Patriarchy Repackaged

In the tapestry of modern society, an insidious thread still weaves its way through our interactions, expectations, and aspirations. This thread - the permeating patriarchy—has evolved from overt oppression to a more subtle, praise-wrapped form of gender inequality.

As we gather around dinner tables and in living rooms, the dynamics described in the article play out in countless homes. Women juggle careers and household responsibilities with seeming effortlessness, while their contributions are both expected and subtly diminished. Men "help" with chores as if it's a favour rather than shared responsibility. These patterns, ingrained over generations, can be hard to recognise, let alone change.

However, awareness is the first step toward transformation. By shining a light on these dynamics—the unspoken codes, the gendered expectations, the way we value different forms of contribution—we create an opportunity for change. We can start to question why a woman's interest in cricket or economics is seen as stepping out of her "domain," or why a young woman's life choices are scrutinised more heavily than a young man's.

The path forward lies not in antagonism, but in collaboration. It involves men stepping up to truly share household responsibilities, not as helpers but as equal partners. It means celebrating women's achievements in all spheres—professional, personal, and everything in between—without the caveat of "despite having a family." It requires us to challenge our own biases and the subtle ways we might perpetuate outdated norms.

Permeating patriarchy by Jasmine Kujur. In The Hindu Sunday Magazine, 20 October 2024.

By reimagining our roles and expectations, we can create homes and societies where all contributions are valued equally, where interests and ambitions aren't gendered, and where the narrative of success is diverse and inclusive. This evolution of thought and action will lead us to a more equitable future, where the permeating influence is one of mutual respect and shared opportunity, rather than patriarchy in disguise.

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