Review: The Evolving Tapestry of Indian Women’s Lifestyle and Culture
- Gender-based violence: Indian women face significant risks of domestic violence, harassment, and assault, with 30% of women aged 15-49 years reporting experiencing physical violence, according to the NFHS 2019-21.
- Limited access to education and employment: Women in India often face barriers in accessing quality education and employment opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.
- Healthcare and reproductive rights: Indian women face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services, including reproductive healthcare, with 20% of women aged 15-49 years reporting unmet needs for family planning, according to the NFHS 2019-21.
Traditionally, Indian women have played a vital role in the family and society, often expected to manage household chores, care for children, and support their husbands. In many Indian households, women are still expected to prioritize family duties over personal aspirations. However, this has not always been the case. In ancient India, women enjoyed a relatively high status, with many notable female figures, such as Queen Lakshmibai and Rani Rashmoni, playing important roles in politics, social movements, and cultural life.
Symbolic Adornments: