By IANS,
New Delhi : Women are no longer the weaker sex and this Independence Day is one more occasion to celebrate the fact that they have come a long way from being just traditional homemakers, women designers in the capital said as India enters its 63rd year of freedom.
“We (women) have come a long way. From being typical housewives to successful entrepreneurs – we are successful, confident and are able to strike a balance between our professional and personal life as well,” fashion designer Ritu Kumar told IANS.
Kumar has been in the fashion industry for more than 30 years and specialises in couture. Her work mainly revolves around highlighting Indian craftsmanship.
Extolling women to be fearless, designer Leena Singh of designer duo Ashima-Leena said today’s women should talk openly about sexual harassment at the work place.
“Freedom from sexual harassment at work place should be of utmost importance for any woman. They should never be shy of reporting any such case and should never allow their bosses to manipulate them,” Leena said.
She agreed with Kumar that women had gone places, but added a warning.
“No doubt that women are making a mark in every field, but they do have this tendency of getting carried away by glamorous lifestyles. They should free their mind from these materialistic things and should devote some time for the betterment of society,” said Leena, who apart from fashion designing also works for slum children.
According to fellow designer Reynu Taandon, every women should celebrate Independence Day because they have suffered a lot of discrimination in the past.
“There were days when we were called the weaker sex. The word no more exists because we have proved our worth and what we are capable of doing. Earlier all CEOs and top bosses were men but look at today’s scenario – women are everywhere and are giving tough competition to their male counterparts,” said Taandon who is known for her pret line.
Rina Dhaka echoed the sentiment. “We have definitely proved ourselves. But we should be able to strike a balance between our personal and professional life as well.
“Also every woman should be able to follow her heart and should believe in herself and her capabilities,” she said.
Alpana of label Azara was of the view that the psyche of Indians had changed and women no longer like to suppress their desires and ambitions.
“Today women are more bold and independent about the choices they make. They are confident and follow their heart,” Alpana said.