Women’s Day Celebration

Women’s Day celebrations are also held in the villages by women’s groups in various ways. Different groups in a village join together and organise collective celebrations which include performances, games, and sports that bring them closer together and discuss the issues they all face. The general public and the government representatives are invited to showcase their talents and skills in organising events.

Impact

These celebrations leave a permanent footprint in the minds of the women and the communities. In addition, the festival performances are a cultural breakthrough for these women, as married women are discouraged from being on the stage in public.

When we attend the Women’s festival at AVAG, we become really free and expressive and though we are apprehensive to share this with our family, they take it in a positive light. When our family appreciates, that is the recognition we get. Even though I fell on stage while dancing, I did not quit since I want to set a good example for my daughters. I feel familiar with all the women, the performance is a collective effort. This is the recognition we strive for.

- Shyamala, Women’s club member, Irumbai

I am always willing to join the Women's Day celebration at AVAG. It is a symbol of our solidarity. Even though I have challenges in mobility, I never miss participating in this program. I can visualize my power while seeing my group members playing in various sports competitions and getting in the struggle and grabbing prizes for the group. It gives me inspiration and motivation. Great day to enjoy and feel dignified throughout life as a woman and as a physically challenged person.

- Thenmozhi, WSHG member

When we participate in sports and games we feel empowered and start to believe in our strengths.We do not feel limited and the power of collectives is hard to be expressed with words