There is no way that I could rate the cities that we visited in order of importance, but I can say that although we were the busiest in the last four days of our trip, the Golden Triangle was possibly the most exciting. The Golden Triangle, which is comprised of Agra, Jaipur and Delhi, offered us insights into a vastly diverse set of experiences ranging from the history and beauty of Akbar’s Temple and the Taj Mahal to the confident smiles of rural women working for fair pay and self-determined hours in the comfort of their own villages.
As I passed through the north gate at the Taj Mahal, I was suddenly hit with a wave of awe that stopped me in my path. My stomach dropped, my breath caught in my lungs and my mouth fell open at the sight of such a titanic structure, built from exquisite white marble. It was majestic and the sight has been burned permanently into my memory.
Lastly, I was blown away by the hard-working women in the village that we visited who were gainfully employed by the Jaipur Rugs Company. We had the opportunity to see the women skillfully weave the colored yarns in and out of a loom to the musical sound of the pattern conductor reading the codes of instructions to the women. We saw that the children of the village were dressed better than they had been before the opportunity to work came to their village. We also had the opportunity to visit the training center and saw teenage women learning the craft. My instant reaction to seeing these women training so young was that I thought that they should be in school, my instinct was generally to apply the ideals and norms from the U.S., but I learned, progressively throughout the trip to challenge these beliefs. These training centers postpone the time for young girls of 15 and older to marry and allows them to develop a skill that they can use for the rest of their lives. It was an unbelievable experience and I’m so thankful to have been able to meet these women and see their phenomenal ability to take opportunities, risks and go from surviving to thriving.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Elisabeth Pacl - Hyderabad
One of the most important events for me in Hyderabad was when we had to opportunity to visit with some of the top members of the for-profit organization Basix. Basix is essentially the number one most successful micro-credit lending agencies in the country of India. From sitting in their boardroom and learning about the organization, I realized that this is exactly the type of organization I want to work for -- a for-profit that’s mission based!!! I was fascinated to hear about the technical development of such important missions; The organization’s goal is to advance the livelihood of the rural population through a hybrid technique of training, lending, monitoring, support etc. And the company is profitable, because they can claim a 99% recovery rate on their loan money—this is UNHEARD of anywhere else in the world. We were told that although it’s a 99% recovery rate, women are undoubtedly the quickest to pay back the loans—we discussed this as how women are generally using this money with the firm interest in developing strong assets for their families so these women are not going to make uncalculated risks and will pay back their lender immediately. I was beyond impressed by the success that Basix could show us, in relation to the majority of organizations in the U.S.
Rahala: Agra, Jaipur, Delhi
The last four days of our trip were the most hectic. We travelled to 3 different cities and a village in Rajasthan. We got to Delhi on the 14th evening and from the airport took a bus drive to Mathura for an overnight stay then off to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. After that we went to Dausa. This is when we visited a village were we saw how Jaipur Rugs a family owned business, had been helping women who are uneducated, under privileged, making them empowered. It was amazing to see these women working on their own, making a steady income and again balancing family life as well. After this we were off to Jaipur were we met with CEO and executives of the rug company and other family members. They talked to us about the culture with in company, which is very family oriented and how it helped them be a successful business. We also visited couple other colleges, did tons of shopping, and some sight seeing. On the 18th we drove back to Delhi and spend the night on EMPI campus. Next day we had another conference, then some shopping, and then back on the flight to America.
Over all this trip was amazing, it opened up my eyes to a whole new India. I realized that yes there is poverty, corruption, bad people, but at the same time there is so much more being done to make it all right. Yes India has been a male dominated country for the past 60 years but now things are changing. Women are taking a stand for themselves and other women and girls. I visited many NGO’s that were working with government to educate young children both girls and boys, also working on educating women. As they said educate a man that just helps him, but educate a woman which is like educating the whole family.
Over all this trip was amazing, it opened up my eyes to a whole new India. I realized that yes there is poverty, corruption, bad people, but at the same time there is so much more being done to make it all right. Yes India has been a male dominated country for the past 60 years but now things are changing. Women are taking a stand for themselves and other women and girls. I visited many NGO’s that were working with government to educate young children both girls and boys, also working on educating women. As they said educate a man that just helps him, but educate a woman which is like educating the whole family.
Deanna in the Golden Triangle.
The Golden Triangle is one of the most popular tourist areas in India, especially famous for the Taj Mahal. The effects from tourism were evident by contrasting with previous experiences of Indian culture.
We visited Basix, a microfinance institution with astonishing successes. By initiating business with genuine intentions, Basix customers reflect the company’s values, and thus cultivate flourishing entrepreneurship or business. After reading and hearing about the difficulties women and lower-caste members struggle with, especially when trying to establish careers, I was very pleased to hear how progressive companies like Basix are steadily remodeling the business worlds. Time will tell how many other businesses follow suit. In comparison to the United States’ ethics, the West may take longer to adopt this practice.
Jaipur Rugs ensures steady employment to women and lower-caste members. As a result, the statistics and the economy are shifting towards progressiveness and equality. The owner of Jaipur Rugs has appointed his three daughters with important management positions in his company. In context, this is a big step for Indian businesses. Though their roles were more inherited than earned, the Jaipur Rugs women set an example for all females aspiring a successful career life.
The sweetest ending to our trip was at EMPI. Not only were the students and faculty hospitable, we were entertained with a cultural festival in the evening. The consistent kindness shown by every host certainly left an impression on me.
Holly Paquette - Northern India
Our last stops were Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi. The ultimate thing in which we got to experience was visiting the Taj Mahal. Its beauty and elegance can never be fully captured or written about, only when you see it first hand can you really experience its full magnificence and splendor. It was amazing to see and it is definitely something I will remember for the rest of my life.
In Jaipur we had the privilege of visiting Jaipur Rug Company. Learning about the company and what it is doing to help the local community, especially village women is fantastic. Before meeting with the head of the company we went on field visits. It was so moving and inspirational to visit with women from the villages and see where they live and work. Each village is provided with a big loom so that the women can work by producing rugs to make money. The great thing about this company is that the women who make the rugs are able to work on the rugs whenever they have a chance. For instance if they need to tend to their children or work on their crops, they have the freedom to step away from the loom. When meeting with the head of the company one thing that I found intriguing was the fact that many of the rugs produced by the women in these villages end up in big stores here in the US such as Ikea, Target, Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Pier I, and Pottery Barn just to name a few. I never realized that a lot of the rugs on the market are hand made. After visiting with Jaipur Rugs it put a lot of things in perspective for me and the next time a go to a store selling rugs I will be able to look at them with a whole new appreciation. I just wish that these stores made it more clear to the consumer where these rugs came from and who made them because I always just assumed that they were all machine made.
Overall this trip to India has been filled with excitement, new found knowledge, new friends, and awe inspiring experiences. It has definitely impacted my life for the better and I have learned many life lessons.
In Jaipur we had the privilege of visiting Jaipur Rug Company. Learning about the company and what it is doing to help the local community, especially village women is fantastic. Before meeting with the head of the company we went on field visits. It was so moving and inspirational to visit with women from the villages and see where they live and work. Each village is provided with a big loom so that the women can work by producing rugs to make money. The great thing about this company is that the women who make the rugs are able to work on the rugs whenever they have a chance. For instance if they need to tend to their children or work on their crops, they have the freedom to step away from the loom. When meeting with the head of the company one thing that I found intriguing was the fact that many of the rugs produced by the women in these villages end up in big stores here in the US such as Ikea, Target, Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Pier I, and Pottery Barn just to name a few. I never realized that a lot of the rugs on the market are hand made. After visiting with Jaipur Rugs it put a lot of things in perspective for me and the next time a go to a store selling rugs I will be able to look at them with a whole new appreciation. I just wish that these stores made it more clear to the consumer where these rugs came from and who made them because I always just assumed that they were all machine made.
Overall this trip to India has been filled with excitement, new found knowledge, new friends, and awe inspiring experiences. It has definitely impacted my life for the better and I have learned many life lessons.
Holly Paquette Hyderabad
Visiting Hyderabad was a lot of fun; it was great seeing and learning about a different part of India. One of the most interesting aspects of our time spent in Hyderabad was listening to many different women speak and talk about their views and experiences with working in a male dominated career. We went to Dhruva college were we presented and herd a wonderful panel discussion. It was inspirational and at some points very funny to listen to these women speak, I diffinitly learned a lot and increased my perspective on the advantages and disadvantages women face in the workforce.
Having the opportunity to share in the experience of the Lohri Festival at IBS College really allowed all of us to engage in the Indian cultural. It was so much fun to dance and celebrate with the students of IBS. It really allowed us to decrease the cultural gap between the students of Simmons and the students of IBS. We learned and shared a lot with one another about our different customs and beliefs. Ever school and everyone we have met so far has been really generous and hospitable. It is almost overwhelming how nice everyone has been, but in a good way. It was also interesting to sight-see and shop around the city because it allowed me to see how people in the urban setting go about their day verse those we have seen and met in villages.
Having the opportunity to share in the experience of the Lohri Festival at IBS College really allowed all of us to engage in the Indian cultural. It was so much fun to dance and celebrate with the students of IBS. It really allowed us to decrease the cultural gap between the students of Simmons and the students of IBS. We learned and shared a lot with one another about our different customs and beliefs. Ever school and everyone we have met so far has been really generous and hospitable. It is almost overwhelming how nice everyone has been, but in a good way. It was also interesting to sight-see and shop around the city because it allowed me to see how people in the urban setting go about their day verse those we have seen and met in villages.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Roxana Siu: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur
Upon visiting these three cities, in which they are dubbed “the golden triangle,” I have gained a sharper understanding of how the tourist industry works and how the economy capitalizes on tourists. I come from Hawaii and its economy survives on tourism, and I was never quite clear about how the processes worked. It was fascinating, and a bit intimidating, to learn that not only the stores, but the tour guides, taxis, and even the bus drivers, are all involved together to gather tourists and take them to specific areas of consumer consumption. Delhi, Agra, Jaipur are the prime areas because they are the places most traveled to. I found the most fascinating aspect of the tourism industry, is the government regulation and how strictly it is enforced. There is a closely monitored check and balance system, in which store owners are not allowed to treat customers with any form of disrespect and aggressiveness. If a store in this area misbehaves in any way that a tourist finds insulting and is reported, the store will immediately shut down. While shopping I also noticed that several stores along the same route is owned by the same person or the family of a previous store and I felt almost uncomfortable knowing that the store owners were a very tight knit group and that they were planning something. A difference in the shopping experience from Delhi to Jaipur, is that the store owners were very much more calm and less aggressive than in Jaipur. Store employees also cared a bit less, because of the high amount of traffic they get in comparison to Jaipur. Trying to separate the tourist part of me was a very difficult task, and I hope that with more traveling experience, I will be able to better do so, in order to get the full experience of a country. I do like to think though, that out my shopping experience in India, I gained a certain level of skill in bargaining, though I definitely need more practice!
Upon visiting these three cities, in which they are dubbed “the golden triangle,” I have gained a sharper understanding of how the tourist industry works and how the economy capitalizes on tourists. I come from Hawaii and its economy survives on tourism, and I was never quite clear about how the processes worked. It was fascinating, and a bit intimidating, to learn that not only the stores, but the tour guides, taxis, and even the bus drivers, are all involved together to gather tourists and take them to specific areas of consumer consumption. Delhi, Agra, Jaipur are the prime areas because they are the places most traveled to. I found the most fascinating aspect of the tourism industry, is the government regulation and how strictly it is enforced. There is a closely monitored check and balance system, in which store owners are not allowed to treat customers with any form of disrespect and aggressiveness. If a store in this area misbehaves in any way that a tourist finds insulting and is reported, the store will immediately shut down. While shopping I also noticed that several stores along the same route is owned by the same person or the family of a previous store and I felt almost uncomfortable knowing that the store owners were a very tight knit group and that they were planning something. A difference in the shopping experience from Delhi to Jaipur, is that the store owners were very much more calm and less aggressive than in Jaipur. Store employees also cared a bit less, because of the high amount of traffic they get in comparison to Jaipur. Trying to separate the tourist part of me was a very difficult task, and I hope that with more traveling experience, I will be able to better do so, in order to get the full experience of a country. I do like to think though, that out my shopping experience in India, I gained a certain level of skill in bargaining, though I definitely need more practice!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Roxana Siu: Hyderabad
Of all the conferences, I felt that the one we attended in Dhruva College was the most interesting, engaging, and intellectually stimulating. I believe the structure of the conference was the most effective, because instead of a panelist presentation, it was more of an informal discussion group. The rapport, age range and diverse job field between each panelists, held my attention and interest, and I just simply enjoyed what they had to say. It was interesting to note that the discussion was very positive about women empowerment and women leadership, and if there was a focus on the negative, the answer was always hopeful. There was a constant reference that barriers to women do not exist and to believe so is the barrier. These women do not believe that there are gender differences and that there are ample opportunities for women in the fields of journalism to healthcare. What fascinated me the most was how these powerful women would consciously lose the upper hand to their husbands just to keep the home life stable and conflict free. They find it necessary to allow their husbands to take control, which in my opinion, contradicts what they represent and their very own beliefs. Their validation in doing so is that it is difficult to balance the work life with the home life and in order to succeed within their career; they have to make the home life secure and stable. I can understand their point of view on that matter, and it makes me wonder if I would do the same or if all high powered women do the same. It would have been even more interesting if there were men leaders involved in the discussion, to get a wide range of discussion, issues, and debates, but then that conference would have been extended to the whole night! After the conference we were invited to attend Dhruva College’s commencement ceremony and it amazed me that majority of the gold medal recipients were female and it made me strangely proud that I witnessed evidence of women surpassing men, on what is deemed as a level paying field-education.
After the resort stay in Hyderabad, We celebrate Pongal at IBS and that was incredibly fun! I learned a very interesting part of Indian culture and am still touched and amazed how inclusive the student body was, to be a part of their celebration.
Of all the conferences, I felt that the one we attended in Dhruva College was the most interesting, engaging, and intellectually stimulating. I believe the structure of the conference was the most effective, because instead of a panelist presentation, it was more of an informal discussion group. The rapport, age range and diverse job field between each panelists, held my attention and interest, and I just simply enjoyed what they had to say. It was interesting to note that the discussion was very positive about women empowerment and women leadership, and if there was a focus on the negative, the answer was always hopeful. There was a constant reference that barriers to women do not exist and to believe so is the barrier. These women do not believe that there are gender differences and that there are ample opportunities for women in the fields of journalism to healthcare. What fascinated me the most was how these powerful women would consciously lose the upper hand to their husbands just to keep the home life stable and conflict free. They find it necessary to allow their husbands to take control, which in my opinion, contradicts what they represent and their very own beliefs. Their validation in doing so is that it is difficult to balance the work life with the home life and in order to succeed within their career; they have to make the home life secure and stable. I can understand their point of view on that matter, and it makes me wonder if I would do the same or if all high powered women do the same. It would have been even more interesting if there were men leaders involved in the discussion, to get a wide range of discussion, issues, and debates, but then that conference would have been extended to the whole night! After the conference we were invited to attend Dhruva College’s commencement ceremony and it amazed me that majority of the gold medal recipients were female and it made me strangely proud that I witnessed evidence of women surpassing men, on what is deemed as a level paying field-education.
After the resort stay in Hyderabad, We celebrate Pongal at IBS and that was incredibly fun! I learned a very interesting part of Indian culture and am still touched and amazed how inclusive the student body was, to be a part of their celebration.
Delhi, Agra, Jaipur
Maria Zaman – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur
Coming to the end of our trip, I can only say that so many of my wishes came true during the last leg of our stay. Not only did we experience the magnificent Taj Mahal, I got to ride an elephant and camel, see some of my most favorite songs performed live, and personally interact with villagers as well as the students of EMPI.
Taj Mahal was surreal; it was just so hard to grasp the fact that we were present to witness the monument which represented the grandeur of committed love. As for the animal rides, let’s just say it’s one scary experience riding a camel! The waiters at the restaurant were lovely, more than willing to stuff us with about 15-20 dishes, including three desserts! When traveling around Amber Fort, I got the opportunity to enjoy some Sufi style, spiritual songs performed by two men, one with the accordion and the other with the dhol. I became so entranced with the music and the entire experience that my lip singing was most definitely noticeable by the small crowd that had gathered to see me make a fool of myself! Feeling right at home when we went to one of the villages where men and women create rugs for Jaipur Rugs, I was again astounded by the love showered upon us by others. EMPI was a blast, since not only did we show some of our vulnerabilities through song and dance, the EMPI students did just the same for us!
Coming to the end of our trip, I can only say that so many of my wishes came true during the last leg of our stay. Not only did we experience the magnificent Taj Mahal, I got to ride an elephant and camel, see some of my most favorite songs performed live, and personally interact with villagers as well as the students of EMPI.
Taj Mahal was surreal; it was just so hard to grasp the fact that we were present to witness the monument which represented the grandeur of committed love. As for the animal rides, let’s just say it’s one scary experience riding a camel! The waiters at the restaurant were lovely, more than willing to stuff us with about 15-20 dishes, including three desserts! When traveling around Amber Fort, I got the opportunity to enjoy some Sufi style, spiritual songs performed by two men, one with the accordion and the other with the dhol. I became so entranced with the music and the entire experience that my lip singing was most definitely noticeable by the small crowd that had gathered to see me make a fool of myself! Feeling right at home when we went to one of the villages where men and women create rugs for Jaipur Rugs, I was again astounded by the love showered upon us by others. EMPI was a blast, since not only did we show some of our vulnerabilities through song and dance, the EMPI students did just the same for us!
Hyderabad
Maria Zaman - Hyderabad
Spending time in Hyderabad was not just educational, but also filled with much fun. From a learning perspective, we were privileged to attend a women’s panel made up of professional women from all spheres of careers. Some came from teaching backgrounds, others worked as managers, whereas some were even from the media industry. The commentator and main interviewer Karuna was very competent to task, considering she had the ability to ask some tough questions to the women with admirable grace. It was a very enlightening experience hearing these experienced women share with us their wisdom on life’s struggles and the need to keep moving forward despite them.
Speaking of fun, we were able to visit Film City, an amusement park and IBS, a business school. Watching an indulging stage show with dances, acrobatics, and humor, we were also able to go on a dizzying, and very much so exhilarating ride. With many sights and sounds, the free monkeys only add to the existing thrill factor. The students of IBS were very kind and caring towards us; ensuring that they left no stone unturned in their hospitality. Enticing us with the beats of the dhol, a two sided drum, they requested that we join in the celebration of the Lohri Festival. Let’s just say that even though we had all been tired before, the dancing reinvigorated us!
Spending time in Hyderabad was not just educational, but also filled with much fun. From a learning perspective, we were privileged to attend a women’s panel made up of professional women from all spheres of careers. Some came from teaching backgrounds, others worked as managers, whereas some were even from the media industry. The commentator and main interviewer Karuna was very competent to task, considering she had the ability to ask some tough questions to the women with admirable grace. It was a very enlightening experience hearing these experienced women share with us their wisdom on life’s struggles and the need to keep moving forward despite them.
Speaking of fun, we were able to visit Film City, an amusement park and IBS, a business school. Watching an indulging stage show with dances, acrobatics, and humor, we were also able to go on a dizzying, and very much so exhilarating ride. With many sights and sounds, the free monkeys only add to the existing thrill factor. The students of IBS were very kind and caring towards us; ensuring that they left no stone unturned in their hospitality. Enticing us with the beats of the dhol, a two sided drum, they requested that we join in the celebration of the Lohri Festival. Let’s just say that even though we had all been tired before, the dancing reinvigorated us!
Rahala: Hyderabad
We reached Hyderabad on Jan 9th and stayed there till the 14th. The women conference that we attended at Dhruva college was one of the best once. There were six women leaders on the panel ranging from different professions and as well as age form 28 to 65 years old. I learned that one of the problem that women in India deal with is staying in the workforce and getting ahead. The solution to this is in their own homes, having peace at home will bring peace every where else. Also, asking their family for support, flexible hours, were some of the answers that the women gave. They also said that it’s not just the women who need to make changes; it has to come from men as well. Men need to be part of diversity programs.
Another issue creating problems for women are they themselves. The panelists talked about how women can be their own biggest enemy. The women need to learn that they are not superwomen and it is ok if she can’t accomplish everything. They need to satisfy themselves with out feeling guilty and know that they don’t need someone else’s approval. Some of the other topics that they discussed were power dressing, how to close gender gap, who has inspired them, definition of leadership, and to just spread awareness of laws and rules among the rural women.
The second day we did some shopping and sight seeing in the heart of the city. We went to the Char Minar area, there we saw many kids selling artificial pearl necklaces and so on. They followed us around and talk to us in English. I was so surprised and amazed as to how well they could speak to us in English. This is because they went to school during the day and did street side selling to make some money at night to add on to the family income. We visited some other colleges, business executives and also the famous film city.
Another issue creating problems for women are they themselves. The panelists talked about how women can be their own biggest enemy. The women need to learn that they are not superwomen and it is ok if she can’t accomplish everything. They need to satisfy themselves with out feeling guilty and know that they don’t need someone else’s approval. Some of the other topics that they discussed were power dressing, how to close gender gap, who has inspired them, definition of leadership, and to just spread awareness of laws and rules among the rural women.
The second day we did some shopping and sight seeing in the heart of the city. We went to the Char Minar area, there we saw many kids selling artificial pearl necklaces and so on. They followed us around and talk to us in English. I was so surprised and amazed as to how well they could speak to us in English. This is because they went to school during the day and did street side selling to make some money at night to add on to the family income. We visited some other colleges, business executives and also the famous film city.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Daniela Saldana- Northern India, our last stop
Sadly, our last stop was India’s Golden Triangle: Agra, Jaipur and Delhi. In Agra, we visited the Taj Mahal and let me tell you, not a single photograph can represent the true beauty of such phenomenal piece of architecture. Standing in front of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, I found myself contrasting with the East as I was being surrounded by colorful and sparkling sarees.
After such an experience, we continued our journey and headed towards Jaipur. In this city, we visited the headquarters of Jaipur Rugs Corporation, a socially responsible company that sells rugs weaved by villagers. The founder’s daughter, Kavita, showed us the company’s operations and guided us through the delicate process of designing, making, checking and ultimately selling the rugs in the USA, Europe, and India. Also, the director of Human Resources took us to one of the villages in Jaipur where rugs are made. This visit was for me very inspiring because not only is the company creating stable jobs for villagers but also, it is paying them justly. Furthermore, it is allowing artisans to continue with their family's traditions and skills.
In Delhi, we spent a night at EmPI, a top Indian business school. Like usual, everybody was very attentive to us and created a cultural program specifically for us. We were able to interact with students our age and learned about their views on marriage, education and the West. Although most of us were terribly sick or tired, we truly enjoyed our time in Northern India. The experiences and people I met here will forever stay with me. I feel that the world could learn a lot from India like their group mindedness and diversity. I went to this trip with the purpose of expanding my global business knowledge and I came back with more than just business facts; I came back with an experience that will affect all areas of my life. Thank you India.
After such an experience, we continued our journey and headed towards Jaipur. In this city, we visited the headquarters of Jaipur Rugs Corporation, a socially responsible company that sells rugs weaved by villagers. The founder’s daughter, Kavita, showed us the company’s operations and guided us through the delicate process of designing, making, checking and ultimately selling the rugs in the USA, Europe, and India. Also, the director of Human Resources took us to one of the villages in Jaipur where rugs are made. This visit was for me very inspiring because not only is the company creating stable jobs for villagers but also, it is paying them justly. Furthermore, it is allowing artisans to continue with their family's traditions and skills.
In Delhi, we spent a night at EmPI, a top Indian business school. Like usual, everybody was very attentive to us and created a cultural program specifically for us. We were able to interact with students our age and learned about their views on marriage, education and the West. Although most of us were terribly sick or tired, we truly enjoyed our time in Northern India. The experiences and people I met here will forever stay with me. I feel that the world could learn a lot from India like their group mindedness and diversity. I went to this trip with the purpose of expanding my global business knowledge and I came back with more than just business facts; I came back with an experience that will affect all areas of my life. Thank you India.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Maneth Dethchan-Manibusan :Northern India
We were in the triangle of India: Delhi, Agra, and Japur. It was the most interesting. Northern India, especially around Japur, is more rural than urban. We visited a village in the state of Rajasthan which produce rugs for Japur Rugs. The "country-side" is beautiful with vast open land of mustard plants. One thing that stood out of our trip to the village was the way the women were covered and had to ask permission to speak to people outside their village. These women did not have the same behaviors or freedom as the ones we have encountered in the past. They were very modest and covered. I recall a conversation with a woman working on a loom. She had stated that working at the loom is her choice and that she can walk away from it whenever she wants, whether to harvest or take care of her family. She was empowered by her work, but yet maintains her culture of modesty in public.
The work that these corporations are doing in Japur is inspiring. Japur Rugs are promoting women empowerment by training these women to eventually be master of the loom at their village, and slowly work their way to corporate. Antoher thing that is really interesting of our visit in Japur was men working in these businesses that promote fair trade and women empowerment. It seems a little confusing as to why there were no women in the company's factory itself. But when asked why that is so, the only response was "it's the culture of India for men to be the ones at work and not away from home." It is different to hear the reason as to why women do not work in businesses away from their families. It upsetted me when an entrepreneur explained to me about her business and why she does not plan of incorporating women in her workforce, but then it occured to me that she is already contributing so much to India with fair trade and the fusion of eastern and western clothing. To brush aside the culture of India in one felt swoop is unlikely.
One of the many exciting things about Northern India is the shopping. One cannot beat the prices and the shopping experience in India. A woman can hone their negotiating skills and management skills in their markets. The skill of negotiating is an art. I have learned it is a give and take as long as one are willing to walk away. This can be applied to life and work. Negotiating is not giving something up or taking something, it is a compromise. At work, women are statistically paid lower for "lack of negotiating" as one reason. But when you have performed well and contributed more than enough, the willingness to walk away can do wonders for your compensation.
The work that these corporations are doing in Japur is inspiring. Japur Rugs are promoting women empowerment by training these women to eventually be master of the loom at their village, and slowly work their way to corporate. Antoher thing that is really interesting of our visit in Japur was men working in these businesses that promote fair trade and women empowerment. It seems a little confusing as to why there were no women in the company's factory itself. But when asked why that is so, the only response was "it's the culture of India for men to be the ones at work and not away from home." It is different to hear the reason as to why women do not work in businesses away from their families. It upsetted me when an entrepreneur explained to me about her business and why she does not plan of incorporating women in her workforce, but then it occured to me that she is already contributing so much to India with fair trade and the fusion of eastern and western clothing. To brush aside the culture of India in one felt swoop is unlikely.
One of the many exciting things about Northern India is the shopping. One cannot beat the prices and the shopping experience in India. A woman can hone their negotiating skills and management skills in their markets. The skill of negotiating is an art. I have learned it is a give and take as long as one are willing to walk away. This can be applied to life and work. Negotiating is not giving something up or taking something, it is a compromise. At work, women are statistically paid lower for "lack of negotiating" as one reason. But when you have performed well and contributed more than enough, the willingness to walk away can do wonders for your compensation.
Deanna in Hyderabad
In Hyderabad, our group visited Dhruva College of Management and participated in the International Conference on Women's Leadership. I remember being completely enthralled with the powerful, articulate women on the panel. They were witty and intelligent, brainstorming pathways to an egalitarian India. In short, the conference gave me hope for the world; if the women in a male-dominated country like India can embrace their feminism and femininity with the same arms, change is entirely possible everywhere else.
In Hyderabad, we also toured Film City. It was fun to see touristy commercialism in India, similar to that one would see in Florida or Hawaii. I noticed the daughters and mothers standing on the side of the rides, and the fathers and sons participating in the ride. This speculation sparked a bit of controversy within the group.
When prompted, some felt that it might be the individual's personal preference to not go on a roller coaster. Some felt it was a result of the male-dominated society discouraging women from participating. Some felt that their husbands did not invite them to participate, or directly told them they couldn't participate. Regardless of the circumstance and origin, the women in Film City at that time were not fulfilling the same roles as men.
It was in Hyderabad that I recognized the different forms of the relationship between femininity and feminism.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Shannon - Northern India
If we’ve learned anything from all of our travel over the past three weeks it has been that there are many differences between northern India and southern India. The cultures different in the languages they speak, the food they eat, the way they dress, the names of celebrations and types of dancing. Facts have proven that that the south in more conservative than the north and because of that the women in the south are better educated than those in the north and increasingly more empowered.
After observing this phenomenon first hand in all different castes I find it somewhat backwards and confusing. I’m not sure if it was just because of the cities we visited in the northern part of the country that made me feel this way. My impression of the cities in the north was that they were more modern, more advanced in a way. Delhi in particular even had a metro system. These cities had high rises and European cars. Compared to the cities in the north the south was much more similar to the impression of the India I got from the pre-departure readings; with the live stock frequently blocking the poorly maintained roads and farmers moving crops with camels and buffaloes.
Based on my encounters and observations the first hand experience I accumulated during the trip I found it completely necessary to say that all stereotypes I had prior to leaving the Unites States have been completely dispelled and that the underlying moral is that appearances can be deceiving.
After observing this phenomenon first hand in all different castes I find it somewhat backwards and confusing. I’m not sure if it was just because of the cities we visited in the northern part of the country that made me feel this way. My impression of the cities in the north was that they were more modern, more advanced in a way. Delhi in particular even had a metro system. These cities had high rises and European cars. Compared to the cities in the north the south was much more similar to the impression of the India I got from the pre-departure readings; with the live stock frequently blocking the poorly maintained roads and farmers moving crops with camels and buffaloes.
Based on my encounters and observations the first hand experience I accumulated during the trip I found it completely necessary to say that all stereotypes I had prior to leaving the Unites States have been completely dispelled and that the underlying moral is that appearances can be deceiving.
Shannon - Hyderabad
Thus far the thing that has made this trip the most interesting for me as a non-management related major is that I’ve been able to give a different perspective on the things we’ve been learning and experiencing. One such occasion was our meeting with a few executives at Basix. First of all Basix is the most successful micro-financing agency in all of India. The goal of the company is to promote livelihood through marketing resources, with a focus on rural women in the under-developed parts of the country.
The part of the presentation where I began to see things from an outsider’s perspective was when one of the executives started explaining certain very impressive statistics. The executive told us that even as an agency that works primarily in lending money at the grass-roots level the company can still report a 99% recovery rate. Also compared to similar companies in the United States which offer only a 100% interest rate, Basix can prosper from an interest rate on the loans of merely 24%.
The executive also mentioned that the women who receive the money are more likely to pay it back entirely and in the shortest amount of time. This fact was the most interesting to me because this topic was exactly what my pre-departure article was written about. These women of rural India are more likely to repay their loans because they feel a need to maintain a good reputation and give a positive impression on their society. Also the way that these women choose to invest their money differs from the men in that they make long term investments with low risk involved all with the intention of paying back the loans and supporting their families.
The part of the presentation where I began to see things from an outsider’s perspective was when one of the executives started explaining certain very impressive statistics. The executive told us that even as an agency that works primarily in lending money at the grass-roots level the company can still report a 99% recovery rate. Also compared to similar companies in the United States which offer only a 100% interest rate, Basix can prosper from an interest rate on the loans of merely 24%.
The executive also mentioned that the women who receive the money are more likely to pay it back entirely and in the shortest amount of time. This fact was the most interesting to me because this topic was exactly what my pre-departure article was written about. These women of rural India are more likely to repay their loans because they feel a need to maintain a good reputation and give a positive impression on their society. Also the way that these women choose to invest their money differs from the men in that they make long term investments with low risk involved all with the intention of paying back the loans and supporting their families.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Rahala - Coimbatore
We reached Coimbatore on the 6TH. It’s been an amazing experience, definitely unforgettable one. This is not my first time in south India, but never really got to see the real culture and hospitality of this region. The culture, food, people, clothing everything is very different compared to the northern region.
Some of the differences that I saw was that the women here were much more soft-spoken than men. In all the other colleges that we visited it seemed that the men were much louder, much more willing to interact with us. One of the college’s that we visited was GIM, they planned a whole day event for us. Starting from the Pongal festival, which is a harvest festival celebrated only in this state. It then continued on to some more traditional dances, conference, and also having lunch on banana leaf. During the conference we presented our views on women empowerment in India along with the other students and faculty members. The presentations here showed very similar problems that we saw in the presentations in northern India. The emphasis was on how women need to be educated so that they can make informed decisions, the discriminations and stereotypes that women face, and how to overcome those.
We also went to an ashram that works primarily for women empowerment; there we met with Dr Veenu who was the in charge. We had a few presentations on how the self help groups (all women run) are giving jobs to women, making them independent entrepreneurs, and at the same time helping run their own families. As Dr. Veenu said educate women and that will educate the whole family.
Some of the differences that I saw was that the women here were much more soft-spoken than men. In all the other colleges that we visited it seemed that the men were much louder, much more willing to interact with us. One of the college’s that we visited was GIM, they planned a whole day event for us. Starting from the Pongal festival, which is a harvest festival celebrated only in this state. It then continued on to some more traditional dances, conference, and also having lunch on banana leaf. During the conference we presented our views on women empowerment in India along with the other students and faculty members. The presentations here showed very similar problems that we saw in the presentations in northern India. The emphasis was on how women need to be educated so that they can make informed decisions, the discriminations and stereotypes that women face, and how to overcome those.
We also went to an ashram that works primarily for women empowerment; there we met with Dr Veenu who was the in charge. We had a few presentations on how the self help groups (all women run) are giving jobs to women, making them independent entrepreneurs, and at the same time helping run their own families. As Dr. Veenu said educate women and that will educate the whole family.
Roxana Siu; Coimbatore; 01/09/09
In Coimbatore, we went to visit an Ngo, Shanti Ashram, and it became utterly apparent to me, the strives that India as a country, is trying to help women, particularly in the rural areas, to become empowered. Their micro-macro business model, which follows the principals of Mahatma Gandhi, seems idealistic, but what is surprising, is that it actually works! The amazing people working here believe that by educating and helping these women save money, this extra expenditure will go towards their children, and in turn, by educating the children, the future of the family and the community will benefit. This NGO goes into rural villages and establishes self help groups that help women to become money makers. I was a bit skeptical at this level of idealism, especially in a country where, until the last decade or so, women leadership and empowerment were non-prevalent. We went to visit some of the self help groups, to see how such a business model was working, and I was taken aback, at how enterprising these women, with little to no education, and they are able to embark on their own businesses to earn money for their family and community. For majority of them, these women even earn more money than their husbands. We went to visit a site in which a self help group created a canteen in a secondary school. This no only helped the women earn money, but provides them with skills in management, budgeting, and most importantly, empowered self esteem. The children attending this school also benefited, by receiving a nutritious snack or meal, where as before, they would go outside to get food from carts alongside the road. Another self help group, when offered the chance to receive an education on making her own bio-technology fertilizer, took it and made a very enterprising business for her. What surprised me the most was her knowledge of marketing the product, in which she did not receive any education for. Upon hearing that she will be receiving visitors form the United States, she hired a photographer to take pictures of us looking at her fertilizer plant. She is now able to market her product in w\such a way that will help her sell even more fertilizer than her competitors! Indians believe that by helping the rural areas, the whole country can be raised economically, morally, and psychographically! I believe that such a mind frame and business model should be taken upon all countries, because such a model can only be a benefit.
Holly Paquette –Coimbatore
Getting the opportunity to explore many different areas of India has really allowed me to see the vast differences in customs and cultures. As soon as we emerged from the airplane in Coimbatore the landscape and surrounding environment differed immensely. Compared to Mumbai, it is a lot hotter and greener with a lot of palm trees. Coimbatore resembles more of a vacation spot while Mumbai is more urban and crowded. The food in Southern India differs as well. We are all getting to try many different vegetarian foods, it is amazing to see how many different ways rice and lentils for example can be prepared. We even had the chance to have one of our meals on banana leaves, which was a great cultural experience.
We have already visited many different schools. All of which have welcomed us with opened arms. Their welcoming has been so grand and spectacular that some moments felt unreal, like we were in a movie. We have been able to part-take in the Pongal Festival, which has been amazing to witness. We were even given Sari’s to wear to fully feel apart of the India experience as well as other traditional Indian outfits.
One of the most interesting parts of the trip so far was when we were able to meet with other students and talk with them one on one. They asked me a lot of questions, which varied in subject matter. It surprised me to get so many different questions. Many students were interested in our presidential election and our economy. It was great to share and compare my thoughts on things to the students here in India. It was amazing to see how much we differ and how much we are similar in our viewpoints. It has also been interesting to learn about Southern India’s viewpoints on women leadership and gender discrimination. Many of Southern India’s views coincided with Mumbai’s however there were some differences as well. Overall my experience here in India has been fantastic and it is unbelievable how nice everyone here is!
Maria Zaman- Coimbatore
Coimbatore, where to start and where to end? Just stepping off the plane itself, I felt such a big difference from Mumbai and Coimbatore. Whereas it was congested and ever so polluted in Mumbai, Coimbatore was serene and covered from top to bottom in lush green. Coimbatore has an abundance of coconut trees and these majestic mountains as a backdrop. Breathtakingly beautiful, I felt as if I had stepped into another realm that was beyond this world.
The two main themes of our visit in Coimbatore consisted of NGOs and interacting with students through the Pongal Festival; an occasion celebrated by Hindus on the 14th of January. We visited two NGOs, one with the objective of educating slum children titled Akansha. The other was one that involves a variety of tasks, ranging from women development and youth leadership to community health and poverty alleviation. Sitting in with the children as they learned about the solar system, I tried with some difficulty to not cry. Knowing that these children had much harder lives than I could ever imagine, I felt guilty to some extent for having so much. Contrary to my emotions, Akansha as an organization does not propagate pity, nor does it feel sorry for these children. It instead feels that each child is just as capable as any other child in being able to succeed.
The two main themes of our visit in Coimbatore consisted of NGOs and interacting with students through the Pongal Festival; an occasion celebrated by Hindus on the 14th of January. We visited two NGOs, one with the objective of educating slum children titled Akansha. The other was one that involves a variety of tasks, ranging from women development and youth leadership to community health and poverty alleviation. Sitting in with the children as they learned about the solar system, I tried with some difficulty to not cry. Knowing that these children had much harder lives than I could ever imagine, I felt guilty to some extent for having so much. Contrary to my emotions, Akansha as an organization does not propagate pity, nor does it feel sorry for these children. It instead feels that each child is just as capable as any other child in being able to succeed.
Elisabeth Pacl -- Coimbatore
Tech update: I am currently working on a Dell w/ a LG flatscreen monitor.
The sights that I have seen since arriving in Coimbatore have blown me away. The first day had the most impact. We met with an NGO, Shanti Ashram that helps women to form self-help groups with the goals of developing skills, confidence and the ability to earn a permanent income. We have heard from many leaders and speakers throughout our days that 90% of the women in the workforce are in the unorganized sector, where there are no benefits, no guarantees for work, no regulations, no assistance etc. These SHG helps the women who might be working dangerous, laboring jobs to developing something much more sustainable. For example, we saw a SHG that taught very young children of the poor rural village community lessons in a small schoolhouse. We then saw a SHG that ran a distribution center for the poor. Thirdly, we saw two women from a SHG who learned the skills required to produce bio-fertilizer and use marketing skills to sell it. We also saw a SHG of 15 women who work in a middle-school canteen selling healthy-snacks for their living. And finally we met with several women from a SHG that developed a pay-for-parking collection outside of the well-known Perur Temple and increased the temple’s revenues by 10%.
All of these women are making more income than their husbands. The men work as laborers and do not seek skills to move higher, while the women are realizing that they cannot survive on their husband’s income alone and use creative ways to earn an income, like the women that we saw from Shanti Ashram. One professor that we heard speak related this story. She had asked a man how he felt about his wife working. He said it was fine, as long as he earned the equivalent of 1 and she earned .75. The professor was shocked and asked him what it totaled. He said 1.75, of course. She responded with, what if your wife earned 2.25? What does that equal? He responded with 2.25, but that he doesn’t ever want his wife to earn more than him. When she asked which income would be better, 1.75 or 2.25 he didn’t want to answer anymore of his questions. The story tells that women can certainly add significantly to their household income, but it is hard for the women to find suitable work, and then once she has, for the husband to accept this.
I am very impressed by all of the women that I have seen throughout my time in Coimbatore; the women in the villages, the women in the temples, the SHG members, the children, the professors, the students, the shopkeepers. Everyone that I have met has struggled to find their place, and then again struggles to secure it.
P.S. I am wearing a creamsicle colored dress-pantsuit thingy with red bangles and a rose in my hair. I just played hand ball with a bunch of MBA students and I fell in a ditch head first. We then were served a full meal by hotel management students. We leave for Hyderbad in a few hours.
The sights that I have seen since arriving in Coimbatore have blown me away. The first day had the most impact. We met with an NGO, Shanti Ashram that helps women to form self-help groups with the goals of developing skills, confidence and the ability to earn a permanent income. We have heard from many leaders and speakers throughout our days that 90% of the women in the workforce are in the unorganized sector, where there are no benefits, no guarantees for work, no regulations, no assistance etc. These SHG helps the women who might be working dangerous, laboring jobs to developing something much more sustainable. For example, we saw a SHG that taught very young children of the poor rural village community lessons in a small schoolhouse. We then saw a SHG that ran a distribution center for the poor. Thirdly, we saw two women from a SHG who learned the skills required to produce bio-fertilizer and use marketing skills to sell it. We also saw a SHG of 15 women who work in a middle-school canteen selling healthy-snacks for their living. And finally we met with several women from a SHG that developed a pay-for-parking collection outside of the well-known Perur Temple and increased the temple’s revenues by 10%.
All of these women are making more income than their husbands. The men work as laborers and do not seek skills to move higher, while the women are realizing that they cannot survive on their husband’s income alone and use creative ways to earn an income, like the women that we saw from Shanti Ashram. One professor that we heard speak related this story. She had asked a man how he felt about his wife working. He said it was fine, as long as he earned the equivalent of 1 and she earned .75. The professor was shocked and asked him what it totaled. He said 1.75, of course. She responded with, what if your wife earned 2.25? What does that equal? He responded with 2.25, but that he doesn’t ever want his wife to earn more than him. When she asked which income would be better, 1.75 or 2.25 he didn’t want to answer anymore of his questions. The story tells that women can certainly add significantly to their household income, but it is hard for the women to find suitable work, and then once she has, for the husband to accept this.
I am very impressed by all of the women that I have seen throughout my time in Coimbatore; the women in the villages, the women in the temples, the SHG members, the children, the professors, the students, the shopkeepers. Everyone that I have met has struggled to find their place, and then again struggles to secure it.
P.S. I am wearing a creamsicle colored dress-pantsuit thingy with red bangles and a rose in my hair. I just played hand ball with a bunch of MBA students and I fell in a ditch head first. We then were served a full meal by hotel management students. We leave for Hyderbad in a few hours.
Shannon -Coimbatore
Although we have only been able to spend a few days in the city of Coimbatore I have noticed significant differences in culture and traditions as compared to Mumbai. All of us individually, finally had hands on experience with the different style of saree draping. On our arrival at GIM (a management school in the local area) a group of girls immediately directed us to their dormitories where we each had our own special dressing room with four or five female students to help us dress. The saree style here is different from that of the northern regions of India in the way they pleat the front and also that they wrap it around from the front to the back. The changes are so subtle though that Professor Gupta had to briefly point it out before I was able to actually see a difference.
Also the south is much more conservative. You will never find the women here dressed in western outfits such as jeans or pants of any sort, nor will you find them wearing t-shirts, sweatshirts etc. The dress code is strictly traditional Indian clothing even in the universities.
Even though I have only been in the country for about a week now and have only been able to experience the culture of two different states I have slowly caught on to the diversity among each state. When traveling in the United States you could drive from state to state and not realize a difference other than a small sign in the side of the rode. Here each state is very unique. Each of the twenty-eight states in India have their own language and cultures and in some cases mannerisms, which I find very intriguing. I only wish that I could be more culturally diverse at home in Boston.
Also the south is much more conservative. You will never find the women here dressed in western outfits such as jeans or pants of any sort, nor will you find them wearing t-shirts, sweatshirts etc. The dress code is strictly traditional Indian clothing even in the universities.
Even though I have only been in the country for about a week now and have only been able to experience the culture of two different states I have slowly caught on to the diversity among each state. When traveling in the United States you could drive from state to state and not realize a difference other than a small sign in the side of the rode. Here each state is very unique. Each of the twenty-eight states in India have their own language and cultures and in some cases mannerisms, which I find very intriguing. I only wish that I could be more culturally diverse at home in Boston.
Daniela Saldana-Coimbatore
Greetings from Coimbatore! This city showed me the rural side of India. Unlike Mumbai, Coimbatore is less crowed and people’s houses have more land where they keep their animals and/or their crops. The most significant aspect of my trip to this lovely city was to learn about the self-help groups (SHG). These groups are formed by women (each group has approximately twelve women) that with the help of NGO’s like Shanti Ashram, are able to create steady jobs, savings and micro loans opportunities for women and their families. For example, one SHG is in charge of the parking lot of a five-hundred-years-old temple, Perui. This group has been able to increase their annual revenue by ten percent and thus becoming role models for their community. Also, in this city I was able to see the acknowledgement for the need of women empowerment. For example, one newspaper, Hindu News, had three articles that addressed the low gender egalitarianism: female infanticide, SHG awards and women empowerment. My stay in Coimbatore was nothing by inspiring. I was able to meet wonderful women that have turned into role models; women who want to leave their mark in life. From this city I take home their life stories, passion and determination.
Deanna in Coimbatore
Deanna in Coimbatore
In my experience, Coimbatore is vastly different than Mumbai. The dining style is much more informal; most South Indians eat with their hands. The style of dress is more conservative and traditional. Women tend to be more soft spoken and have more traditional values, whereas women in Mumbai adopted more Western values.
We’ve done a lot of shopping. I am less compelled to bargain here, as the stores are set up somewhat differently. I have only seen males selling women’s clothes, which strikes me as unusual.
We all got dressed in sarees the other day. A traditional Indian saree is basically a long, beautiful sheet of fabric that is wrapped around a woman in a specific way. There are pleats in the front, and it wraps around the left shoulder. A woman in a saree also has a small shirt underneath, cut off right below the bust with short sleeves. Also, an underskirt is worn. Personally, I am not used to wearing feminine clothing, so getting dressed up was highly unusual and uncomfortable at first. After a few hours, I adapted. Today, I am wearing a very feminine Indian outfit with Indian hoop earrings and bangles. In my more masculine clothing, I am much more of a spectacle. For now, I would rather fit in. At any rate, I am amazed that innumerable women wear sarees every day. I cannot imagine the upkeep.
Our group went to the Shanti Ashram, a non-government organization (NGO) that focuses on empowering women by helping them find jobs. We sipped tea during a very informative presentation, explaining the details, mission statement, and statistics related to the Shanti Ashram. After lunch, we ventured to five different job sites, including one for bio-fertilizer, a canteen, a village school, and rice plant.
One of the most remarkable things I have learned was the system of Indian postal service. There are no house numbers, street name signs, or mailboxes. Instead, mail is addressed to the person’s name and their village or city. The mail workers end up knowing their customers intimately and hand-deliver their mail. Even people in villages get mail, although some people are illiterate. The mail deliverers will actually read the mail to those who are illiterate, then write a responding letter, free of charge.
We have had the opportunity to participate in an international seminar at a technical institute. Each of us sat on a stage in groups of three and shared our views on our experience in India. I explained how my views about feminism have changed since I’ve been here, and that empowerment is not equivalent to abandonment of traditional values. For example, I have always seen the role of a housewife to be disempowering, submissive to patriarchy, and regressive to feminist ideals. However, I have met many women who emulate empowerment while choosing to take on the role of a housewife. One of the most inspiring, brilliant women I have met decided not to pursue her Masters in favor of getting married to her husband.
Marriage and family are sacred in India, and are of a much higher value. When two people are married, it symbolizes two souls combining for a greater good. It is the single most epic occasion of any person’s life. In addition, arranged marriages are not considered to be oppressive or unjust. Rather, some students I have spoken to have expressed their support for arranged marriages.
While visiting the technological institute seminar, one member of our group sat in a larger group of Indian students for a question-and-answer session. In context of the discussion about marriage and dating, I asked, “Would you prefer a more Western style or a traditional Indian style when it comes to dating and marriage?” The group, mostly composed of males, replied, “Western-style for dating, Indian style for marriage.” I will probably analyze the response later.
Right now, I am trying to keep a more open mind and accept different forms of womens’ empowerment. I am especially interested in President Pratibha Patil, the first female Indian president. Time is dwindling, so I must stop. I will be sure to write more later.
In my experience, Coimbatore is vastly different than Mumbai. The dining style is much more informal; most South Indians eat with their hands. The style of dress is more conservative and traditional. Women tend to be more soft spoken and have more traditional values, whereas women in Mumbai adopted more Western values.
We’ve done a lot of shopping. I am less compelled to bargain here, as the stores are set up somewhat differently. I have only seen males selling women’s clothes, which strikes me as unusual.
We all got dressed in sarees the other day. A traditional Indian saree is basically a long, beautiful sheet of fabric that is wrapped around a woman in a specific way. There are pleats in the front, and it wraps around the left shoulder. A woman in a saree also has a small shirt underneath, cut off right below the bust with short sleeves. Also, an underskirt is worn. Personally, I am not used to wearing feminine clothing, so getting dressed up was highly unusual and uncomfortable at first. After a few hours, I adapted. Today, I am wearing a very feminine Indian outfit with Indian hoop earrings and bangles. In my more masculine clothing, I am much more of a spectacle. For now, I would rather fit in. At any rate, I am amazed that innumerable women wear sarees every day. I cannot imagine the upkeep.
Our group went to the Shanti Ashram, a non-government organization (NGO) that focuses on empowering women by helping them find jobs. We sipped tea during a very informative presentation, explaining the details, mission statement, and statistics related to the Shanti Ashram. After lunch, we ventured to five different job sites, including one for bio-fertilizer, a canteen, a village school, and rice plant.
One of the most remarkable things I have learned was the system of Indian postal service. There are no house numbers, street name signs, or mailboxes. Instead, mail is addressed to the person’s name and their village or city. The mail workers end up knowing their customers intimately and hand-deliver their mail. Even people in villages get mail, although some people are illiterate. The mail deliverers will actually read the mail to those who are illiterate, then write a responding letter, free of charge.
We have had the opportunity to participate in an international seminar at a technical institute. Each of us sat on a stage in groups of three and shared our views on our experience in India. I explained how my views about feminism have changed since I’ve been here, and that empowerment is not equivalent to abandonment of traditional values. For example, I have always seen the role of a housewife to be disempowering, submissive to patriarchy, and regressive to feminist ideals. However, I have met many women who emulate empowerment while choosing to take on the role of a housewife. One of the most inspiring, brilliant women I have met decided not to pursue her Masters in favor of getting married to her husband.
Marriage and family are sacred in India, and are of a much higher value. When two people are married, it symbolizes two souls combining for a greater good. It is the single most epic occasion of any person’s life. In addition, arranged marriages are not considered to be oppressive or unjust. Rather, some students I have spoken to have expressed their support for arranged marriages.
While visiting the technological institute seminar, one member of our group sat in a larger group of Indian students for a question-and-answer session. In context of the discussion about marriage and dating, I asked, “Would you prefer a more Western style or a traditional Indian style when it comes to dating and marriage?” The group, mostly composed of males, replied, “Western-style for dating, Indian style for marriage.” I will probably analyze the response later.
Right now, I am trying to keep a more open mind and accept different forms of womens’ empowerment. I am especially interested in President Pratibha Patil, the first female Indian president. Time is dwindling, so I must stop. I will be sure to write more later.
Maneth Dethchan-Manibusan: Coimbatore
The city is much more conservative than our previous stay at Mumbai. The students here are co-ed but their behaviors are different than that of Somaiya College. The males and females here are separated at events and assemblies, whereas in Somaiya they interact with each other. The way the two cities wear their sarees are different as well. Mumbai students wore jeans and t-shirts and what ever they would like to wear; and the students here where sarees or ethnic garbs. Their food and the way they eat are different. It’s complex to believe these are cities within one country.
We visited Shanti Ashram, which is a NGO (Non-Government Organization) that provides empowerment and education to female child and their mothers in rural areas. We had visited five sites that this organization helped assemble to empower regular housewives to earn more income for their families. These groups of women are called Self Help Groups. They earn an average of 2000 rupees a month, which is more than what they were earning as housewives. Although they are now earning a living as entrepreneurs, they have not forgotten their family social responsibilities.
I admire these women. I realize I cannot look at these women and their values with my western thinking. They are wonderful women that translate empowerment to us all. I truly feel conflicted at our first encounter. I later realized they are entrepreneurs in their own right. They work when they want to while taking care of their families. I want to share an observation about the treatment of women and men that I have noticed. An aunt was called to sit next to us but her younger nephew pushed her aside and sat down with his uncle instead. It shocked me and surprised me. It was not only the treatment of a women but treatment of an elder. Although this may not happen all the time but this was still my western thinking. Maybe it was normal in the culture or playful in their family, but it was highly unusual for me as an outsider.
I speak again of their hospitality and generosity. Everywhere we have gone, the people there are so nice and helpful. They are loving and accepting. They enjoy talents such as singing and dancing. The students here are like any other students in the west, with their hobbies and entertainment. Through various cultural festivals, we have seen they enjoy singing, dancing, and a form of pinata.
We visited Shanti Ashram, which is a NGO (Non-Government Organization) that provides empowerment and education to female child and their mothers in rural areas. We had visited five sites that this organization helped assemble to empower regular housewives to earn more income for their families. These groups of women are called Self Help Groups. They earn an average of 2000 rupees a month, which is more than what they were earning as housewives. Although they are now earning a living as entrepreneurs, they have not forgotten their family social responsibilities.
I admire these women. I realize I cannot look at these women and their values with my western thinking. They are wonderful women that translate empowerment to us all. I truly feel conflicted at our first encounter. I later realized they are entrepreneurs in their own right. They work when they want to while taking care of their families. I want to share an observation about the treatment of women and men that I have noticed. An aunt was called to sit next to us but her younger nephew pushed her aside and sat down with his uncle instead. It shocked me and surprised me. It was not only the treatment of a women but treatment of an elder. Although this may not happen all the time but this was still my western thinking. Maybe it was normal in the culture or playful in their family, but it was highly unusual for me as an outsider.
I speak again of their hospitality and generosity. Everywhere we have gone, the people there are so nice and helpful. They are loving and accepting. They enjoy talents such as singing and dancing. The students here are like any other students in the west, with their hobbies and entertainment. Through various cultural festivals, we have seen they enjoy singing, dancing, and a form of pinata.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Elisabeth Pacl - Mumbai
Liz Pacl - Mumbai
I am currently typing this blog on a Gateway P.C. tower which has a floppy disk drive connected to a Samtron 56V, and using WordPad as my word processor (which lacks spell check--I've done my best) and the machine sounds like a freight-train. The internet is running at 100mbps, but it's about as slllllllow aaaaaas molllllllasses.
Anyways, onto my blog:
Although I experienced many surprising and exciting events, places and people here, there were a few events that made the most impact on my visit in Mumbai. I was most impressed by the academic panel that we listened to and spoke with during our first day in Mumbai. We had a panel of four women professors speaking to us on a range of topics that are greatly important to current India. The two topics that were of great interest to me were women entrepreneurship and foeticide. During the discussion on women entrepreneurship we heard about how the ratios of women entrepreneurs are low, which I recognize as being similar to the U.S. However, it seems to me that the types of women entrepreneurs are different than those in the U.S. The women in India are almost singularly in areas of cultural/social entrepreneurship. I am very interested in how women entrepreneurs find financing for their ventures, as I know that it is much more difficult for women in the U.S.to find financing, over men. I asked the panelists and they responded with the overwhelming surprise that there are many organizations that are offering venture capital opportunities for women, like Marashtra, NavaBean, and the MCED.
The second topic that I had interest in was foeticide. Another professor spoke on the subject starting my stating that 55% of India's population is under 25 years of age. This blew me away. She spoke about the ethical, social, and legal situation with middle to upper class urban women choosing to abort female children after a prenatal sex-determination. I was unaware of the rates at which these incidents were occurring and was interested to hear about the many NPOs (not-for-profit-organizations) and NGO (non-governmental-organizations) that are currently becoming involved in taking action to help eliminate this phenomenon. The most profound statement that this professor made was "The first step, and most important step, is to create change agents. Once this has begun, we will be on our way."
I'm currently freezing, which is common as the AC's are extraordinarily powerful here as it gets so hot outside. According to one classmate, I look like a safari-lady, another one said I look like an archaeologist. It might be the last time that I wear khakis. :)
Chalo!!! (that's Hindi for "let's go") which might not sound like a good parting phrase but it is the extent of my language after 3 days--aside from food names that is!!!)
I am currently typing this blog on a Gateway P.C. tower which has a floppy disk drive connected to a Samtron 56V, and using WordPad as my word processor (which lacks spell check--I've done my best) and the machine sounds like a freight-train. The internet is running at 100mbps, but it's about as slllllllow aaaaaas molllllllasses.
Anyways, onto my blog:
Although I experienced many surprising and exciting events, places and people here, there were a few events that made the most impact on my visit in Mumbai. I was most impressed by the academic panel that we listened to and spoke with during our first day in Mumbai. We had a panel of four women professors speaking to us on a range of topics that are greatly important to current India. The two topics that were of great interest to me were women entrepreneurship and foeticide. During the discussion on women entrepreneurship we heard about how the ratios of women entrepreneurs are low, which I recognize as being similar to the U.S. However, it seems to me that the types of women entrepreneurs are different than those in the U.S. The women in India are almost singularly in areas of cultural/social entrepreneurship. I am very interested in how women entrepreneurs find financing for their ventures, as I know that it is much more difficult for women in the U.S.to find financing, over men. I asked the panelists and they responded with the overwhelming surprise that there are many organizations that are offering venture capital opportunities for women, like Marashtra, NavaBean, and the MCED.
The second topic that I had interest in was foeticide. Another professor spoke on the subject starting my stating that 55% of India's population is under 25 years of age. This blew me away. She spoke about the ethical, social, and legal situation with middle to upper class urban women choosing to abort female children after a prenatal sex-determination. I was unaware of the rates at which these incidents were occurring and was interested to hear about the many NPOs (not-for-profit-organizations) and NGO (non-governmental-organizations) that are currently becoming involved in taking action to help eliminate this phenomenon. The most profound statement that this professor made was "The first step, and most important step, is to create change agents. Once this has begun, we will be on our way."
I'm currently freezing, which is common as the AC's are extraordinarily powerful here as it gets so hot outside. According to one classmate, I look like a safari-lady, another one said I look like an archaeologist. It might be the last time that I wear khakis. :)
Chalo!!! (that's Hindi for "let's go") which might not sound like a good parting phrase but it is the extent of my language after 3 days--aside from food names that is!!!)
Holly Paquette - Mumbai
Before coming to India I did not know what to expect, I had a few assumptions about what India would be like. So far in the short time I have been here some of those assumptions have been proven right while others have not. What has surprised me the most is how much I have learned and experienced in the past few days. Getting the opportunity to meet people from many different backgrounds has really opened my eyes to how diverse India is. It is amazing to learn and see how there is not a lot of separation between the rich and the poor. You can look down one street and see the slums(as they call it here in India) and higher class housing coinciding with one another.
It has also been interesting to hear and learn first hand how Indian women feel about their culture in terms of gender discrimination. Before our trip to India I read a lot about gender discrimination and how it is negatively affecting Indian women in the workplace. What was shocking to learn was that most of the Indian women I have met and spoken with have had a positive view on the situation. Listening to them talk was inspirational because they exuded strength, confidence, and power. They made it clear to us that many women in India are breaking through the "glass ceiling" by becoming political leaders, presidents of CEO companies, leaders in and out of the workforce as well as entrepreneurs. It was interesting to hear their views and opinions on this matter because a lot of what they had to say was the opposite of many of the pre-departure readings. One woman said "Women don't want to be considered lower than men, and we are proving that we are not more and more each day". So far our trip to India has been an eye opener and I am gaining a lot of insight on the culture and customs of India. I am excited to continue our educational journey to the next destination of Coimbatore.
It has also been interesting to hear and learn first hand how Indian women feel about their culture in terms of gender discrimination. Before our trip to India I read a lot about gender discrimination and how it is negatively affecting Indian women in the workplace. What was shocking to learn was that most of the Indian women I have met and spoken with have had a positive view on the situation. Listening to them talk was inspirational because they exuded strength, confidence, and power. They made it clear to us that many women in India are breaking through the "glass ceiling" by becoming political leaders, presidents of CEO companies, leaders in and out of the workforce as well as entrepreneurs. It was interesting to hear their views and opinions on this matter because a lot of what they had to say was the opposite of many of the pre-departure readings. One woman said "Women don't want to be considered lower than men, and we are proving that we are not more and more each day". So far our trip to India has been an eye opener and I am gaining a lot of insight on the culture and customs of India. I am excited to continue our educational journey to the next destination of Coimbatore.
Daniela Saldana-Mumbai
Greetings from Mumbai! These past three days (aside from exhausting me more than a day in Disneyland) have made me understand more about the reasons behind India’s fast economic growth. One of the reasons is India’s more practical educational system. On the first day, we were able to interact with junior college students (in our system, these kids would be in 11th grade) which have been already exposed to business theory like financial analysis and managerial accounting and practiced such theory in group projects. Also, I learned that students go to school Monday thru Saturday from around 9 AM to 5 PM which gives them more time to practice concepts in class. Aside from having a tight academic curriculum, Indian students find the time to volunteer and work on projects in the community because they want to help those in need. For example, many students volunteer at educational programs because they believe that educating the youth will empower and develop the country. Out of these reasons, I found the high level of social responsibility to be India’s “secret ingredient” for its “fast economic growth recipe.” Because everybody cares, everybody benefits. My time in Mumbai has given me the opportunity to see a side of India which has inspired me to become a better citizen of the world.
Maneth Dethchan-Manibusan: Mumbai
While in Mumbai, interactions with the students and faculty of Somaiya College helped me understand the new role of women in Mumbai. The students perceived us, students of the United States, to have stereotypes of Indian women and India itself. But it turned out that they also have stereotypes of women in the United States. To eliminate these stereotypes questions of India and the United States were exchanged. One instance was about ketchup. We were having Indian dinner and a Somaiya student said they would put ketchup on a side dish. I respnded with "what?". It was meant as "why would you want to change the wonderful flavors of Indian cuisine?". But it was mistaken as a stereotype of India lacking ketchup. The student and I laughed about the misunderstanding and learned that she too like ketchup on everything.
A meeting with Amrita Somaiya helped me understand the controversy of traditional women roles and the modern world. Incorprating family into one's work is not a regression in society but a progression. To be able to take care of one's family and change certain aspects of society (work) is incredible. Amirta has given meaning to chosing to stay at home and raising a family as an educated woman. She helped me understand that with an education she had received she can decide to stay home and be perfectly content with it. As I am a mother and feel strongly that my family comes first before my career; the attainment of an education is also a must for me to motivate my child to achieve the same standards, then she can make her own choices in the world.
P.S. With all the things we have seen and heard about women empowerment, I feel organizations in Mumbai: Nareshwadi, Laadi, Akanksha Centre, etc., are on its way to changing the lives of women in rural and low income families.
A meeting with Amrita Somaiya helped me understand the controversy of traditional women roles and the modern world. Incorprating family into one's work is not a regression in society but a progression. To be able to take care of one's family and change certain aspects of society (work) is incredible. Amirta has given meaning to chosing to stay at home and raising a family as an educated woman. She helped me understand that with an education she had received she can decide to stay home and be perfectly content with it. As I am a mother and feel strongly that my family comes first before my career; the attainment of an education is also a must for me to motivate my child to achieve the same standards, then she can make her own choices in the world.
P.S. With all the things we have seen and heard about women empowerment, I feel organizations in Mumbai: Nareshwadi, Laadi, Akanksha Centre, etc., are on its way to changing the lives of women in rural and low income families.
Mumbai - Maria Zaman
Maria Zaman - Mumbai
Even before coming into Mumbai, I already knew that upon landing and touring the infamous city, I would constantly be making comparisons between India and Pakistan. Being an avid fan of Bollywood, knowing that I was going into the heart of the film industry was exciting enough to get me psyched. For one, Mumbai Airport was quite large, especially in comparison to Islamabad Airport. It most definitely resembled an international airport, more so holding similarities with Pakistan's Karachi Airport. Something which struck me early on once in the airport, was the extensive construction taking place; the airport was trying to be bigger and better through renovation.
We were greeted with a beggar even before boarding the bus in the form of a middle aged woman clutching a baby to her side, visibly pregnant herself. She made her rounds asking each of us for money, yet we were unable to provide her with any monetary support. Of course I felt bad, but then again this is the sad reality for not just India, but for many developing countries. Glued to the window on our way to the Somaiya University Hostel, dimly lit streets, congested stalls, and a lively environment surrounded us. Still grappling with the side effects of the fourteen hour flight, I fought the urge to fall asleep during the bus ride, but to no avail. Jostled by the bus stopping, I awoke to enter the hostel, entered my room, and fell asleep wondering what the heck awaited me.
Even before coming into Mumbai, I already knew that upon landing and touring the infamous city, I would constantly be making comparisons between India and Pakistan. Being an avid fan of Bollywood, knowing that I was going into the heart of the film industry was exciting enough to get me psyched. For one, Mumbai Airport was quite large, especially in comparison to Islamabad Airport. It most definitely resembled an international airport, more so holding similarities with Pakistan's Karachi Airport. Something which struck me early on once in the airport, was the extensive construction taking place; the airport was trying to be bigger and better through renovation.
We were greeted with a beggar even before boarding the bus in the form of a middle aged woman clutching a baby to her side, visibly pregnant herself. She made her rounds asking each of us for money, yet we were unable to provide her with any monetary support. Of course I felt bad, but then again this is the sad reality for not just India, but for many developing countries. Glued to the window on our way to the Somaiya University Hostel, dimly lit streets, congested stalls, and a lively environment surrounded us. Still grappling with the side effects of the fourteen hour flight, I fought the urge to fall asleep during the bus ride, but to no avail. Jostled by the bus stopping, I awoke to enter the hostel, entered my room, and fell asleep wondering what the heck awaited me.
Shannon - Mumbai
We've been in Mumbai for a couple days now and I have been introduced to so many different cultures and traditions that I am not even sure where to begin. As far as the culture shock goes I have to say that Simmons has almost over prepared us in a way. Yes all five of my senses have been overwhelmed and jet-lag has taken its toll mentally and physically. Yet after all of the pre-departure readings, movies, books and reflections I'm not as surprised by my reactions to the cultural differences as I thought I should be. I have been so well informed I think it's safe to say I learned as much about Indian culture if not more than what I know about my own.
For example the second day we were here we visited a theme park with water attractions. Knowing that the theme park and other swimming opurtunities would be available to us on this trip I still did not pack my suit. Before hand I knew enough about the culture to understand that any of the bathing suits I owned would not be socially acceptable to wear in public especially at this family oriented park. In order to prevent giving the assumption that I am not a modest person I only want to explain that the swim suit I own is nothing extravagant or outlandish. My suit is typical of the uniforms you would find at my high school swim meets: plain, black and one piece of material. When we entered the water aspect of the theme park I was not surprised by the fact that women and girls were running around covered in soaking wet outfits consisting of pants a long-sleeve shirt and even the occaisional head scarf. Nor was I surprised by the fact that they sold these "costumes" to women who did not have the appropriate attire. I was however surprised by what the men were swimming in. The men at this park. regardless of age were literally running around half naked. To spare the details lets just say that the suit I chose to leave at home had more materal than what most of the men were wearing.
Not to say that the choice to wear these "costumes" were not made by the women wearing them. Personally I found it hard to beleive that out of all of the women in this park not one of them wore anything even revelaing their shoulders. Especially when it was socially acceptable for the men to be so exposed. I can not personally reflect any more on this topic because I was just merely a spectator with no personal connection to the situation. But if I got the chance to ask some of the women young and old with out offending them I would be curious to know how they would dress if they were to visit a water park in the United States. If they would feel odd if they choose to wear their bathing "costumes". Or if they did decide to wear something slightly more revealing if it was because they felt pressured by all of the attention they probably would get otherwise.
For example the second day we were here we visited a theme park with water attractions. Knowing that the theme park and other swimming opurtunities would be available to us on this trip I still did not pack my suit. Before hand I knew enough about the culture to understand that any of the bathing suits I owned would not be socially acceptable to wear in public especially at this family oriented park. In order to prevent giving the assumption that I am not a modest person I only want to explain that the swim suit I own is nothing extravagant or outlandish. My suit is typical of the uniforms you would find at my high school swim meets: plain, black and one piece of material. When we entered the water aspect of the theme park I was not surprised by the fact that women and girls were running around covered in soaking wet outfits consisting of pants a long-sleeve shirt and even the occaisional head scarf. Nor was I surprised by the fact that they sold these "costumes" to women who did not have the appropriate attire. I was however surprised by what the men were swimming in. The men at this park. regardless of age were literally running around half naked. To spare the details lets just say that the suit I chose to leave at home had more materal than what most of the men were wearing.
Not to say that the choice to wear these "costumes" were not made by the women wearing them. Personally I found it hard to beleive that out of all of the women in this park not one of them wore anything even revelaing their shoulders. Especially when it was socially acceptable for the men to be so exposed. I can not personally reflect any more on this topic because I was just merely a spectator with no personal connection to the situation. But if I got the chance to ask some of the women young and old with out offending them I would be curious to know how they would dress if they were to visit a water park in the United States. If they would feel odd if they choose to wear their bathing "costumes". Or if they did decide to wear something slightly more revealing if it was because they felt pressured by all of the attention they probably would get otherwise.
Roxana Siu; January 5, 2010; Mumbai
I left the U.S. with preconceived notions of India, particularly the women and their daily lives. I was under the impression due to the media, of the high patriarchal society in the Indian culture, and the degrading role of women. I was expecting to see women meekly following men and men running the scheme of things such as business and commerce. According the stereotypes, women were relegated the role of housewives, and I believed such stereotypes. However, on my very first day in Mumbai, I met empowered women who were the top of their graduate management program and esteemed professors who not only broke my stereotype, but explained to us the strives women have taken to succeed in a patriarchal society and the leadership and empowerment, and the struggles the have faced. The young women I met didn't even feel such gender barriers. However, they did explain to us that what the media portray exists within the rural areas of India. Fortunately, there are NGO programs that acknowledge the problems and are making strives in helping young girls in those areas receive an education and help them with the impression that women are worth much more than just in a family context. Such programs help young girls in those areas where women empowerment are non-existent. The head way women are making in India in terms of leadership and empowerment is truly tremendous. Don't get me wrong that women still have a very long way to go in terms of gender equality, and that sentiment can be applied to the whole world, but the rate at which women empowerment had been making head way in the Indian culture is inspirational. I am cheering and am supporting and looking forward to the future of the women in India and how they integrate their integral importance in their country, as India strives for a better economic market. Indian women can be the catalyst for breaking not only the glass ceiling, but maybe also the whole of gender barriers.
Rahala : Mumbai
We arrived at the Somaiya campus at midnight on the second of January. This whole experience in Mumbai has been mostly expected since I was born and raised in India and have visited Mumbai several times. It was my first time at the campus, the hospitality that we received from the time we landed till now has been amazing and I am very thankful them for doing all the hard work that they did for us. Growing in up India I never appreciated all the things that were done for us here. Now that I look at this from an outsiders perspective I realized how spoiled I was as a child.
Other issues such as the gender equality and poverty in India. I didn't really see much difference in these issues, but i felt as if I was more aware of it this time and saw that there were more initiatives being taken to resolve them. I learned about how the urban women are changing and progressing as leaders while managing their home life's. The panel discussion that we had on campus helped me understand where the stereotypes of women in India come from. One of the women said that for the women in America getting a higher education is security but for women in India getting married is seen as security. This made a lot of sense to me helped me understand why families especially rural want to marry off their daughter at a young age.
We also got to do a lot of fun stuff such as shopping, going to an amusement/water park, and interaction with the local student. I got to do bargaining on my own for the first time. The interaction with students was the best part, learning about their college as well as their daily life style. It was also interesting to hear from the students what they thought of us and the stereotypes that they had about Americans.
Other issues such as the gender equality and poverty in India. I didn't really see much difference in these issues, but i felt as if I was more aware of it this time and saw that there were more initiatives being taken to resolve them. I learned about how the urban women are changing and progressing as leaders while managing their home life's. The panel discussion that we had on campus helped me understand where the stereotypes of women in India come from. One of the women said that for the women in America getting a higher education is security but for women in India getting married is seen as security. This made a lot of sense to me helped me understand why families especially rural want to marry off their daughter at a young age.
We also got to do a lot of fun stuff such as shopping, going to an amusement/water park, and interaction with the local student. I got to do bargaining on my own for the first time. The interaction with students was the best part, learning about their college as well as their daily life style. It was also interesting to hear from the students what they thought of us and the stereotypes that they had about Americans.
Deanna in Mumbai
It was very easy to become overwhelmed with the culture upon arrival. At first, "women empowerment" was defined within my own ethnocentrism. I found myself comparing the local traditions to ideals thousands of miles away. Within a few hours, I decided to observe rather than perceive and judge.
Indian women have found empowerment in three environments--urban slums, remote rural areas, and urban educated areas. Though the processes differ from those utilized in the United States, the outcome is powerful.
Progressive non-profit organizations have challenged the traditional patriarchy by focusing on children's education. More specifically, women of various statuses and careers volunteer at the NGO Akanksha (shown right).
Akanksha focuses on children from low-income areas and provides them with opportunities to change their futures; activities include thoroughly learning English, exploring artistic expression, and socializing with different individuals. Over a long period of time, the program has a positive effect on a child's self-esteem and chances of becoming a more successful person. Prior research had aquainted me with the ubiquity of low-income education. However, I was very impressed and emotionally touched by the children's enthusiasm and volunteers' dedication. Without a doubt, the experience was much more profound than reading a few articles.
Another aspect of interest was the general temperment of the local women.
While maintaining traditional femininity, the urban educated women here at SIMSR (shown right) spoke eloquently and intelligently. They held interesting conversations and expressed their myriad experiences relevant to the current topic. For example, most women had professional jobs while participating in NGO projects and maintaining a healthy family life. Just conversing with these women made me feel lazy and unaccomplished, in effect inspiring me to take on more responsibilities.
The cultural dedication to social responsibility prevailed throughout in Mumbai. Whether it was the hospitality of the staff or the passion of the volunteers, I am both impressed and beguiled. If I can take anything back to the States, it will be the message of social responsibility.
My questions thus far are as follows:
*How do other Indian women portray their femininity in harmony with their empowerment?
*How do brothers/fathers/husbands feel about women's success?
*What messages from society are most noticable/prevalent to you, as an educated urbanized woman? (For example, images portrayed in media, general stereotypes and biases, news reports.)
*What issues are most important to you? (Examples, politics, gender equality, education, finances)
I'm sure some of these will be answered along the way. Still, I'm excited to learn.
Indian women have found empowerment in three environments--urban slums, remote rural areas, and urban educated areas. Though the processes differ from those utilized in the United States, the outcome is powerful.
Progressive non-profit organizations have challenged the traditional patriarchy by focusing on children's education. More specifically, women of various statuses and careers volunteer at the NGO Akanksha (shown right).
Akanksha focuses on children from low-income areas and provides them with opportunities to change their futures; activities include thoroughly learning English, exploring artistic expression, and socializing with different individuals. Over a long period of time, the program has a positive effect on a child's self-esteem and chances of becoming a more successful person. Prior research had aquainted me with the ubiquity of low-income education. However, I was very impressed and emotionally touched by the children's enthusiasm and volunteers' dedication. Without a doubt, the experience was much more profound than reading a few articles.Another aspect of interest was the general temperment of the local women.
While maintaining traditional femininity, the urban educated women here at SIMSR (shown right) spoke eloquently and intelligently. They held interesting conversations and expressed their myriad experiences relevant to the current topic. For example, most women had professional jobs while participating in NGO projects and maintaining a healthy family life. Just conversing with these women made me feel lazy and unaccomplished, in effect inspiring me to take on more responsibilities.
The cultural dedication to social responsibility prevailed throughout in Mumbai. Whether it was the hospitality of the staff or the passion of the volunteers, I am both impressed and beguiled. If I can take anything back to the States, it will be the message of social responsibility.
My questions thus far are as follows:
*How do other Indian women portray their femininity in harmony with their empowerment?
*How do brothers/fathers/husbands feel about women's success?
*What messages from society are most noticable/prevalent to you, as an educated urbanized woman? (For example, images portrayed in media, general stereotypes and biases, news reports.)
*What issues are most important to you? (Examples, politics, gender equality, education, finances)
I'm sure some of these will be answered along the way. Still, I'm excited to learn.
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