Let's portray women as more than just arm candy

I was brought up to believe that the world is by and large a fair place, but that you have to watch out for yourself. I was taught to believe in the system and be prepared for the worst case scenario, always, Gul Panag writes.

I was brought up to believe that the world is by and large a fair place, but that you have to watch out for yourself. I was taught to believe in the system and be prepared for the worst case scenario, always. Despite the recent and 'sudden' national awakening about the lack of safety of women in India, I firmly believe that our women are doing a great job, walking shoulder-to-shoulder with men in every field.

And in spite of being groped along the way, they are achievers in their own right. Having the odds stacked against them in a patriarchal male-dominated society makes them more resilient and stronger. Imagine the scenario if it really were a level playing field?

An Indian woman is subconsciously more alert and aware of any imminent danger in the form of a male predator. She knows where to go, when to go, and when not to go. She places unreasonable restrictions on herself to protect herself. It's like living in the jungle. Or the wild, wild West. Even after all the possible precautions, things can and do go horribly wrong. But they say it is a fair world. She can seek redressal from the law. It's a different matter that the law takes its own time, and she may never get justice in her lifetime.

From the time she is a little girl, she has to watch out for herself - from the men in the family to over-friendly teachers, bus conductors or any other man she may encounter. She is told not to be too friendly with boys her age, and to concentrate on her studies instead. In school, she is encouraged to study humanities (science and commerce are for boys, she is told). College for her is an extension of school. The same set of social rules apply here too.