IWB’s section “Censored” features real women narrating real stories. Stories, which are usually censored by society, are given a platform.
There is absolutely no room for judgment or condemnation. Women can open up about their personal issues, reach epiphanies, inspire women all around the world, and seek expert advice. Read on, and get your dosage of empowerment.
Yesterday, one of our readers contacted us after reading about our ongoing campaign
#BlackAndWhiteHoli, where we showcase how the fear of harassment makes Holi devoid of colours for women. Married for three months now, Naina (name changed), shared with us how she will be forever scarred by this festival of colours.
#SheSays
It was my first Holi with my in-laws since my marriage to Ravi (name changed) and I had been told that as the new bahu, I must oblige and celebrate the day with their relatives. I was never a big fan of playing with colours, but as the daughter-in-law, I was told it was my duty to keep the rishtedaars happy.
Since five in the morning, all the women in the house were up, preparing for the day ahead- decorations, colors, sweets, thandai, etc. Caught up in the preparations, I had lost the little apprehensions I had about playing Holi. As everyone from my in-laws’ extended family arrived, my mother-in-law and sister-in-law took me aside.
“Listen Naina, everyone is here now. When the celebrations start, don’t protest or argue, don’t be disrespectful by saying no. Just let them do what they want, let there be peace in the house,” my mother-in-law told me.
“Yes Bhabhi, just bear it. It will be over soon,” added my sister-in-law.
Unable to understand the meaning behind their words, I followed them as they entered the front lawn where everyone else was playing Holi. But the second I entered, most of them- my husband’s uncles, cousins, and friends- made a beeline for me. “Humein toh Bhabhi ke saath Holi khelni hai!” said Mehul (name changed), one of my husband’s cousins.