Evolution of Feminism

A panel discussion on “Intersectional Feminism: Changing Times and Changing Values” took place at Jyotirmai Hall, Kolkata, on December 2, shedding light on various aspects of feminism in India. The event delved into questions surrounding intersectional feminism, the evolution of feminism in India, the definition of feminism, and strategies to involve more men in feminist conversations.

The panel, consisting of scholars and activists from Kolkata, featured Paromita Chakravarti, a professor of English at Jadavpur University; Niladri R. Chatterjee, a professor of English at the University of Kalyani; and Koyel Ghosh, the managing trustee of Sappho for Equality. Moderator Ruchira Goswami facilitated the discussion, emphasizing the absence of a singular definition for feminism.

Chakravarti reflected on the early years of feminism in India, noting that the HIV pandemic played a crucial role in raising mass awareness about feminism during a time when it was not widely discussed. She highlighted the generational change in the understanding of feminism, with modern colleges incorporating gender studies courses, demonstrating that feminism is an ever-evolving concept.

Ghosh, a gender-non-conforming, non-binary queer feminist activist, addressed the scrutiny women face regarding their commitment to feminism. Ghosh emphasized the need to unlearn preconceived notions to perceive issues from a different perspective, citing the example of challenging forced marriages as an act of enabling rather than saving.

Chatterjee discussed challenges arising from upbringing and parental habits that perpetuate gender norms. He highlighted the reluctance to discuss issues like menstruation, pointing out the avoidance of sanitary pad commercials in favor of more comfortable subjects like violence in movies. Chatterjee also tackled the lack of conversations around sex and violence at home, emphasizing the importance of questioning societal norms.

Audience participation brought forth inquiries about gender-specific laws on sexual assault and violence, as well as debates on feminism’s role in defining gender norms. The panel engaged in further conversation with the audience, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives on the evolving landscape of feminism in India.

_{Repurposed article already published in My Kolkata}