I come from a little conservative south Indian family. Though my parents aren’t that orthodox they aren’t too modern either. The thought that ‘Men are God’ still prevails in my family. My paternal grandmother who is by the way really old and has always been sick still would climb mountains to do anything for her son and grandsons (one of whom doesn’t even respect her). Instead my aunt, at whose house she stays, my mom and me are looked down upon. It’s irritating to see a woman herself not fighting for her own gender! No wonder I became a rebel from a young age. I never realised it, until one day my mom just casually told me, “I never thought you would become rebellious”.
What does this statement mean? Does a girl have a specific way to behave in? Or dress in? ( I forgot to mention I’m not even allowed to wear shorts or a sleeveless dress). Not trying to be a feminist. I genuinely feel that girls and boys should be treated equally. While my dad is away on a tour, which is once in a blue moon, I have a jolly good time. I also noticed that my mom is pretty chilled out. So we do share these secrets, Where I have a couple of shorts which come out only when my dad is not around. And also me going out shopping with my friends far away without telling my dad. Though I hate hiding it from him I realised I have no other option. It’s either lie to him or not enjoy my life at all.
My cousin had once told me to revolt. I laughed it off thinking this is no war. Yes I have an over protective dad, but at least I’m lucky to have one. He let me choose my own career and do so many other things even though I’ve been a bad kid. I can’t blame him for my childish behaviour. I have sinned couple of times (not something like lose my virginity, mind you), but he’s sweet enough to forgive all of that and still be there for me. I don’t want to rebel or revolt. Yes I wished he was a little more understanding but nahh I love him and wouldn’t want anyone else as my father. As for my sexist granny and aunt (result of staying together for years) things will take care of itself. Till then I’ll be fighting my own battle. But not like them. Because I represent myself and not them.
- So for all those girls out there trying to fight the gender discrimination happening at their own houses, don’t ever lose faith in yourself and don’t give up your dreams because of others. They’re family and they will always come around. And if they don’t, that cute smile of yours can surely help you create a lot of friends-turned-family.