CHANGING GENDER NORMS

Our society has from the very beginning been governed by gender norms, assigning a place for each of the sexes and it was always expected for us to adhere to it . But in recent times with rising consciousness about the biased wall that separates the different sexes, society has strived to make the workspace more habitable so that there can be peaceful co-existence. History has led us to believe how that society which is deficient in practicing equality can be defunct and not let the country prosper as a whole. Naming a few revolutionary figures like Mary Kom, Kalpana Chawla, Vikram Seth, Gauri Sawant, Sanjeev Kapoor who should be lauded for breaking gender barriers and helping us become a progressive and prosperous society, have also contributed in breaking the various prejudices and stereotypes attached to categorizing work according to the sex. These virtuous legacy holders have not only left a visionary impact on the young minds but also have helped a few of them to achieve their dream. In the 21st century with the oncoming of many revolutionary changes, breaking gender barriers was a highly anticipated evolutionary change. We are still singing glory songs of the famed queen of Jhansi Rani Laxmibai in the post-colonial era who did not submit to British authority and fought to save her kingdom. She was one of the few brave hearts who could not be subjugated by male dominance. It was uncustomary during those times for a woman to rule a kingdom. When talking of female rulers during the colonial times, one cannot miss mentioning Razia Sultana the valorous Queen of Delhi sultanate and who is notable for being the first female Muslim ruler of the Indian subcontinent. The UN also has incorporated this changing scenario in its selection for possible women candidates for the post of general secretary a post traditionally held by men. In this way, the UN which is very active and vocal in its agenda for abolishing the gender disparity has successfully helped pinpoint the existing problems in the society. The Air Force has taken a major stride towards achieving gender parity by allowing women in combat roles. “Indian Air force (IAF) ensures equal opportunities are given to all men and women” (as published by Hindustan Times). Even in the medical field where a registered nurse was seen as an occupation solely for women to pursue, it is now becoming a common trend for even men to work as registered nurses. Women in the past, who were forced to confine themselves in the house and take care of the children have turned the tables so drastically that now women functioning in the economy have become a crucial part in managing the market economy. Similarly bonding with the baby, engaging with one’s child has also improved the father-child relationships over the world. This has proven effective in may manners and now even men are engaging in babysitting duties. World-renowned chefs like Gordan Ramsey, Sanjeev Kapoor make us realize that men actually possess culinary skills and can work just fine without burning the house down. These success stories help us realize however small our dreams may be, they still are worth achieving.