Indu Antony, a 41-year-old multidisciplinary artist from Bengaluru, is dedicated to creating spaces for women’s empowerment and expression. By blending art, activism, and feminism, she challenges the gender inequities women face in public spaces.

“Most women I know have experienced some form of sexual harassment in public spaces,” says Indu. Indu’s mother taught her to carry a safety pin, preparing her for unwanted attention — a reality many women face daily.

A disturbing incident seven years ago changed Indu’s perspective. Two boys spat on her face in broad daylight. “I had no idea why they did that,” she recalls. This traumatic experience became a turning point, sparking her drive for change. 

The drive led to the creation of ‘Cecelia’ed’, a public art project to address gender violence. The project features Cecelia, a 70-something local icon whom Indu met and was inspired by.

Cecelia, the face of the project, was presented as a superhero called ‘The Gender Disruptor’. Her bold, fashion-forward persona disrupted conventional views, inspiring women to reclaim public spaces with confidence and pride.

Indu began her efforts in Bengaluru’s HBR Layout, using data from local police and feminist geography studies to identify unsafe areas for women. She observed how urban planning often reflects patriarchal biases, limiting women’s freedom in public spaces.

Through workshops and conversations with Anganwadi women, Indu learned more about women’s fears and struggles. Young women expressed concerns about sexual assault, while older women worried about theft.

To create a safe space for women to socialise, Indu launched ‘Open Bar Nights’, providing an environment where women, often excluded from bars, could enjoy a drink freely. These events also facilitated conversations with men, fostering dialogue about gendered spaces.

Another initiative, ‘Street Reopenings’, focused on reclaiming unsafe streets. “During the street reopening functions, we would get somebody from BESCOM to climb up and change the bulbs amidst claps and cheers,” says Indu.

The project also extended to educating children about gender equality. Cecelia-themed merchandise, including matchboxes and comic strips, was created and distributed in schools to spark conversations about inclusive public spaces.

In 2022, Indu launched ‘Namma Katte’, an open space in one of Bengaluru’s largest slums near the Banaswadi Railway Station. Designed as a safe, non-productive space, it allows women to rest, relax, and unwind after long days of work.

“This is a space for women to sit, scream, dance, scratch, and do nothing, open between 10 am and 6 pm every day. It’s just a space for them to exist,” notes Indu.

Running Namma Katte in a male-dominated environment comes with challenges.  Indu often sits next to drunk men, engaging them in conversation to assert women’s right to occupy and feel safe in the space.

Despite ongoing challenges, Indu remains determined to create lasting change in her community. She envisions local women taking ownership of Namma Katte and ensuring it remains a secure and welcoming space.