A RED LETTER DAY 1 JAN2019 - LINING UP FOR WOMEN'S EMANCIPATION - Government of Kerala
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LINING UP FOR WOMEN’S EMANCIPATION A TRIUMPH OF PENKOOTTU
` 12/- 2019 JANUARY 01
1
1 JAN2019
A RED LETTER DAY
www.prd.kerala.gov.in
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kerala calling MARCH 20182019
JANUARY www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling
editorial
DISPLAYING THE POWER OF WOMEN
“WHEN MEN ARE OPPRESSED, IT’S A TRAGEDY. WHEN WOMEN ARE OPPRESSED, IT’S TRADITION.”
Letty Cottin Pogrebin, American author
The first day of the first month of 2019 was unlike any other New Year day for Kerala. It scripted a new
history by lining up lakhs of women from Kasargod in the North to Thiruvananthapuram in the South
for erecting the Women’s Wall. The Wall showcased the power of women in building up a modern
society devoid of gender inequality and patriarchal domination. For generations to come, January 1,
2019 will be remembered as a red letter day.
Our State is founded upon the strong pillars of Renaissance values that have been achieved through
unabated fights and struggles. There was a time in history when Kerala was shrouded in enormous
darkness. Women had been denied the basic rights and lowered to the standing that even beasts
could not tolerate. History of Kerala Renaissance is also the history of numerous resistances and
struggles by many a brave woman. They shouldered with men of progressive minds, shattered the
shackles of patriarchy and paved the right path for Kerala to tread on a civilised system.
It is quite unfortunate that the pillars of Renaissance values are at peril. Divisive, fascist and right 3
wing forces want to take Kerala back into the era of murky darkness. They want women to be chained
again in patriarchal domination and focussing on this misanthropic and misogynistic aim, heinous
acts are being carried out.
This is the time we have to stay united. Under no circumstances, we cannot allow these forces seep
into the cultural fabric of our State. As a strong warning against these malignant forces, the women
in Kerala formed the Women’s wall with the whole- hearted participation of all progressive forces.
Our women have already stamped their presence in various fields and been recognised globally. Of
late, worth mentioning is the name of Viji P aka Viji Penkootu. She strolled her way into BBC‘s list of
Hundred most influential women. She was ranked 73rd. It was in recognition for her tenacious effort
for the rights of women in the unorganized sector. Her relentless struggle bore fruit after the state
government ruled in favour of the workers, granting them the freedom to sit at work, after which Viji
and her Penkootu became famous across Kerala.
2018 saw two most coveted awards in India come to Kerala. Malayalam poet S. Ramesan Nair and
Indian English writer Aneez Salim bagged the Kendra Sahithya Academy Awards. Salim is the fourth
Malayalam author to win in the English category so far.
The year ahead is a challenging one. We are in full swing to build a new Kerala. With a resolute and
visionary Chief Minister at the helm, there is no doubt that the Nava Keralam is not a distant dream.
T.V. SUBHASH I A S
Editor in Chief
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala calling
JANUARY 2018
Volume 39 Number 03
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF T V Subhash IAS CO ORDINATING EDITOR P S Rajasekharan DEPUTY EDITOR IN CHIEF K P Saritha
EDITOR K S Sailendran
ASSISTANT EDITOR C Rajesh ASSISTANT INFORMATION OFFICER Anchitha A COVER ILLUSTRATION V S Prakash
CIRCULATION Sunil Hassan DESIGN & LAYOUT AnilRaj anilraj.designer@gmail.com PRINTING Orange Printers Pvt Ltd.,Thiruvananthapuram
inSide
06 THE WALL OF
RESISTANCE
10 LINING UP
FOR WOMEN’S
EMANCIPATION
Prof. Suja Susan George
14 PHENOMENAL WOMEN OF
KERALA RENAISSANCE.
Thanuja Bhattathiri
20 A SHARED
SISYPHEAN BURDEN
4 Annu Mathew
24 A TRIUMPH
OF PENKOOTTU
Aparna S R
26 SMASHING THE STIGMA
SURROUNDING
MENSTRUATION
Balagopal
EDITORIAL MATERIALS Responses may be sent to mail:
Articles/features appearing in this magazine are either commisioned or assigned. keralacalling@gmail.com
Neverthless, other articles are also welcome. A maximum of 750 wordage is appreciated.
Such items should be addressed to
The Editor,
kerala Kerala Calling,
calling JANUARY First2019
Floor, Secretariat Annexe, Thiruvananthapuram Pin 695001 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling
expressed in the articles published in Kerala Calling are not,
necessarily, those of the government. Kerala Calling welcomes free
expression of divergent views and exchange of ideas through its pages.
30 Interview with
Justice K.T.Thomas (Rtd.)
Sini K Thomas
34 UNEARTHING
THE PAST
Dr.V.Sathish
Dr. P. Jinimon
40 RICHLY DESERVED
KHYRUNNISA A.
44 ‘Libraries Are
My Universities’
Anees Salim / Sabin Iqbal 5
46 KERALA
LOK AYUKTA TURNS 20
Zacharia Mathew
48 SREE SHANKAR
JUMPS INTO HISTORY
Sanil P.Thomas
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keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala calling
WOMEN’S WALL
Upholding gender equality: Women’s wall in Thiruvananthapuram
THE WALL OF
RESISTANCE
6
The Women’s wall, built up across Kerala was a strong
warning against patriarchal mindset
T
hey came in small numbers first. Then it grew into small gatherings. Slowly, these gatherings of
resolute women transformed into an uncontrollable flow. By 4 in the evening, on the New Year
day, the 620 km stretch starting from Kasargod in the North to Thiruvananthapuram in the south
witnessed one of the strongest display of women’s power. The women’s wall was formed by lakhs
of women. A strong warning against gender inequality and asserting the responsibility of safeguarding
renaissance values.
Women from all walks of life participated in the forming of the wall as a political counter to the right
wing fascist forces that try to take Kerala back into the dark ages and bring back misogynistic and
misanthropic customs and practices.
Senior women, homemakers, women clad in hijabs, lawyers, transwomen, actors, artists, doctors,
teachers, students, authors, civil servants, unskilled workers, government employees, members of social
organizations assembled along the national highways. They lined up at 4 pm to form a human wall which
actually became a human fort eventually.
The programme ended with a joint pledge to harness the power of renaissance principles to insulate
society against fascist forces sought to push Kerala back to the dark ages of casteism and discriminatory
religious practices.
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling
7 Honouring the Liberator: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan garlanding the statue of Ayyankali in connection with the women’s wall in Thiruvananthapuram keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala calling
WOMEN’S WALL
8
Brinda Karat addresses the gathering in Thiruvananthapuram
@ Pathanamthitta @ Kasargod
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling
9
@Malappuram
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala calling
WOMEN’S EMANCIPATION Prof. Suja Susan George Director of the Malayalam Mission, Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala
10
LINING UP FOR
WOMEN’S
EMANCIPATION
“One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.”
Simone de Beauvoir, The Second Sex
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingThe women’s wall is a declaration
by Kerala women and trans-women
asserting their constitutionally
sanctioned rights. It is a tribute to and
reiteration of the crucial role played by
women in Kerala Renaissance and also
in rebuilding Kerala. Through this wall,
the women are rejecting the communal
subversive forces that aim to polarize the
secular democratic society of Kerala.
wall, the women are rejecting the emancipation. Our National and
communal subversive forces that aim Renaissance Movements have both
to polarize the secular democratic produced hundreds of hero’s and
society of Kerala. heroines, equal and more to the
celebrated ones. Even the prosperous
The idea of building a women’s
modern Kerala society owes its
wall germinated during the weekly
identity to the hundreds of nurses
interactive television programme of
and other professional women, who
the Chief Minister, Naam Munnoottu.
braved to migrate to territories 11
The topic of discussion was the
uncharted by the Malayali Diaspora
communal forces and fringe
in search of livelihood. The Wall is a
elements who threatened the
reminder of the role our women have
secular democratic fabric of Kerala
played in the construction of our
society. Punnala Sreekumar, the
present and future.
leader of Kerala Pulaya Maha Sabha,
a Dalit-empowerment organization, Women from all walks of life have
posed a question to the CM. He come out in support of the women’s
asked whether the government would wall. A joint statement was issued by
join hands with the organisations prominent women who had excelled
with a renaissance heritage, if they various spheres of life, embracing
A
demonstrate against the divisive the cause of the Women’s Wall
s the New Year Day, 2019 forces and declare their commitment and women emancipation. Dr. M.
drew to an end; the streets to the secular cause. The CM, without Leelavathi, Parvathy Thiruvoth, Lida
of Kerala witnessed hesitation, gave his word that the Jacob IAS, PK Medhini are some of
a glorious tribute to government would stand by them in the names in the 220-member strong
the cause of women this progressive cause. A meeting signatory list. The statement reads:
emancipation. Tens of thousands of of non-partisan organizations with a
women and trans-women lined up the “The state of Kerala is all set to
renaissance heritage was convened
National Highways stretching from create yet another milestone in its
immediately, and the idea evolved to
Kasargod to Thiruvananthapuram, as long history of women empowerment.
build a women’s wall across the state.
part of the Women’s Wall of Kerala. We are creating a 620 kilometre
The Navodhana Moolya Samrakshana
long Womens’ Wall, stretching from
The women’s wall is a declaration Samithi, along with the Government
Kasargod to Thiruvananthapuram, on 1
by Kerala women and trans-women of Kerala and other organizations are
January, 2019. Yes, the Wall we create
asserting their constitutionally confident of constructing a historical
on the New Year Day will be yet another
sanctioned rights. It is a tribute to and wall on January 1, 2019. Thus, the
manifestation and declaration of
reiteration of the crucial role played Great Wall of Kerala was born.
women’s right to equality and freedom.
by women in Kerala Renaissance and Kerala has had a long history of
also in rebuilding Kerala. Through this The Wall demands the preservation
embracing the cause of women
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingWOMEN’S EMANCIPATION
of those principles and values of who stand for social empowerment The spirit of Kerala women is the
renaissance - those which laid the would naturally find themselves fitting spirit of Nangeli, the myth. It is a spirit
foundation for the process of democ- in to Kerala’s Great Wall. that chopped off her breasts and
ratisation of Kerala. attained martyrdom, in protest of an
The Wall puts forth the broad vision
evil tax-regime. It is a valiant spirit of a
The Wall is a constructive intervention of a ‘NavaKeralam’ based on equality
warrior, who prefers death to life sans
to establish the Constitutional and social justice. It is a giant leap
freedom. And the Great Women’s
principle of equality for everyone forward. Women have taken it to their
Wall of Kerala is a glorious, vibrant,
regardless of gender. hearts. Today we don’t remember the
politically potent testimonial to that
names of those who opposed social
We all are humans - we are one: this spirit.
progress. We cherish the names
idea put forward by the renaissance
of those who led the struggle for
movement helped us secure high
progress. That’s how history works.
scores in women’s health and
Yes, the Wall reminds us of the role
education in the social development
played by women in the renaissance
index. Along with Sree Narayana Guru,
movement in Kerala, the role women
Ayyankali, Chattambi Swami, Vakkom
should play in rebuilding Kerala, need
Abdul Khader Moulavi and Poikayil
for dedicating themselves to the fight
Yohannan, women leaders including
against subversive and communal
Dakshayani Velayudhan, Kaalikkutti
forces that are trying to polarize Kerala
Aashatti, Sainaba ( Malabar Revolt),
society. This intervention is the need
Annie Mascrene, K Devayani, Haleema
of the hour. As the true heirs to Kerala
Beevi, Parvathi Nenmenimangalam,
Renaissance, and as citizens aware of
Arya Pallam, Parvathi Ayyappan also
the constitutionally protected secular,
played a crucial role in advancing the
democratic values, let us come
renaissance ideals of freedom and
together in putting up the Wall. Let us
equality. The untiring efforts of Kerala
join hands with the woman of Kerala in
women inside their houses, workplaces
building the Women’s Wall.”
and at the forefront of social and
political struggles have contributed These women, and lakhs more like
immensely in the construction of the them, understand the crucial need of
modern Kerala society. gender justice, as part of the greater
cause of social justice for a modern
Unfortunately, even today, women
12 society. Women are in the first line
face injustice and discrimination. There
of casualty, whenever there is a
are people who still hold the view
movement against the progressive
that no matter what the Constitution
path of the society. Besides that,
and the laws of our country say,
they are also used as human shield
women deserve to be discriminated
by the subversive forces in their
against, oppressed and subjected to
communal, patriarchal agenda. This
all regressive practices. Women are
dialectics is very evident in the recent
used as pawns in advancing retrograde
developments Kerala witnessed,
tendencies which are aimed at taking
where women were used by communal
Kerala back to the pre-enlightenment
forces to declare themselves less
days. The Wall represents the
than men. A wave of resistance to
blockade women put up to resist these
this regressive, fatal trend should also
kind of nefarious efforts.
come from women themselves.
No, it is not a ‘one-issue’ Wall. It is also
Through the Women’s Wall, our women
the response of women against the
are staking their claim to equality
communal and subversive tendencies
and freedom, as granted by the
visible in the society in various forms
Constitution of India. They declare
and hues. Societies achieve progress
that they fear no communal, divisive,
through continuous and persistent
subversive elements. They refuse to
struggles, awareness campaigns,
accept meekly the diktats of powers
etc. The Wall declares that Kerala
that be, who command that women
will continue to stay in the path of
are less equal. They do not plan to
progress by ensuring dignity, equal
bow down and accept their fate, when
rights and self-respect for women -
the communal harmony of the state
yes, it is a Wall of Pride.
is being held ransom by the few. They
Trans-women are also a part of the know that “ye are many – they are
Wall. Regardless of gender, anyone can few.”, and they stand in line to “rise like
endorse the idea of the Wall. Those the lions after slumber”.
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingThe spirit of Kerala women is the spirit of Nangeli, the myth.
It is a spirit that chopped off her breasts and attained
martyrdom, in protest of an evil tax-regime. It is a valiant
spirit of a warrior, who prefers death to life sans freedom.
And the Great Women’s Wall of Kerala is a glorious, vibrant,
politically potent testimonial to that spirit.
13
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingTHE POWER OF WOMEN Thanuja Bhattathiri Renowned Writer
14
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingThe women in every caste would have their own stories to tell
about the slavery and discrimination they faced behind the
closed doors, and in and outside the home. They had no voice
to speak out. Even the women in the affluent Savarna families
had stories of discrimination and suppression of their desires.
Savarna and Avarna women experienced subjugation and
repression, and were not allowed the privilege of speech, or even
a mind of their own. They were entangled in the labyrinths of
societal norms.
PHENOMENAL WOMEN OF KERALA
RENAISSANCE
The Renaissance saw the emergence of many women coming out of closed doors in which they
were supposed to be in for eternity. They broke the shackles they were chained to and scripted
a new chapter for women to come
15
T
he ‘Woman wall’ was literally an has surely helped the present day every caste would have their own
ideological rebellion- a reality women to empower themselves. stories to tell about the slavery and
check nonetheless. It gave a discrimination they faced behind the
Renaissance in Kerala had
sense of direction and inspired closed doors, and in and outside the
always been a quest for societal
the women of Kerala. Hundreds of home. They had no voice to speak
transformation. If a question arises
thousands of women stood firm as a out. Even the women in the affluent
on what Renaissance has helped
wall to depict the self respect they Savarna families had stories of
achieve, our answer would be ‘us -
deserve- the womanhood they take discrimination and suppression of
the present day women’. Educated
pride in. Many of them hardly knew their desires. Savarna and Avarna
and employed women who are
what renaissance actually was, but women experienced subjugation and
liberated in every sense; who enjoy
they simply harnessed the courage repression, and were not allowed the
the freedom to speak their mind and
to emulate their predecessors to privilege of speech, or even a mind
travel any path they choose. How
prevail over the demons imposed of their own. They were entangled in
this was made possible? It was far
upon them by the society. After all, the labyrinths of societal norms.
from a cake walk. Before I dive into
it is the same spirit that runs in all
this topic further, I urge everyone to In 1929, V. T. Bhattathirippad staged
of them.
slow down a bit and look back at the his revolutionary drama ‘Adukkalayil
The greatest contribution by the state of women in the past. Ninnu Arangathekku’ (‘From the
first renaissance to the present day Kitchen to the Stage’) and literally
The woman in the past lived like
movement is the gift of power and started the transformation spree in
a slave for centuries in a society
the ability to take firm decisions. Brahmin community. One thing led
largely controlled by the men who
What an era it was! An era of to another and brought about many
enjoyed the dictatorship, shaped
strength, rebellion, questioning changes in society like the change
by the socio-cultural norms
and pride; and a wave from that era in attire, education and freedom
prevailing back then. The women in
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingTHE POWER OF WOMEN
16
of women. Joint family system only by the empowerment of their A ban on entry to Gurvayoor temple
ceased to have the influence it women. It led to the first ever widow was issued by the Samoothiri King
once held. Most importantly, many marriage in Kerala. MRB married to 42 Brahmins who attended the
puritans realised that development Umadevi Antharjanam, facing a lot wedding ceremony. Soon, VT’s sister
in their community was possible of opposition from the community. in law Priyadatta Antharjanam was
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingIndustrial revolution also
had its effect on the state
of affairs. Women who
started working in factories
were different from the
farmer women. When they
started to raise their voice
for their rights, they were
jailed initially. But when
the number of protesters
crossed thousands, the
authorities had to soften
their attitude. History bears
testimony to this.
Lalithambika Antharjanam
married to a renowned Communist seldom enjoyed any advantage out the same community. The Aphans
Kallatt Krishnan who hailed from a of this system. Even when there was in the Namboothiri clan, who had
so called ‘lower-caste’ community. a woman apparently at the helm of no family or property to call their
There were even attempts to murder own, caused havoc in the Brahmin
VT. Another common practice was community.
to give away Brahmin girls from
Another incident which fuelled
poor families to Brahmins from
the movement was the revolution 17
faraway lands. The fate of those
orchestrated by the women
girls was hardly known after they
from the Channaar community
were married off. Lalithambika
in southern Kerala. It was the
Antharjanam has written about
period of British reign in India
many such miserable lives in her
and Kerala already had a good
works. She wrote “The harems of
number of Christians back then.
Brahmin families were crowded with
The Channaar women who were
old maidens and young widows and
converted to Christianity directly
was filled with tears and blood”. In
by the British were asked to dress
the midst of all these events, some
up properly before they entered
Brahmin women attended public
the Church. They were allowed
meetings under the leadership of
to wear only the traditional attire
Parvathi Nenmenimangalam and Arya
of Christian women ‘Chatta and
Pallath. Their stampede of social
Mundu’. But their decision to
progress shattered the shackles VT Bhattathirippad
emulate Nair women and have
of oppression by their families and
a ‘Melmundu’ (upper cloth that
puritans, and they overcame the affairs in a family, the actual steering
was put over the bosom) led to
fear of being outcast from their was in the hands of her uncle or
serious repercussions from the
communities. brother. Even their marriage was for
Nair community. The upper cloths
the common good of the family, not
The situation of women in Nair of many women were snatched
by her choice. They were bound to
families was unfortunately not much and torn away. It led to the famous
obey the orders of the men in their
different either. It is a common ‘Maaru Marakkal Samaram/Mel
family. The norms prevalent in the
misconception that Nair women Mundu Samaram (Upper cloth revolt
society had their invisible chains
enjoyed all sorts of privileges and or Channar Revolt of 1813-1859).
around the women.
freedom back then. The matrilineal It was perhaps the first rebellion
system of inheritance gave them The injustices prevalent in a by women for the freedom of right
some wealth, authority and right particular community frequently lead over their own bodies. It can be
to live in their own homes. But they to the rise of revolutionaries from rightfully called the first step in the
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingTHE POWER OF WOMEN
reformation in the lives of women in system was prevalent. People from Ernakulathappan (deity in Ernakulam
Kerala. these communities were denied the temple) and it was a huge step
right to cover their bodies below the forward. Then it was the turn of the
Industrial revolution also had its
knees and above their waists; there royal women in Thripunithura who
effect on the state of affairs.
was also restriction on their right of followed suit bowing to Sreepoor-
Women who started working in
speech. Not everyone was allowed nathrayeesan (deity in Thripunithura
factories were different from the
to wear jewellery of their choice, temple) covering their breasts.
farmer women. When they started
not everyone had the privilege of
to raise their voice for their rights, The road in front of the Paliyam
education. In short, there were quite
they were jailed initially. But when temple and Paliyam Palace were
a number of restrictions imposed
the number of protesters crossed inaccessible for the public. A few
upon them.
thousands, the authorities had to women under the leadership of
soften their attitude. History bears The discrimination extended to Arya Pallath revolted against this.
testimony to this. places of worship also. Women from The group had representation from
all communities were not permitted Kodungalloor Palace also. Police
It was a period when the people
to cover their bosom in front of manhandled them, dragged them out
from the ‘lower caste’ were
deities. But in spite of severe and put many of them under house
considered untouchables, the slave
opposition, Ambadi Kartyayani Amma arrest. But the revolt continued.
trade was rampant, and Devadasi
covered her breats as she bowed
Many puritans realised that development in their community was
possible only by the empowerment of their women. It led to the first
ever widow marriage in Kerala.
18
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingThe women from lower caste were
allowed to wear only jewellery made
from stones and broken glass
pieces as a symbol of their slavery.
When they decided to forgo the
custom, thousands were forced
to leave their homes due to attack
from the aristocrats. In 1915, under
the leadership of Sri Ayyan Kali,
thousands of lower caste women
broke away their stone jewellery. It
was a revolutionary step. A lower
caste girl - Panchami was enrolled
to a school in Ooruttambalam in
Trivandrum, which led to the fury
of conservatives who attacked
the school and burned the bench
which the girl had used. Then
Ayyan Kali proclaimed “If you don’t
let our children study, we will not
harvest your fields”. Finally, the
authorities had to heed to these
requests. In 1946, conservatives
even spit on the faces of Pulaya
Mahasabha women activists, but all
their misguided efforts ultimately
failed to stop the activists from
continuing their work.
We have come a long way from
there where we speak about
democracy and equality. As women
19
chose education and employment,
their lives took a sharp turn, which
in turn led to their present day
equality and freedom. Trade-farmer
movements, independence
movement, missionaries’ activities,
modern day education, Public
Library movement etc. helped to
uproot the societal injustices.
No description on renaissance
is complete without mentioning
three women. They were the three
Malayali women among the 15 women in all communities. She fought for marginalized communities. Religion
in the Constitutional Assembly the rights of all women; she was part played a major role in this domination.
of India. They were Dakshayani of the body forming the laws on this. But women with self respect always
Velayudhan, Ammu Swaminathan and When it was time for her marriage she rose above these adversities.
Annie Mascarene. had a demand. “My husband should No one has the right to say that
not ask me where I am going and women are impure. Women are the
Dakshayani Velayudhan was from when I am going to come back”. This best guardians of their own pride.
the Pulaya community. She was the was not for anything discreet, but Renaissance is a new vision, a new
first graduate from her community. she wanted to declare that women way of life, a new dream, a new era
Conservatives pelted stones at her can do whatever men could. This and a new desire. It is a giant leap. It
when she went to teach at schools. was her motto when she worked for is the need of the hour. Women have
But this did not stop her from her the empowerment and equality of to dare to do this giant leap. The age
mission. women. old adage says “look before you leap”
Ammu Swaminathan hailed from but it is the impulsive leapers among
Society has always tried to impose
a royal family. But she committed women who have always brought
restrictions on women and other
herself to the betterment of women about the changes in the society.
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingGENDER Annu Mathew Senior Sub-editor, Times of India
20
A SHARED
SISYPHEAN
BURDEN
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingIt becomes important to raise our
daughters as ones that question
everything, not acquiesce and submit. It
becomes equally important to teach our
sons to value the opposite gender and
their opinions and insights, not summarily
dismiss them out of habit.
T
he emotional, sexual, and important to teach our sons to
psychological stereotyping value the opposite gender and their
of females begins when opinions and insights, not summarily
the doctor says, “It’s a girl,” dismiss them out of habit.
said Shirley Chisholm, the
Instead, we raise our girls to be tame,
long-forgotten trailblazer who was the
genteel ladies, preening and pruning
first African American woman elected
them for the marriage market from
to the US Congress and the first
Day 1. And in the bargain we lose out
ever black candidate for to run for
on what could have been a generation
US presidency back in 1972 when
of smart women with a scientific
Barack Obama was still in school.
temper who dare to dream, are leaders
Unfortunately for us females, forty-six
ready to befriend not just the sunlit
years later, her words not only ring
hours, but the moonlit ones too.
true, but the whole idea is vigorously
enforced and zealously practised. Even “progressive” parents who raise
their girls to be smart, do not forget
Chisholm’s understanding of human
to imbibe “culture” and “decency”
nature did not just stop at diagnosis
in them. Smoking sons are lovingly
of the malaise that seemed to plague
chided – “after all, their masculinity
women, she had also devised a
can’t be tamed beyond a point”.
solution. No stranger to the constant 21
Smoking daughters unleash a scandal.
shutting out of female folk and their
No, it’s not about equating smoking
voices in the political sphere ( it will
with liberation, but the idea that
be pertinent here to remember that
women can be trusted to take a call
just a few days ago Jaya Bachchan
on what they want to do. Decisions
and other women MPs in Rajya Sabha
always being made for them instead
pointed out that the ruling party has
of by them and “wants” generally not
enough numbers in the Lok Sabha, but
even being associated with women,
is still dragging its feet when it comes
unless it is for gold or clothes or, sigh,
to passing the women’s reservation
a good husband –tropes they seem to
bill – a news which got little coverage
be stuck with.
because nobody thought it mattered),
Chisholm once famously said: “If they Sons get more leeway when it comes
don’t give you a seat at the table, to talking about their girlfriends or
bring a folding chair.” If there’s no path, airing grievances on their crushes,
make one. unreciprocated love. Daughters are
generally meant to be sexless beings.
Her words seem deceptively simple,
Really? By hoodwinking ourselves
but that’s about the sum of it. As
with such ideas, we lose out on really
women we need to realise early on
knowing them as individuals.
that we must push ourselves in if we
wish to gain access. Push, push, push. In fact, the onus of tradition, culture,
Push the boundaries, the limits. Push purity and virginity are supposed
the curfew a bit by bit. Because the to be solely borne by our women –
moment we give in is also the moment meekly too at that. Advocates of
we give up. progress are branded feminichis in
what is inarguably an attempt to
This is why it becomes important
delegitimise women’s voices. Female
to raise our daughters as ones that
sexual liberation is seen as a threat
question everything, not acquiesce
to sanskar, to “everything that defines
and submit. It becomes equally
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingGENDER
Nurtured all their lives by patriarchy our
women continue to parrot ideas that they have
all along been taught, willing themselves to
believe, perpetuate and uphold it by all means.
Uncannily reminiscent of Stockholm syndrome.
us” and various other balderdash, scrutinised or checking oneself or
when in reality the only thing it seems without being subject to questioning.
to really threaten is male superego. For spontaneity comes with a beauty
of its own in an unmeasured simplicity,
Trammels of religion, culture and
unhindered openness. The charm of
social mores confine themselves
an unselfconscious peck on the lips,
to the male of the species. And like
an uninhibited hug, breaking into an
the hapless (but virtuous) daugh-
impromptu dance. Being ourselves.
ters-in-law of primetime serials,
The fundamentals, if you will. We are
women are expected to gulp down
all losing out on them. Our men, our
these Sisyphean loads without as
women. Essentially then, the fetters
much as gagging on them. Our tragedy
on womankind restrict men too. From
is that most of us do just that.
truly being. Then it emerges that this
Nurtured all their lives by patriarchy Sisyphean burden is shared by man –
our women continue to parrot ideas heaving and pushing up the proverbial
that they have all along been taught, gargantuan rock alongside the woman.
willing themselves to believe, The man trapped in his own misin-
perpetuate and uphold it by all means. terpretations of existence, ignoring
Uncannily reminiscent of Stockholm the truth or preventing himself from
22 Syndrome. It is not wrong that women realising it.
are seen as mothers, the problem
Tagore’s wise words seem heavier
arises when they are only allowed to
with meaning now:
take up the role of mothers or when
dictates of society force them to Freedom from fear is the freedom
bury other aspirations and be denied I claim for you my motherland!
rightful dues. Freedom from the burden of the ages,
bending your head,
Space and time too are gendered,
breaking your back, blinding your eyes
come to think of it. Even the “free”
to the beckoning
women among us are essentially
call of the future;
confined. Restricted by notions of
Freedom from the shackles of
right and wrong time, space. “Why did
slumber wherewith
you go out at this hour?” “What were
you fasten yourself in night’s stillness,
you doing there among men?” And
mistrusting the star that speaks of
then there is the relentless onslaught
truth’s adventurous paths;
on this other space, the mind space
freedom from the anarchy of destiny
(?) “She guffaws like a man.” “Why
whole sails are weakly yielded to the
is she so loud?” Free expression of
blind uncertain winds,
oneself, apparently, is something
and the helm to a hand ever rigid and
many of us are still not entitled to.
cold as death.
Let’s not even go into women’s right
Freedom from the insult of dwelling in
to wear the clothes that they want to.
a puppet’s world,
In all these instances, women where movements are started
basically lose out on spontaneity. The through brainless wires,
natural way in which we may probably repeated through mindless habits,
have expressed ourselves. The ability where figures wait with patience and
to talk, walk, laugh, to go about one’s obedience for the
business without constantly being master of show,
to be stirred into a mimicry of life.
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling23 keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala calling
INFLUENTIAL WOMEN Aparna S R Information Assistant, I&PRD
The plight of women who would not
drink water while at work because
they couldn’t take a toilet break and
of those who would remorsefully
collect their urine in plastic bottles
and take it home, was an eye opener.
24
A TRIUMPH OF
PENKOOTTU
Viji ‘Penkoottu’ has been included in the BBC’s list of Hundred Most
Influential Women across the world. She achieved this envious status
through her relentless fights for the rights of women.
H
er parents were workers. After vicious circle. This harrowing experience as a consequence the ‘Assanghatitha
a day’s tiring labour her mother from her childhood flared up a fighting Meghala Thozhilali Union’ (AMTU)
was greeted by household spirit in her. She set out to make people emerged.
chores and an abusive husband. treat women as human beings. The
Thus fifty year old P.Viji or Viji Penkoottu
She would spit blood but still continue fire in her intensified as years went by
strolled her way into BBC‘s list of
with the routine and life went on in a and in 2009’Penkoot’ was formed and
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingHer relentless struggle bore fruit after the
state government ruled in favour of the
workers, granting them the freedom to sit
at work, after which Viji and her ‘Penkootu’
became famous across Kerala
E-toilets were introduced in Kozhikkode.
In 2013 she led the fight against the
closure of Coupen Mall. During the
course of their four day struggle that
forced the Mall Manager to remain
locked indoors it was rendered that
none of the 18 women and 12 men who
worked there had the right to sit. In the
end the organizers were forced to meet
the workers demands. On May 1, 2014
Viji led a group of women for a unique
protest along the Mittayi Theruvu. They
carried chairs, symbolizing the right to
sit. This novel protest soon spread to
other districts. Her relentless struggle
bore fruit after the state government
ruled in favour of the workers, granting
them the freedom to sit at work, after
which Viji and her ‘Penkootu’ became
famous across Kerala. In association
with Social Activist Ajitha of ‘Anweshi’
25
gained more power. Today ‘Vijichechi’
is a source of inspiration and support
for the numerous women in the
unorganized sector.
Now she is pursuing a case of a
Hundred most influential women. She
young girl who ate watermelon during
was ranked 73rd. It was in recognition
fast and was expelled from work as
for her tenacious effort for the rights
a result. Viji and friends were also a
of women in the unorganized sector.
part of the women’s wall that was
A civilized community would find it
organized across Kerala. “No women
different to grasp that she had to fight
should be disregarded because she
for basic rights such as the freedom
menstruates” Viji says. “The minister
to sit during free time at work and
has asked the labour officers look
permission to take even toilet break.
into the right of labours to sit at
Having worked at a tailoring shop at the
work. I am happy to understand that
‘Mittayi Theruvu’ in Kozhikkode since
inspections are going on in shops with
2005 Viji had personally experienced
regard to this. I will ensure that this
the problems.
change is implemented. Equal pay,
The plight of women who would not eight hours work – eight hours rest
drink water while at work because they must be implemented in the case of
couldn’t take a toilet break and of those women workers as well. Viji says gender
who would remorsefully collect their equality must begin from the kitchen.
urine in plastic bottles and take it home, She proudly points to her family, where
was an eye opener. she, her husband, son and daughter all
take part in household work. Husband
Her first strike was for public toilets
is a tailor. Only when men and women
for women. Viji and fellow workers
share their household duties will women
conducted a hunger strike in front of
be truly treated as human beings. Until
the home of VVES leader. As a result
then I will continue my fight.”
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingINFLUENTIAL WOMEN Balagopal former Sub Editor- Times of Oman and Editor of www.ukmalayalee.com
26
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingAs a schoolgirl Amika was horrified that a natural,
biological function was denying girls their right
to an equal education thus compromising their
academic attainment and to add to all this it was the
government’s silence on the issue which prompted
her to start the campaign. In December 2017, Amika
held the #FreePeriods protest outside Downing Street
which was attended by over 2,000 young people.
SMASHING
THE STIGMA
SURROUNDING MENSTRUATION
The 17 year old Amika, a Malayali Girl in the United Kingdom, 27
is on the campaign to ensure that no girl child should miss
school due to them being unable to afford menstrual
products and also to smash the stigma surrounding
menstruation
W
hen the word ‘menstruation or periods’ is so much trending in
Kerala, a Malayali teenage girl in the United Kingdom is on the
campaign to ensure that no girl child should miss school due
to them being unable to afford menstrual products and also to
smash the stigma surrounding menstruation.
In 2017 at the age of 17, Amika George, a student at Cambridge University,
started #FreePeriods after learning that girls in the United Kingdom are
routinely missing school because of period poverty - lack of access to
sanitary products due to financial restraints.
As a schoolgirl Amika was horrified that a natural, biological function was
denying girls their right to an equal education thus compromising their
academic attainment and to add to all this it was the government’s silence
on the issue which prompted her to start the campaign. In December
2017, Amika held the #FreePeriods protest outside Downing Street which
was attended by over 2,000 young people. Following this, Amika began
the #FreePeriods petition, which now has hit more than 210,000 and is
rising. Although the petition is to get the government doing what they
have to, #FreePeriods has now become a movement where hundreds of
thousands of people agree with the cause. Amika’s aim is to keep the heat
on with the #FreePeriods campaign to raise awareness of period poverty and
to make people to talk about menstruation and feel at ease with it in the UK
and globally.
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingINFLUENTIAL WOMEN
Amika had several meetings
with MPs and Lords in
Westminster about how
to tackle period poverty.
“All the ministers I’ve had
meetings with have been
really supportive but the
Conservative government has
been really slow to reply. My
own MP sent me a letter with
the usual strapline saying that
the onus is on schools to end
period poverty. But we know
schools are facing a huge
funding crisis and this just
isn’t acceptable”, says Amika.
Amika has been featured in a the ministers I’ve had meetings with
number of national and international have been really supportive but the
publications and recipient of several Conservative government has been
global awards and recognitions and really slow to reply. My own MP sent
many awards are awaited in the year me a letter with the usual strapline
2019 for her works towards this saying that the onus is on schools
cause is trending within the British to end period poverty. But we know
28
media. schools are facing a huge funding
crisis and this just isn’t acceptable”,
New Phase in 2019
says Amika.
In 2019 Amika launched the next
Amika has worked hard to persuade
phase of the campaign, a new legal
major political parties to pledge
campaign which is calling on the UK
to address period poverty in their
government to provide free menstrual
manifestos. “The Conservatives are
products in all schools and colleges. It
the only party to refuse to do so,
is the first of its kind in England, which
and this is discouraging. Labour, The
calls for the government to provide
Liberal Democrats, The Green Party
designated funding for free provision
and the Women’s Equality Party all
of menstrual products in all schools
pledged to tackle period poverty if
and colleges for every child that
they come into power. Many political poverty. Facebook also invited
needs them. The campaign launches
parties are now acknowledging that me to Washington in March of last
with a Crowdfunding drive to raise
period poverty is hugely damaging because they were keen to hear about
funds, with a requirement that £10k
issue and they want to invest in the Free Periods. It’s good to see large
must be raised in 30 days for any of
future of young people by making sure corporations get behind campaigns
the pledges to be collected.
that girls stay in school, and that’s such as FreePeriods. I would also
“The right to an education is one of really important”, says Amika say that I’m lucky enough to have
our fundamental human rights, and FreePeriods featured in a multitude of
Support from UN and Facebook
we believe that under the Equality different media. Almost every national
Act, the government has a legal duty Many organisations, including the newspaper has covered the campaign
to ensure that all children have equal United Nations, have been vocal in and have been really supportive”, says
access to education,” says Amika. their support of the Free Periods. Amika.
“When I was invited to New York, I
Meeting with Politicians Stigma around menstruation
was really encouraged when I visited
Amika had several meetings with the UN for the General Assembly Amika’s next main intention is to
MPs and Lords in Westminster about that so much focus was given to smash the stigma surrounding
how to tackle period poverty. “All ending global issues such as period
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling29
menstruation. Amika says: “The taboo perception of periods to be able to Court, and the 620km chain formed
means that girls are reluctant to talk achieve true gender equality. by millions of incredible women, for
about period poverty, and it becomes me, highlight power of women coming
Sabarimala and gender equality
a silent issue, shrouded in secrecy together to stand up for gender
and shame. Part of my campaign is to According to Amika Malayalis in equality and make it clear that women
change that, to reframe the way we general are very progressive in their deserves equal treatment and rights”.
perceive menstruation and to teach attitudes towards gender equality
Family
young girls that we should be talking on the whole. According to her the
more openly about them. I would inheritance of property rights by Amika George is daughter of Kishore
love to see girls across the globe daughters and the model of social George from Kumplampoika in
talking about their periods with pride, progression, healthcare and education Pathanamthitta district and Nisha
rather than with embarrassment and for women and girls in Kerala is an George from Kozencherry and has a
apology. There is a huge amount of example to many countries across the sibling Millan George. The family is
reluctance to discuss menstruation world. settled in Thiruvananthapuram. In the
and much of it is ingrained and cultural UK they are settled in North London.
“The Sabarimala ruling by the Supreme
and we really need a sea change in our
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingINTERVIEW Former Supreme Court Judge K.T.Thomas / Sini K Thomas, Information Officer, IPRD
30
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacallingImplementing a
Supreme Court But the Supreme
verdict is the Court found that this
amendment is against
the fundamental principle
responsibility of the constitution. As
per the article 144 of
of both the the constitution it is
the responsibility of the
Central and State Central government,
all state governments
Governments :
and any authorities to
implement it.
Former Justice (Supreme Court) K.T. Thomas
H
ow far people of Kerala the fundamental principle of the According to article 13 of the
is modern is a question constitution. As per the article 144 of constitution if any laws, rituals and
to which the civil society the constitution it is the responsibility customs and usages are against the
seeks an answer these of the Central government, all state fundamental principles those will be
days. The Supreme Court governments and any authorities to invalid in the country.
verdict on entry of women at any implement it.
In Sabarimala issue women were
age to Sabarimala became an eye
But women of particular age group protesting to prove that they are
opener that made us rethink and
started entering Sabarimala impure during menstruation. Are we
redefine standards of our educational
temple. After the first incident in a conflict with science?
achievements. Are we still a religious
thantri closed the temple. Is it
community with rituals and beliefs or As per the article 25 of the 31
against the court verdict?
a civil society with rational thinking constitution freedom of religion is
brought forth by the development I am not commenting on this issue as subjected to public order, morality,
of science and technology? In the it is sub judiced. However, this verdict health and fundamental rights. Indian
context of the Supreme Court verdict is a declaration in nature. Making constitution gives importance to
on women’s entry to Sabarimala and women entering the temple is not these four elements than any religious
aftermath Kerala Law Commission the responsibility of the government. rules or rituals. Rights of any religion
Chairman and retired Supreme Court As per the verdict women of any age could be exercised subject to these
judge justice K.T. Thomas expresses will not be prevented from entering four elements.
his views and opinion to Kerala Calling. Sabarimala temple. When two women
The declaration by some women
Excerpts from the interview by entered the temple no police, board or
that menstruation is impure is out
Information Officer Sini K Thomas. government prevented them.
ignorance. In modern religion Guru
Government’s effort to implement Court does not have any role to stop Nanak said menstruation is a pure and
the verdict of the Supreme Court on such practices that are contradicting holy mechanism because during these
women’s entry became successful with law? Changes are happening very period nature declares to the world
despite protest. How do you evaluate slowly. eg. Banning Triple Talaq, case of that a woman is matured enough to
these developments? Do you think Mary Roy etc. become a mother.
freedom of religion started controlling
The court needs lis. Lis denotes a Why such impurity concept are
the values and laws of the country?
case. Without a case court cannot still in the society? Many educated
The issue in Sabarimala should be go for action. Judicial exercise can women are protesting against the
undersood as an issue related to law be exercised only after hearing two court verdict?
of the country and a religious issue. sides. But government can make
Modern science is only 500 years
It started with an amendment in legislation. Of course, it will take time
old. Religions are ages old. They were
the Public Places of Worship Act in to change. Mary Roy’s case made
formed decades and centuries before
1991 fixing an age limit for women a social change in the society. Her
the formation of modern science.
to enter Sabarimala. The Kerala High fight was against a wrong practice in
Religion understands social changes
Court approved this amendment. Christian religion to ensure equal right
and developments of sciences very
But the Supreme Court found to women in property rights. Triple
slowly. Religions had to correct many
that this amendment is against Talaq also is against constitution.
mistakes after modern science
keralacalling@gmail.com JANUARY 2019 kerala callingINTERVIEW
Religious institutions
played a pivotal role
in building up modern
education in Kerala.
However, when the modern
education started growing
from its infancy to growth
and development religions
started contradicting with
it. Sabarimala issue is by
product of the incapacity
of people to accept the
changes of education
made in the society.
took over the direction of society. If
religion is not willing to change and
accommodate with the developments
of science its existence will be
challenged. There is a general belief
32 that religion should be in chains of
orthodoxy or antiquity. Such religions
will not last long. Religions are
certainly keeping a going backward
approach than yesteryears while
embracing orthodoxy more. Opposing
the court verdict that allows entry to
any women in Sabarimala itself is a
going backward mentality.
Society will enable to think only due their vote banks. Why we focus The Constitution of India gives the
to research based education. In more on religion to address minority same rights and privileges to both
the modern era, our biggest social issues? We need to address linguistic religious and casteless people. It is
achievement is the growth and minorities, disables, women etc. as the same section of the constitution
development of communication well. Indian constitution only ensured gives freedom to believe in a religion
technology. religious minorities to continue to run or not to believe in it. Plus points
their education institutions even after of religion to the society is that it
Preventing women from entering independence. This right is included provided commendable service in
Sabarimala by creating social in the article 30 of the constitution health sector, education and old
unrest is due to ignorance or it is a in order to protect educational age care. But religious thoughts
conscious political tactics? institutions. The result is religious and beliefs are indoctrinated from
These gimmicks are sheer politicking. minorities became strong pressure childhood and personal life is
But some people are getting involved groups. Their supremacy has created influenced by these ideals than rule
in it due to ignorance. Politics in this a kind of restlessness and tension of the nation. Such draw backs will
country has an aberrant tendency among majority. The state should affect the growth and development of
to get power and hold it for ever. take care of the issues of majority to society.
Sabarimala issue is a danger emerged control such restlessness. In TMA Pai
Religious institutions played a pivotal
as a by-product of this aberration. case the Supreme Court says that
role in building up modern education
Why political parties make religion a every right enjoyed by the religious
in Kerala. However, when the modern
political weapon if it will not increase minorities are applicable to religious
education started growing from its
majority too.
kerala calling JANUARY 2019 www.prd.kerala.gov.in/publication/keralacalling33
infancy to growth and development of our country and integrity of It is unfair to oppose an idea based
religions started contradicting with constitution. Educational institutes on political differences. If BJP
it. Sabarimala issue is by product of owned by religion will not be ready to was ruling Kerala what would have
the incapacity of people to accept teach such syllabus. All renaissance been their stand on the Supreme
the changes of education made in thinking and changes brought forth Court verdict on Sabarimala issue.
the society. by it will not end in next 10 years. I don’t think that they would have
Society will change. History proves created these kinds of issues then.
Religion has become an influential
it. Implementing a Supreme Court
pressure group that can influence
verdict is the responsibility of both
the society beyond constitution? What is your opinion about
the central and state government.
Women’s Wall formed on Jan 1st?
Certainly. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru It is unfair and sad to prevent a
had for seen the biggest challenge in The Women’s Wall was formed as a government from implementing
independent India as transformation demonstration to declare solidarity Supreme Court verdict by creating
of a country based on religion to a in support to protect right of conflicts. It is unfair for a political
secular state. It is the same religious women. The problem starts when party like BJP who are already in
consciousness and beliefs made it becomes controversial. I think power at the centre and have the
people gathered against the verdict Women’s Wall should be welcomed responsibility to implement the
of the Supreme Court. Liberal values because it is a demonstration to verdict. It is also unfair for Congress
should come through education. declare protection of women’s right. who always says that they are
We need revolutionary changes Why some people opposed it? It is prepared to rule the centre in the
in curricula to promote the cause unfair to look everything politically. next election.
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