Even though a new age woman is far more empowered but her progress skids to a halt when cases of  unprecedented regressive news emerges. Women empowerment at times seems to be an  illusion. We need to applaud every effort made so far. Each one of the women featured in this issue has a gritty story behind them. Erum battled family  obligations  but curated 500 exhibitions. Manisha  battled medical situation and zero support. Aditi Sharma renowned Dhrpud singer and Anita Kulkerni a passionate sculptor carved their own niche. Sangeeta Gupta and Sonali Durgaa Chaudri are shining examples of sheer hard work. Rashmi Vidyalingam Kuchipudi dancer and  an advocate and Swagata Bose the artist have worked tirelessly . Bose’s 5 paintings “Censor the Nude” is all for the expression of freedom. We celebrate Women’s day because such passionate women exist and continue to inspire all of us.

Manisha Gawade

People might often wonder why do we need to celebrate Women’s Day and sometimes people just might think it is frivolous, but it’s not. With a male dominated society women are often subjected to evils even by so called educated men on a daily basis. It is only in a few cases when some women are able to over come the atrocities done to them and still move on.

My own case might not be the only one in the world, trying to bring up a child alone since she was two years old and maintaining one’s own balance can be quite a challenge. With no financial backing from the ex-husband inspite of fighting a maintenance case in the courts for years but in vain.

Trying to battle medical situations, education for my child and lack of support from a family as my parents and sister passed away years ago. I survived not because of something but inspite of everything. It’s a battle every single day! So if once in a year the world decides to celebrate us trust me it’s worth it!

Erum Khan

A Global Inspiration on International Women’s Day: Erum Khan

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and accomplishments of women who inspire change and create impact. Among these remarkable women stands Erum Khan, a beacon of hope, determination, and compassion.

Born with an innate passion for art, Erum’s journey began in her childhood when she found solace in drawing and painting. But life had challenges in store for her. Her struggles began at a young age, where she took on various responsibilities to support her family. “Meri zindagi ka struggle toh bohot kam umar se shuru ho gaya tha,” she reflects. While balancing multiple jobs and family obligations, Erum continued to nurture her passion for art, often working late into the night.

For over 22-25 years, she worked tirelessly, and for the last 18 years, she has dedicated herself professionally to art. Her journey transformed a childhood hobby into a celebrated career, establishing herself as an accomplished artist and curator. Through her platform, Aura Planet, Erum has curated over 500 exhibitions, providing opportunities for countless artists to showcase their talent on national and international stages.

Empowering Through Art and Action

Beyond her artistic contributions, Erum is deeply committed to social causes. She has actively worked to educate underprivileged children, support acid attack survivors, and care for street animals. These efforts are not just acts of charity but a reflection of her belief that art and humanity go hand in hand. “Socially active rehkar main underprivileged bacchon ko padhane se lekar, acid attack survivors ki madad aur street animals ko feed karne ka kaam karti aayi hoon, aur yeh zindagi bhar karti rahungi,” she says with unwavering conviction.

A Role Model for Women Globally

Eum’s story is one of perseverance and purpose. She has broken barriers in the male-dominated art world, proving that women can thrive as independent professionals. Her efforts to bridge the gap between art and community have not only earned her recognition but also inspired countless women to follow their passions and create meaningful change.

As an artist, Erum views art as more than a profession-it is a form of therapy, a way to connect with emotions and find inner peace. “Art is a universal language, transcending boundaries of caste, religion, and gender,” she says. Through her work, she encourages others to express themselves freely, reminding us that art has the power to heal and unite.

Closing Note: Inspiring the Next Generation

Erum’s journey is a message to all women: never give up on your dreams, no matter how difficult the path may seem. She believes that every woman has the strength to rise above challenges and create a life of purpose and fulfillment. On this International Women’s Day, Erum Khan’s story stands as a testament to the boundless potential of women and the power of passion, perseverance, and compassion.

“Zindagi ki har ladaai ek nayi seekh hai, aur har sapna ek nayi shuruaat ka darwaza,” she says. For Erum, art is not just a career-it is her soul, her therapy, and her way of giving back to the world.

SONAALI DURGA CHAUDHRI

The Importance of Celebrating International Women’s Day International Women’s Day is a vital occasion to honour the achievements of women worldwide despite the so called ‘gender equality’ which is more of a fancy title than an actual reality. Women play an essential role in society, contributing as leaders, innovators, caregivers, and changemakers. Their resilience and dedication shape a better world for future generations. Personally, I draw immense strength and inspiration from my mother, who raised me as a single parent. Her perseverance, love, and sacrifices taught me the true meaning of determination. Celebrating this day every year reminds us to uplift women, acknowledge their struggles, and work towards a future where they are empowered and celebrated every day.

Sangeeta Gupta

International Women’s Day is a celebration of strength, resilience, and the boundless spirit of womanhood.

As a poet, artist, filmmaker, and former civil servant, I have walked many paths-each one proving that a woman’s power knows no limits. Women are creators, leaders, and visionaries. We shape societies with our art, words, and actions. On this day, let’s honor our struggles, victories, and the road ahead.

“A woman is a universe-she nurtures, she leads, she transforms. No dream is beyond her reach, no battle beyond her strength.”

ADITI SHARMA GARG

Dhrupad Vocalist & Musicologist

International Women’s Day to my understanding is not a day to reclaim the identity but a need to redefine the gender roles.

The need of the hour is not a competition but a ‘co-existence’. The endeavour of striking the right balance of the ‘division of labour’ in the domestic spheres and professional domains.

The mutual dependence of complementing and supplementing each other’s social, emotional and spiritual needs.

This ‘co-existence’ is not a new phenomenon. We hail from a rich traditional value system that glorifies our deity as Ardhanarishwara, the existence of prakriti-purush, lasya-tandava, Shiva-Parvati in one.

Being a Dhrupad vocalist, it is my profound desire that the venerated art form of Dhrupad is embraced by more female singers as NAAD, the manifestation of sound absolute is irrespective of gender. Dhrupad should not be seen as male centric genre popularly known as mardaana gayaki. The melodious nectar of music supersedes all these notions. It is the celestial bliss which is experienced ultimately helps in realising the pristine beauty of Sangeet.

Rashmi Vaidyalingam

Kuchipudi Dancer and advocate

From time immemorial , in most developed as well as under- developed , economies a women’s position was relegated in the background, not only as a weaker sex but also having mental and physical inferiority ,be it at the home front or in the work place arena.

Rights of women in most spheres were abysmal.

Movement to restore women’s dignity, self esteem, to denounce abuse and violence, independence to vote, parity at work place etc. gathered momentum and in the early 20th century,8th March was declared the International Women’s Day.

This day is celebrated annually to uphold and bring into focus women’s issues like gender equality, reproductive rights,domestic violence,abuse against women,voting rights etc.

This day celebrates the social, economic,cultural and political achievements made by women in various walks of life.

Anita Kulkerni

As a woman sculptor, I find that every piece I create is an echo of the strength, resilience, and beauty of women everywhere. On this Women’s Day, I reflect on the countless untold stories of women who’ve shaped the world quietly, powerfully, and often unnoticed. My sculptures honor these voices, chiseled from the materials that symbolize both fragility and strength. Each curve, each line is a tribute to the complexities of being a woman-an artist, a mother, a leader, a dreamer. Through my art, I celebrate the depth of our journeys, and the power of our presence.

Swagata  Bose

Artist

Womanhood is to be celebrated. As a woman and a figurative narrative artist,I am drawn to explore all aspects of the woman, her body and her being. La Venus-The Being and the Body; The series of initial 29 paintings attempts to understand the psyche of a mid aged woman unmasked and naked, the various expressions and  impressions of her mind and her emotions exposed for the viewer who see her stripped to the core ,her emotions, her being exposed.

Censor the Nude; The series of 5 paintings is a protest against Freedom of expression of a woman in our society. Panchakanya; This series of 5 paintings is dedicated to the pancha kanyas in our Hindu epics; Draupadi, Mandodari,  Ahalya, Tara and Kunti who were not worshipped for their modesty but revered for their strong personalities.

The Current series , “She wears her scars like a Nova Stella” is about women of all ages who are dealing with many serious issues in life be it cancer ,depression, loneliness, rejection, insecurity and yet they stand tall ,brave and strong .It is my tribute to these beautiful women .

I take immense pride in celebrating women with all their weaknesses, strength and vulnerability. I live with Art and through my Art and my ouvre and I serve to express my admiration for all women. I hope to go on contributing in my little way towards society and celebrate womanhood through my Art.