I have watched multiple shows with lead characters as witches on Netflix recently. Those women are strong, independent; they live by themselves, they speak for themselves. The thought often lingers my mind—Who is a witch, after all? I am sure, this must-have crossed your mind as well. During my childhood, I often overheard the Mohalla aunties labelling an outspoken woman as “Chudail” (witch). Growing up, I heard the adjective for myself as well.
So, Who is a Witch, After All?
She is referred to as a witch.
Her clan’s astrologer had declared her fate to be a pile of wood,
Which would burn her alive,
To save the honour of the tribe.
He claims she will bring shame to the family.
“Let go of her or she will slaughter your glory,” he had announced.
He exclaimed once that she cannot be a part of the respectable society.
She exists to resist.
She survives to thrive.
She talks to influence.
She walks to create an impact.
She is a witch and this is her story!
She tried all her life to find a home only to construct an adobe
out of her past in the woods.
The beautifully aching past which the world seems to be looking at
as a pot full of sins.
Elementally, she is a witch.
Of course! She didn’t conform to the patriarchy
She didn’t conform to the men;
to the elderly who never respected her;
to the younger ones who never treated her well;
to the boyfriends who abused her;
to the crushes who broke her heart;
She didn’t confirm to anyone.
She had to be free
She had to become a witch, after all.