decision-making within households. The founding fathers of India’s constitution recognized this inequality and sought to address it by granting women special provisions and reservations. Yet, the question remains: has this translated into true equality?

Visible Progress, Hidden Realities

There’s no denying that we’ve made significant strides. We can proudly point to female leaders at the highest levels: a female President, female Prime Ministers, and women who are key players in politics, science, and business. Women today hold positions in Parliament, serve as IAS officers, lead corporations, and contribute significantly across almost every field. However, does this progress represent the entire nation?

India doesn’t only reside in its metro cities. The real India, with its roots in villages and smaller towns, still holds onto traditional norms that deeply impact gender equality. At the grassroots level, women’s participation in leadership, decision-making, and even basic rights is often hindered by patriarchal mindsets deeply ingrained in the social fabric. Over 60% of rural women remain engaged in unpaid labor, underscoring…