Gender

Sheshandeep Kaur Sidhu, the former sarpanch of Manak Khana, sparked a revolution in her village by empowering women through the introduction of nameplates recognising their contributions. Her legacy reshaped the community, challenging traditional gender roles and inspiring change for future generations.

Naseema Khatoon, born and raised in Chaturbhuj Sthan, a red-light district in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, experienced the harsh stigma faced by sex workers and their children first-hand. Determined to create change, she founded Jugnu in 2004, a publication that amplifies the voices of the marginalised. The first edition, a heartfelt four-page photocopy, was made with local support.

Prazna Foundation's Project Kishori is breaking the silence around menstruation in Rajasthan, creating safe spaces for young girls to learn about their bodies, and talk openly about their menstrual health.

In an effort to ensure the next generation of young men is gender-sensitive, Equal Community Foundation heads to the slums of Pune where they educate boys on gender equitable behaviours and why the onus of safety shouldn't always fall on women.

At 61, Mukta Singh defies societal prejudices by embracing her grey hair and launching a modelling career. Despite harsh online criticism, she stands proud, inspired by her stylish grandmother and mother. Mukta’s journey highlights the importance of self-worth and redefining beauty, proving that age should never limit one's identity.

The portrayal of women as objects of desire or as one-dimensional characters reinforces toxic and regressive gender norms. We need more media that challenges outdated gender norms and provides empowering, multidimensional portrayals of women.

At just 15, Roshni Perween became a mother, facing challenges many of us can’t imagine. But she didn’t let her struggles define her. Today, she’s a force for change, having prevented over 60 child marriages and transforming the futures of countless young girls. In this article, Roshni shares five simple steps we can take to help fight child marriage in India, offering hope and inspiration to many.

Dr Kalpana Sankar, a nuclear physicist turned social reformer, co-founded Hand in Hand India, an NGO empowering 2.2 million women, eradicating child labour, and creating 1.5 million jobs. Through self-help groups, financial inclusion, and education, her organisation has transformed rural lives across India, improving sustainable development and gender equality.

You know him as the man behind the 'Selfie With Daughter' campaign. But Sunil Jaglan's impact goes far beyond viral fame. Discover how his Bibipur model of village development became a global example of progress, transforming lives and inspiring change beyond his village.

Tatwashil Kamble and Ashok Tangde have one goal -- to give girls in Beed, Maharashtra, a chance at a better future by saving them from the horrors of child marriage. This is the story of their mission.