How to Trust your Intuition when You're Making a Decision
Once I gave the headphones a thorough once-over exam, I tried them on. As I mentioned, they have a classic over-the-ear style and just looking at them, the padding on the ear pieces seem adequate and the peak of the headband seemed to be a bit lacking, but you don’t really know comfort unless you try on the product. So, I slipped the headphones on and found them to be exquisitely comfortable. Once I gave the headphones a thorough once-over exam, I tried them on. As I mentioned, they have a classic over-the-ear style and just looking at them, the padding on the ear pieces seem adequate and the peak of the headband seemed to be a bit lacking, but you don’t really know comfort unless you try on the product. So, I slipped the headphones on and found them to be exquisitely comfortable.
If no one hates you, no one is paying attention. If attention is what you want for vanity, confidence, or, hell — to make a decent living — then know that it’s not instantaneous. Every single person that you’re currently paying attention to, at some point in their lives.
You need to be true to yourself
Just like every other human on the planet, I have epically awesome days and days when life just turne against me. And while I can’t stand most self-help (see: tired quotes over stock photography on Instagram), sometimes I need a little pick-me-up. And most of the time, in order to get out of a slump (because my brain leans more into math/science than anything else), I need to drop a logic bomb on my ass.
Yes, this is a long article. But here’s the thing — if you’re reading this in your inbox and are already like, “fuck this!” delete it. No hard feelings. If you’re reading this in a browser on a website, and you see how tiny the scroll-bar is because of how far you still have to scroll to get to the bottom, close this tab and go back to 140-character tidbits of advice. Still with me? Phew. Just had to weed out all the folks from points: #1, #4 and #8. Welcome friends, onward we go.
Never give up and stay strong
If no one hates you, no one is paying attention. If attention is what you want for vanity, confidence, or, hell — to make a decent living — then know that it’s not instantaneous. Every single person that you’re currently paying attention to, at some point in their lives, was in your exact position. They kept at it and worked enough so that others started listening. Also know that if no one is watching, you can experience true freedom. Dance in your underwear. Write entirely for yourself. Like there’s a going-out-of-business sale. Find yourself — not in some coming-of-age hippie way involving pasta and ashrams— but in a way that helps you draw your own line in the sand for what matters and what doesn’t. Do what you want to do, just because you want to do that thing. This will build confidence that will come in handy later.
Once I gave the headphones a thorough once-over exam, I tried them on. As I mentioned, they have a classic over-the-ear style and just looking at them, the padding on the ear pieces seem adequate and the peak of the headband seemed to be a bit lacking, but you don’t really know comfort unless you try on the product. So, I slipped the headphones on and found them to be exquisitely comfortable. Once I gave the headphones a thorough once-over exam, I tried them on. As I mentioned, they have a classic over-the-ear style and just looking at them, the padding on the ear pieces seem adequate and the peak of the headband seemed to be a bit lacking, but you don’t really know comfort unless you try on the product. So, I slipped the headphones on and found them to be exquisitely comfortable.
If no one hates you, no one is paying attention. If attention is what you want for vanity, confidence, or, hell — to make a decent living — then know that it’s not instantaneous. Every single person that you’re currently paying attention to, at some point in their lives, was in your exact position. They kept at it and worked enough so that others started listening. Also know that if no one is watching, you can experience true freedom. Dance in your underwear. Write entirely for yourself. Like there’s a going-out-of-business sale. Find yourself — not in some coming-of-age hippie way involving pasta and ashrams— but in a way that helps you draw your own line in the sand for what matters and what doesn’t. Do what you want to do, just because you want to do that thing. This will build confidence that will come in handy later.
Everyday inspired by the Beauty of the Mountains
Take your time.
I’ve got a Fujifilm X100s. It runs about $1300. It’s easily the best camera I’ve ever owned. I take care of it as best as I can, but I don’t let taking care of it impact the photography. Let me elaborate on that a bit better. You’ll get better at each section of what we talked about slowly. And while you do, you’ll be amazed at how much easier it all is and how the habit forms. The best way to get better at photography is start by taking your camera everywhere. If you leave your house, your camera leaves with you. The only exception is if you’re planning for a weekend bender — then probably leave it at home. Other than that, always have it slung over your shoulder. It would probably help to get an extra battery to carry in your pocket. I’ve got three batteries. One in my camera, one in my pocket, one in the charger.
When it dies, swap them all.
For me, the most important part of improving at photography has been sharing it. Sign up for an Exposure account, or post regularly to Tumblr, or both. Tell people you’re trying to get better at photography. Talk about it. When you talk about it, other people get excited about it. They’ll come on photo walks with you. They’ll pose for portraits. They’ll buy your prints, zines, whatever.
Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, my sunset sky.
— Rabindranath Tagore
Breathe the world.
I’ve got a Fujifilm X100s. It’s easily the best camera I’ve ever owned. I take care of it as best as I can, but I don’t let taking care of it impact the photography. Let me elaborate on that a bit better. You’ll get better at each section of what we talked about slowly. And while you do, you’ll be amazed at how much easier it all is and how the habit forms. The best way to get better at photography is start by taking your camera everywhere. If you leave your house, your camera leaves with you. The only exception is if you’re planning for a weekend bender — then probably leave it at home. Other than that, always have it slung over your shoulder. It would probably help to get an extra battery to carry in your pocket. I’ve got three batteries. One in my camera, one in my pocket, one in the charger. When it dies, swap them all.
For me, the most important part of improving at photography has been sharing it. Sign up for an Exposure account, or post regularly to Tumblr, or both. Tell people you’re trying to get better at photography. Talk about it. When you talk about it, other people get excited about it. They’ll come on photo walks with you. They’ll pose for portraits. They’ll buy your prints, zines, whatever.
Heavy hearts, like heavy clouds in the sky, are best relieved by the letting of a little water.
— Christopher Morley
Enjoy the morning.
The best way to get better at photography is start by taking your camera everywhere. If you leave your house, your camera leaves with you. The only exception is if you’re planning for a weekend bender — then probably leave it at home. Other than that, always have it slung over your shoulder. It would probably help to get an extra battery to carry in your pocket. I’ve got three batteries. One in my camera, one in my pocket, one in the charger. When it dies, swap them all.
For me, the most important part of improving at photography has been sharing it. Sign up for an Exposure account, or post regularly to Tumblr, or both. Tell people you’re trying to get better at photography. Talk about it. When you talk about it, other people get excited about it. They’ll come on photo walks with you. They’ll pose for portraits. They’ll buy your prints, zines, whatever.
It’s easily the best camera I’ve ever owned. I take care of it as best as I can, but I don’t let taking care of it impact the photography. You’ll get better at each section of what we talked about slowly. And while you do, you’ll be amazed at how much easier it all is and how the habit forms.
There are absolutely no rules of architecture for a castle in the clouds and this is real.
— Gilbert K. Chesterton
Free your mind.
The best way to get better at photography is start by taking your camera everywhere. If you leave your house, your camera leaves with you. The only exception is if you’re planning for a weekend bender — then probably leave it at home. Other than that, always have it slung over your shoulder. It would probably help to get an extra battery to carry in your pocket. I’ve got three batteries. One in my camera, one in my pocket, one in the charger. When it dies, swap them all.
I’ve got a Fujifilm X100s. It’s easily the best camera I’ve ever owned. I take care of it as best as I can, but I don’t let taking care of it impact the photography. Let me elaborate on that a bit better. You’ll get better at each section of what we talked about slowly. And while you do, you’ll be amazed at how much easier it all is and how the habit forms.
For me, the most important part of improving at photography has been sharing it. Sign up for an Exposure account, or post regularly to Tumblr, or both. Tell people you’re trying to get better at photography. Talk about it. When you talk about it, other people get excited about it. They’ll come on photo walks with you. They’ll pose for portraits. They’ll buy your prints, zines, whatever.
How to Appreciate the Little Things in Life and be Happy
Just the other day I happened to wake up early. That is unusual for an engineering student. After a long time I could witness the sunrise. I could feel the sun rays falling on my body. Usual morning is followed by hustle to make it to college on time. This morning was just another morning yet seemed different.
Witnessing calm and quiet atmosphere, clear and fresh air seemed like a miracle to me. I wanted this time to last longer since I was not sure if I would be able to witness it again, knowing my habit of succumbing to schedule. There was this unusual serenity that comforted my mind. It dawned on me, how distant I had been from nature. Standing near the compound’s gate, feeling the moistness that the air carried, I thought about my life so far.
Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people's thinking.
Steve Jobs
I was good at academics, so decisions of my life had been pretty simple and straight. Being pretty confident I would make it to the best junior college of my town in the first round itself, never made me consider any other option. I loved psychology since childhood, but engineering was the safest option. Being born in a middle class family, thinking of risking your career to make it to medical field was not sane. I grew up hearing ‘Only doctor’s children can afford that field’ and finally ended up believing it. No one around me believed in taking risks. Everyone worshiped security. I grew up doing the same.
‘Being in the top will only grant you a good life’ has been the mantra of my life. But at times, I wish I was an average student. I wish decisions would have not been so straightforward. Maybe I would have played cricket- the only thing I feel passionate about. Or maybe I would have studied literature (literature drives me crazy). Isn’t that disappointing- me wishing to be bad at academics. It’s like at times I hate myself for the stuff I am good at.
When you step out of these four walls on a peaceful morning, you realize how much nature has to offer to you. Its boundless. Your thoughts, worries, deadlines won’t resonate here. Everything will flow away along with the wind. And you will realize every answer you had been looking for, was always known to you. It would mean a lot to me if you recommend this article and help me improve.
Behind the Byline Survey Report by Vishwarma University Pune March 2025
The survey conducted by the Journalism and Mass Communication Department at Vishwakarma University aimed to examine the challenges faced by women journalists in Pune across various media sectors, including print, digital, radio, and other platforms. The findings provide valuable insights into their demographic and professional backgrounds, high lighting key issues related to gender bias, career advancement, work-life balance, safety and mental health.
Key Findings
Demographic and Educational Background
A majority of respondents (56.3%) belonged to the 35-44 years age group, indicating representation from mid-ca-reer professionals, while younger age groups were under-represented.
Women journalists in Pune are highly educated, with 50% holding master's degrees and 26.6% possessing post-graduate qualifications, indicating the importance of ad-vanced education for career progression.
Professional Experience and Roles
A significant proportion (46.9%) of respondents had over 15 years of experience, reflecting extensive expertise and industry engagement.
The most common roles were reporters (17.2%), followed by freelancers (9.4%) and editorial positions, highlighting the diversity of professional responsibilities.
Media Sector Representation
Print media remains dominant, with 75% of respondents working in this sector, while digital media accounted for 21.9%, signaling the growing digitalization of the journal-ism industry.
Radio and other media platforms had a minimal repre sentation, indicating their niche presence.
Gender Bias and Career Advancement:
50% of respondents reported experiencing gender bias in the workplace, while 35.9% indicated they had not faced such bias. The remaining expressed uncertainty, suggesting the complexities of identifying workplace. discrimination.
Workplace Perception and Pay Equity
31.3% of respondents rarely felt their work was not tak en seriously compared to male colleagues, while 15.6% frequently experienced this issue, suggesting diverse workplace experiences.
Unequal pay remains a concern, with 43.8% of respon dents reporting pay disparities, while 42.2% indicated no such experience.
Work-Life Balance and Mental Health
Balancing work and personal responsibilities emerged as a significant challenge, with 40.6% rating it as ex-tremely difficult and 79.7% experiencing stress or burn-out.
Feelings of guilt about neglecting personal responsibili ties were prevalent among 51.6% of respondents.
The overall mental health score averaged at 3.28 out of 5, with respondents citing workload, safety concerns, and organizational support as key stressors.
Safety Concerns
A substantial majority (75%) believed that women jour-nalists face greater safety risks compared to male col-leagues.
Organizational Support and Policy Recommendations
62.5% of respondents believed they had equal access to resources such as training and mentoring, however, 21.9% disagreed, indicating potential disparities in pro-fessional development opportunities. 82.8% of respondents supported the implementation of gender-sensitive policies to better support women jour-nalists.
Barriers to Success
Key barriers identified included gender bias in promo-tions and assignments, work-life balance struggles, safety concerns, lack of mentorship, and inadequate HR
policies. Respondents called for flexible work arrangements, gen-der-neutral pay policies, and stronger mechanisms to combat workplace harassment.
Suggested Solutions
Women journalists emphasized the need for mentorship programs, flexible work options, improved safety proto-cols, and more inclusive newsroom policies.
There was a strong call for building a supportive commu-nity among women journalists to share experiences and advocate for change.
Perceptions of Research Practices
Some respondents highlighted concerns regarding the lack of follow-up actions from similar surveys, urging greater transparency and actionable outcomes.
To Read More download Report
Behind the Byline_Survey Report by Vishwarma University Pune_March 2025
Vishwakarma University Releases Report on Challenges Faced by Women Journalists in Pune
Pune: Vishwakarma University has released a survey report, Behind the Byline: Challenges Faced by Women Journalists in Pune City, highlighting key issues such as gender bias, work-life balance, and career advancement struggles. The report was unveiled on March 7, ahead of International Women’s Day, at the Pune Union of Working Journalists (PUWJ) office. The report was released by President of Vishwakarma University Bharat Agarwal, President of Pune Union of Working Journalists (PUWJ) Suneet Bhave, and PUWJ Secretary Meenakshi Gurav.
While releasing the report, President of Vishwakarma University, Bharat Agarwal said, “ Vishwakarma University will take the initiative for the empowerment of women journalists. We will work jointly with Pune Union of Working Journalists for evolving technology and professional training.”
The President of PUWJ Suneet Bhave said, “ The President of PUWJ Suneet Bhave said, “Consistency in the field of journalism ensures that there are no obstacles to reaching higher positions. Today, women journalists are working in senior positions across various media organizations.
General Secretary Meenakshi Gurav shared her experiences. She said, "Women journalists should remain aware of their rights."
Vishwakarma University's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Siddharth Jabade, said, "The university will work on the recommendations from this survey report."
The survey covered as many as 64 women journalists working across print, digital, and radio media. It found that 50% of respondents experienced gender bias at the workplace, while 36% did not. The remaining participants were uncertain, indicating the complex nature of workplace discrimination.
Balancing professional and personal responsibilities was reported as a significant challenge by 41% of the journalists surveyed. Additionally, 80% admitted to experiencing stress and burnout.
The report also highlighted safety concerns, with 75% of respondents believing that women journalists face higher risks than their male counterparts. Career advancement barriers included gender bias in promotions, lack of mentorship, inadequate HR policies, and work-life balance struggles.
Women journalists in the survey called for gender-neutral pay policies, flexible work arrangements, stronger anti-harassment mechanisms, mentorship programs, and improved safety protocols. The report emphasized the need for more inclusive newsroom policies and the creation of a supportive community to advocate for change.
The Vice President Prof. Dr. Vasudeo Gade was also present at the event.
Behind the Byline_Survey Report by Vishwarma University Pune_March 2025
Honoring the Goddess: A Look at the Symbolic Rituals of Durga Puja
Author: Amitava Basu
(Welcoming Durga Maa) - Durga Puja is one of the major festivals of Hindus and represents the triumphant Goddess Durga who defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura, a victory for good against evil. It is highly celebrated, of course in the eastern India, particularly West Bengal. The major celebrations take place from Shoshthi, the sixth day, through to Dashami, the tenth day of the last five days. It generally lasts for ten days, beginning with Mahalaya, the festival which welcomes Durga upon earth, and then concluding on the day of Vijayadashami, or Dussehra, when Durga idols are immersed in rivers or lakes, heralding her return to Mount Kailash-the abode of her consort, Lord Shiva. Durga Puja is more than just a religious festival; it is a cultural extravaganza. Lavish and elaborate pandals are constructed all over the towns and cities, enclosing a beautifully sculpted goddess Durga and her children-Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartikeya, and Ganesha.
Pandals often compete with each other in terms of creativity and thematic ideas, so fun in pandal-hopping is similarly derived both by the dwellers and outsiders. From simple traditional designs to modern themes, every pandal has a different tale to share. It is time for many cultural events in this festival, from dance and music performances to plays. To many, it spells new clothes, festive food, and possibly a visit from dear ones and, of course, not to forget rosogolla, sandesh, and other sweets, and khichuri, a rice-and-lentil affair often accompanied by fried vegetables, for savory tastes.
While the religious rituals include offering prayers (pushpanjali), lighting lamps (aarti), and chanting mantras, in such seclusion, the spirit of Durga Puja transcends the religious. It is a celebration of life, creativity, togetherness, for it shows not only a woman in power but also the nurturing lady and the strength of the human.
(Offering of the crown) On Shoshthi or the sixth day of Durga Puja, a very important ritual called Bodhon is performed, referring to the ceremonial awakening of Goddess Durga. The day also marks great importance as it is believed that Durga, after being in her celestial abode, comes down on earth to grace her devotees. During this sacred ritual, Durga Maa is adorned and symbolically empowered with her divine weapons, which she would then deploy to defeat demon Mahishasura.
According to the mythology, every weapon that Goddess Durga receives carries special significance, depicting the attributes needed to defeat the evil forces. She received all of these weapons from the gods. All of the gods represent collective powers that they were entrusting to her for the final battle against the evil forces.
1. Trishul: Given to Lord Shiva, this trident represents the qualities of courage, disciple, and the capacity to destroy evil. It implies three characteristics of the universe: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. Durga is also the power to balance and transcend the above three.
2. Sudarshan Chakra: Provided by Vishnu, the Sudarshan Chakra symbolizes dharma and relentless march towards a righteous goal. It means Durga possesses the ability to uphold dharma and destroy evil through the ages.
3. Bow and Arrow: The bow and arrow were gifted by Lord Vayu, who is the Wind God, and Lord Surya, the Sun God, symbolizing potential and kinetic energy. This is an image of balance between force and control, the capability to start or even to abort war if needed.
4. Sword: The sword sharpened by Lord Ganesh or Yama represents knowledge, wisdom, and the inevitable destruction of ignorance. With this weapon, Durga kills the darkness of false lies and ego.
5. Thunderbolt: The thunderbolt that Lord Indra supplied symbolizes determination or an unshakeable will. It is said to destroy ignorance and evil instantly as well, like a thunderbolt that strikes without batting an eyelid.
6. Trishul: Trishul, sometimes equated with Agni, the fire god, stands for the fierce power and concentrated energy Durga musters to ultimately destroy all evils which oppose the cause of righteousness.
(Welcoming Durga Maa with Dhak) - The dhaak-a large, traditional drum-conceals glory within the vibrant celebration of Durga Puja. Not just an auditory experience but something to be felt, it is about the spirit of the festival-a state of energy, devotion, and transcendence of divinity. With the first twang of the dhaak, Goddess Durga comes-along with it, along with anticipation and delight.
The dhaak played on all the major rituals on the Durga Puja days lends it an importance that renders it synonymous, and the beating of the dhaak is basically one with the Durga Puja festival itself. Often it is the sound that a devotee first hears as he reaches a pandal-a temporary structure put up to worship Durga's idol-at once setting the mood for the festivity. The beats of dhaak are formed into a core element of the Bodhon ritual on Shashthi, at which Durga is formally welcomed to Earth and whose resonance reverberates till the day her idol is taken to immersion on Vijayadashami.
(Sashti Puja) – Shashthi Puja is performed on the sixth day of Durga Puja. It is the first of the two main celebration days and coincidentally, it is also the day on which Durga, as per legend, arrives on earth. The most important rite of the day is Bodhon, or the awakening ritual of Durga. This rite involves a symbolic invocation of the goddess and thereby establishing her presence in the idol. While the priest invokes all such sacred rituals by reciting mantras and with offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets, devotees pray in her presence.
Shashthi is also the day when the goddess is bedecked with weapons gifted by several gods to vanquish the demon Mahishasura. This marks the beginning of days ahead of worship, devotion, and celebration-the mark of the formal commencement of the Durga Puja Celebrations.
(The Saptami Puja) - This time, Saptami Puja marks the seventh day of Durga Puja; and on this day, all religious as well as puja ceremonies accelerate. It begins with Pran Pratishtha, a ritual wherein prana-the life force of the goddess-is given. The rituals are performed at dawn when a mirror is placed before a banana tree known as Kola Bou that represents Durga's energy.
Kola Bou is bathed in a near water body and dressed in a sari, thus portraying the goddess. It is then that the goddess's manifest being begins in the pandals; from this day, the devotees begin their full-scale worship, offering flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity.
(The Ashtami and Nabami Puja) - Ashtami is also observed to be the most auspicious day of Durga puja. Goddess Durga is invoked today in the form of Mahishasuramardini, the destroyer of the buffalo demon Mahishasura to signify victory of force over evil. The day start with ceremonial offering known as Pushpanjali and then there is Kumari Puja in which young virgin girls are worshipped as the goddess.
The biggest ritual is performed on the 8th and 9th lunar day called Sandhi Puja which is performed in the twilight between Ashtami and Navami. This puja is performed exactly at the time when Durga turns into her devastating form, known as the Chamunda to kill Mahishasura. To enshrine Sandhi Puja 108 lamps, flowers and sacrifices are offered adding more spiritualism to the day.
Nabami - The ritual of Navami gives emphasis to the last day of the battle of Durga over Mahishasura. The particular day is used to perform prayers and other related ceremonies which are meant to call for blessings from Durga for prosperity, security and free from all forms of evils. People visit the pandals for prayers, Maha Aarti and the bhog which they take, serving as food to the Lord.
Navami traditions focus on the final tenth day of the war between Durga and Mahishasura and the rituals 'symbolize the victory.'
(The iconic Dhunuchi dance) - Dhunuchi Dance is another sort of religious move that is carried out when worshipping Durga Mata during the Durga Puja festival and especially on Ashtami and Navami nights. They use dhunuchi, which are earthen pots containing burning coconut husk, camphor and incense, and so produce fragrant smoke. This dance is known as Joradhwani Dance or Ardhana are performed in front of Goddess Durga offering flowers along with dhaak (drum).
(The Sindur Khela after Ma’s boron) - Sindoor Khela is a very colourful and an emotionally charged ceremony, carried out on Vijayadashami, which is ninth day of Durga Puja when the idol of Goddess Durga is fitted for immersion. Married women practise this by placing sindoor on the forehead of the deity first and then place it on each other's forehead. This act is a symbol of wishing for happiness in marriage, prosperity and longevity of her husband.
They call sindoor ornament which is after applying are women with sweets and celebrate with fun and joy making the positive last of the celebration. Sindoor khela signifies the relation between the women and it also depicts that as Goddess Durga is ready to leave to her own world.
Dashami - Dashami or Vijayadashami is the part of the Durga Puja which is celebrated as the last day and the last day of Durga Puja is when goddess Durga leaves for her home. For us it is celebrated both as a happy day that also smells sorrow since, Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura. The day includes rituals and offerings for the goddess and then Sindoor Khela. This immersion, known as Visarjan, is done with prayers and music, singing and dancing, which are manifestations of feelings of joy at being able to have worshipped the goddess as well as sadness for not being able to worship her anymore.
Dashami also marks the conclusion of the Puja and people pray for the goddess Durga come back the following year with her blessings and armour.
Nazneen Patel: Empowering Women and Transforming Apta Village as the Sarpanch
Nazneen Patel was the Sarpanch of Apta village, located near Mumbai Panvel, for the past two and half years. As the second woman to hold this position in Apta, Patel has focused on addressing issues that specifically impact women and has worked tirelessly to improve her community. Team VUCCD conducted an interview with Patel and tried to unfold events in and incidents in her public life.
Vidhi Mehetar ( BAJMC Second Year Student)
Inspiration and Entry into Politics:
Patel’s interest in politics began in her childhood, driven by a desire to contribute positively to her village. Although she initially lacked the opportunity to act on this passion, the introduction of the Mahila Arakshan reservation system provided her with a chance. This system allocates seats for women in local government bodies, which allowed her to run for the position of Sarpanch. Determined to make a difference, she decided to stand for election and successfully secured the seat.
Challenges and Achievements:
Patel encountered significant resistance, particularly from those who were skeptical of a woman holding such a position. Some members of the opposing party were disappointed with her selection and were not supportive of her leadership. Despite this, Patel remained committed to her role and her vision for her village.
She has made notable strides in several areas ranging from Installation of CCTV cameras to enhance women’s safety, implementation of street lighting to improve public safety, and organizing safety camps focused on menstrual health education.
She led marches to raise awareness and take a stand against rape cases. Additionally, she has organized safety camps in local schools to educate and protect young women.
She revamped a neglected area of the village, known as Vaadi, which has been transformed with new street lights and concrete roads. This area has been recognized as "Adarsh Vaadi" (Ideal Area) due to these improvements.
Under Patel’s leadership, the village has benefited from various government schemes designed to support women, including:
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: A scheme to promote the education and welfare of girls.
She also highlighted the role of women’s self-help groups (Bachat Gat) in providing support and fostering economic empowerment among women in the village.
Patel shared that initially, working in a predominantly male environment made her feel nervous. However, over time, she gained confidence and felt more secure in her role. Although she faced criticism and opposition from some quarters, her determination to serve her village and her belief in her mission helped her overcome these challenges.
Patel concluded with a powerful statement: (A woman is the key to human development). This reflects her belief in the vital role women play in driving progress and development within their communities.
Nazneen Patel’s tenure as Sarpanch exemplifies the positive impact that women can have in leadership roles, particularly in fostering community development and addressing gender specific issues.
A story of finance associate
In many workplaces, gender discrimination and male dominance continue to be
significant challenges that women face, regardless of their level or nationality. This
issue is particularly evident in the experiences of finance associate Jecika ( Name
Changed) finds herself in an environment where her contributions are undervalued
and her professional potential is often overlooked due to deep-rooted gender
biases.
Pranav Khatri
As finance associate, her decision-making responsibilities are not particularly
challenging given that she does not hold a managerial position. However, the
workplace dynamics shift considerably when she interacts with other departments,
especially where a female manager from abroad is involved. This manager, hailing
from a different country, likely brings with her diverse perspectives and innovative
approaches. Yet, instead of being appreciated for her diversity and expertise, she
faces resistance from her male colleagues. She says, “These men, struggling with
the notion of taking directives from a woman, especially one who is not from their
country—often resort to undermining her authority and making her decision-
making process unnecessarily difficult.”
This scenario underscores a broader issue: the systemic gender-based challenges
that women face in the workplace. Along with her, female foreign managers in the
company have witnessed the reflection of patriarchy. She claimed,” Contributions
and achievements of my female manager were consistently undervalued
compared to those of her male counterparts. This inequity reveals a toxic
organizational culture where gender bias is deeply ingrained, leading to a
workplace environment that stifles the professional growth of women and
prioritizes male perspectives.”
When asked about the impact of gender based discrimination and biases on
work culture, she said. “The persistence of such gender discrimination can have a
profoundly demoralizing effect on female employees. It not only limits their career
advancement but also reinforces a culture that diminishes the importance of
diversity and inclusion. Women like the associate and the female manager must
navigate these daily challenges, continually striving to assert their competence and
authority in the face of pervasive gender biases.”
The workplace described here is a microcosm of a larger societal issue. The
resistance faced by women, especially those in leadership positions, is a reflection
of enduring patriarchal attitudes that refuse to recognize the equal capabilities and
contributions of women. She says that addressing these issues requires a concerted
effort from organisations to dismantle the structures that perpetuate gender
discrimination and to foster a culture of true equality and respect for diversity.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by the associate and the female manager
highlight the urgent need for change in workplace cultures that continue to
marginalize women. By acknowledging and actively combating gender bias,
organizations can create environments where all employees, regardless of gender
or nationality, are valued equally for their contributions and can thrive
professionally.
Leading with Purpose: Rhea Sovani’s Fight for Equality in Media
Rhea Sovani’s journey is one of determination, passion, and resilience. At just 28, she is the Founder and CEO of Hype & Co., a thriving firm with clients across India and Singapore. But her path to success didn’t begin with an immediate leap into entrepreneurship; it started with humble beginnings as a journalism student.
Bani Thakur
While pursuing her studies, Rhea took on copywriting work and gained experience at an agency, where she learned the ins and outs of the industry. Her hard work and perseverance eventually paid off when she founded Hype & Co., turning her dream into reality. Reflecting on the moment she achieved this milestone, Rhea said, “It was such a beautiful feeling. When the dream you’ve been chasing finally comes true, you’re left with nothing but happy tears and a sense of accomplishment.”
When asked about the challenges women face in the media industry, Rhea was candid. She acknowledged that while women have made significant strides in the field, gender inequality remains a pressing issue. "The media industry plays a huge role in shaping stories and public opinion, yet it still struggles with gender equality. Women have made great progress and are a major part of the industry, but it can be challenging. You need to be dedicated and have a true passion for it to thrive.”
Rhea also shed light on the obstacles female journalists, producers, and media leaders often face. Despite their critical roles in shaping narratives, their abilities are frequently questioned or undervalued. "The push for gender equality in media isn’t just about visibility; it’s about being truly respected and appreciated for the work we do," she emphasized.
Sharing her personal experiences, Rhea recalled instances where clients pressured her to lower her fees, underestimating the hard work and effort required to deliver high-quality results. She also faced wage discrimination, being paid less than male colleagues with similar experience. Moreover, during her time at a company, she noticed how workloads were unevenly distributed, with more tasks being assigned to her simply because she was a woman.
When asked about the impact of increased diversity behind the scenes—particularly in writing, directing, and producing—Rhea noted that having women in these roles significantly influences how women are portrayed in the media. "When women are involved in creating stories, they bring different perspectives, making female characters more realistic and well-rounded, especially in OTT platforms. This helps break old stereotypes and inspire viewers, leading to a more equal and fair media landscape."
On how these stereotypes can be changed, Rhea firmly believes that the more women enter the industry and prove their capabilities, the more these stereotypes will diminish. Encouraging and supporting independent creators, who are often more open to breaking stereotypes, can also drive change.
As a final piece of advice to women entering the media industry, Rhea said, “Believe in yourself and your voice. The media world can be tough, but your perspective is valuable and needed. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas. Surround yourself with a strong network of people who support you. Be patient and consistent. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step you take opens the door for future women in the industry. Always remember, your role helps shape the future of how women are seen in the media."
Rhea Sovani's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of representation. Through her work and experiences, she continues to pave the way for more women to rise and thrive in the media world.
Breaking Barriers: The Journey of a Woman in Politics
Women in Indian politics are slowly breaking barriers and overcoming challenges that have traditionally favored men. One such woman, a well-known political leader Pallavi Satpute Jawale who is a Shiv Sena (UBT) Corporator from PMC (Saharsangatika, Shivsena (UBT) Saharpramuhk, member of DPDC, Member of Pune Zilla Niyojan Samittee, PMC sahar sudharna committee), shared her story about the struggles and victories she has experienced as a woman in politics with VUCCD
Purab Ganguli
Women in politics often face challenges that men don’t. “When I first started in politics, after working in social services, I realized that women have to prove themselves much more than men,” she said. “Some male colleagues don’t like to see women in power. They find it hard to accept that a woman can hold a higher position.”
She explained that men often get leadership roles easily, while women have to work much harder. Society praises men for being assertive, but when a woman speaks up, she’s often criticized for not being gentle enough.
Even with the 50% reservation for women in local governing bodies , gender bias still exists. In her area, many people prefer a woman leader because they believe she can understand their problems better than a man. However, women still face resistance in political spaces.
“When I was elected, I was told I needed more experience before I could join key committees like the standing committee or the city development committee. Men, on the other hand, were given these roles without question. This is a common issue—women are judged more harshly and given fewer opportunities,” she shared.
Balancing politics and family life is another challenge for women. “I live in a joint family, and their support has been a huge help in my political career. But being a mother adds another layer of responsibility. Even with support, managing both family and politics can be tough,” she said.
Despite these challenges, she continues to manage both her personal and professional life with the help of her family.
There are many barriers that women face in politics. “Women are often questioned about their experience and abilities, even if they’re new to politics. Men don’t face the same challenges—they are often given a pass. These barriers are deeply rooted in the system, making it harder for women to succeed. “I encourage all women to stand up for themselves and fight against these barriers. We are not just fighting for ourselves, but for future generations of women in politics.” she added.
However, the media plays a big role in shaping how people see politicians, and women often face unfair treatment compared to men. “If a woman politician is involved in any controversy, the media makes a big deal out of it and often questions her character. Men, on the other hand, don’t face the same level of criticism,” she noted.
She pointed out how harmful this can be, as women are often unfairly judged for actions that men are not. However, she also acknowledged that the media has helped bring attention to women’s issues, giving them a platform to speak up and fight for their rights.
The path for women in politics is tough. From dealing with gender bias and systemic barriers to balancing family and career, women face challenges that men often do not. But women like this leader are proving that they can overcome these difficulties and make a difference.
She encourages other women to keep fighting for their rights and believes that things can change. “There’s still a long way to go, but women are making their mark in politics, and with determination and support, we can break through these barriers,” she said.