21-05-2025
Gender seminar at Ente Keralam stresses on need for shift in mindset at family-level
Changing gender attitudes must begin at home and awareness programmes on women's contributions in family should not be given to them alone, but should be extended to broader society, said gender expert T.K. Anandi.
She was delivering a keynote address at a seminar 'Kudumbashree's Interventions for Gender Equality: Possibilities' held as part of the Ente Keralam Exhibition in Thrissur on Wednesday.
Dr. Anandi emphasised the need to move away from the current norm of limiting gender awareness programmes to women. 'True equality begins when the next generation is raised with fairness and democracy in the household,' she said. She criticised the unscientific beliefs and superstitions often passed down through generations and stressed the importance of instilling scientific temper among women. Kudumbashree workers, she said, have a crucial role in this transformation.
United stand
Calling for a united stand against dowry and extravagant weddings, Dr. Anandi praised Kudumbashree members for breaking stereotypes, 'Kudumbashree has proven that women are not incapable of hard work—that they are capable change makers.'
The seminar was presided over by Kudumbashree District Mission coordinator U. Salil and inaugurated by Thrissur district panchayat vice-president Latha Chandran.
Rhythm Band by a group of differently-abled children stole hearts at the Ente Keralam venue with a stunning display of music and dance. Triumphing over challenges through art, these young performers proved that joy and expression know no boundaries.
'Anuyathra Rhythm'
The event, titled 'Anuyathra Rhythm,' was organised under the joint initiative of the District Social Justice department and the Kerala Social Security Mission's State Initiative on Disabilities (SID). Social Justice and Higher Education Minister R. Bindu felicitated the artistes, praising their courage and creativity.
Performers from across the districts graced the stage with vibrant cultural displays. The artistes were selected through the Talent Fest for Youth with Disabilities screening process, specifically from the category of individuals with more than 40% disabilities.
