Breaking Stereotypes: The Role of Feminism in Modern Society

 Breaking Stereotypes: The Role of Feminism in Modern Society

Feminism- a little controversial idea that women might deserve the same rights and respect as men. Who would have thought, centuries ago, that this deeply entrenched form of patriarchy will ever be questioned which would ultimately stir up so much debate? Yet, here we are, still explaining today that the idea of feminism is not something radical or a world-shattering concept, rather it ensures the equal level playing field for a fair society. People need to understand that this concept is not about man-hating or special treatment for women, instead it is about dismantling outdated systems where patriarchy is embedded in one or the other form. 

Feminism in Action: Breaking Global Stereotypes

Workplace Equality: Overcoming Professional Biases

Doesn’t it seem astonishing that even today, in 2025, we are discussing workplace equality and the same professional biases that should have been the relics of the past? Despite women making up nearly half the workforce, why do leadership roles remain with males? Out of all the countries, how many women Prime Ministers or Presidents do we have? Do people still believe that women are not able to handle the entire country? Then, when talking about equal opportunity and rights, why are we criticized, why is it being said that women have attained enough equality? It is still a NO, women still do not have inclusive workplaces, even more when it comes to LGBTQIA+ community. There are occupations which are considered to be feminine and if taken by males, they are being harassed such as receptionist, nurse whereas, on the other hand, women are not accepted as taxi drivers. Isn't it very common to hear that a woman is driving, an accident is bound to happen? However, according to the data of the World Health Organization, males are typically 3 times more likely to be killed in road crashes than females.

Patriarchy Thrives, But Feminism Gets Blamed:

When talking about our Indian culture, patriarchy is not just social structure but a deeply internalized belief system passed down through generations. People are seen upset on the birth of a girl child, as she is considered a responsibility over parents’ heads. Families often celebrate the birth of a son and mourn the arrival of a daughter because the son will be the heir of the family and daughters belong to some other family. Additionally, the marriages of daughters are considered, as if it is a huge curse on parents. Why is it so?  Let’s not pretend we don’t know: it’s the ever-present, ever-demanding dowry system, where a daughter’s wedding becomes less a celebration and more a financial nightmare for her. Isn’t the high time this should stop and males should stand against this?  Strangely, those voices seem far busier railing against feminism, painting it as a threat rather than standing up against this real menace of dowry. 

Myth of ‘Respect for Women” in Indian society:

Indian culture often prides about respecting women and treating them as goddesses, citing ancient texts and the worship of deities like Durga and Lakshmi. However, don’t we know this reverence is conditional, a wife is considered as Durga until she obeys the husband and daughter-on-law is considered as the form of Lakshmi as long as she looks after the household and everybody’ needs. Society can never forget about the brutal Nirbhaya gangrape case of 2012, triggering the global outrage. Even in such cases, the victim's clothing and presence in public places is being questioned instead of addressing the perpetrators’ mindset. Why not discuss about the recent case of Raja Raghuvanshi from Indore – entire male is shaken by the incident, which is fair and obvious, but where is this same energy when women are the victims, when countless rape cases emerge each day, often met with victi-blaming, silence and apathy. 

Feminism as a Threat to 'Indian Values':

Feminism, as a threat, is seen as a serious threat to Indian values. Why would it not? It would have been seen as a threat, when questioning the Sati Pratha, one of the horrifying chapters in the history of gender injustice where a widow immolates herself on her husband’s funeral pyre. In today’s times, when women stand for themselves and want an equal share in household work. For centuries, home was seen as a woman’s domain and their audacity is criticised by in-laws when she asks their son, after juggling with her own careers and ambitions, for shared  responsibilities. Furthermore, the simple act of denying the veil sparked debates from family dinner tables to national parliaments. They are replied with – this is modest and respectable. 

If this seems a threat to Indian values, let it be. Feminism is a necessity for building a truly just and equitable society. We need to stand against the ingrained patriarchal norms of the society until every girl and woman can live freely from any discrimination and violence. 

Closing Credit

 Author- Shambhavi Mathur

"The views expressed are personal. This article is intended for educational purposes and public discourse. Feedback and constructive criticism are welcome!"