A Move Away from Conventional Gender Roles

Newsreel Asia Insight #52
Nov. 23, 2023

The BBC’s 2023 list of 100 inspiring and influential women, released on Nov. 21, features three Indian women, acknowledging their dedication to societal impact in the realms of environment, advocacy and sports. They embody India’s diversity and stand as a counter to patriarchy.

On the BBC’s list, photographer Arati Kumar-Rao’s environmental narratives, actress Dia Mirza’s advocacy and cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur’s sporting prowess, collectively represent the Indian women’s contributions to the world.

Here is a brief overview of their profiles.

Arati Kumar-Rao: A Lens on Climate Change

Kumar-Rao, a photographer and writer, has been documenting the impact of climate change across South Asia. Her work has focused on environmental degradation and its human cost. Through her work, Kumar-Rao captures the shrinking common lands, the loss of biodiversity and the displacement of millions.

Her book, “Marginlands: India’s Landscapes on the Brink,” shows the resilience of those living in the country’s most hostile environments. Her decade-long journey across the Indian subcontinent brings to the forefront stories that are often overlooked but are crucial in understanding the climate crisis.

Dia Mirza: An Actress with a Cause

Mirza, renowned for her roles in Indian cinema, has also emerged as a significant voice in environmental and humanitarian advocacy. Her work as a United Nations Environment Programme goodwill ambassador has been crucial in raising awareness about climate change, wildlife protection and clean air.

Mirza’s commitment extends beyond advocacy; she is the founder of One India Stories, a production house dedicated to telling stories that provoke thought and action. She also works with organisations like Save the Children and the International Fund for Animal Welfare to make a difference.

Harmanpreet Kaur: Breaking Boundaries in Cricket

Kaur, the captain of the Indian women’s national cricket team, has redefined women’s cricket in India. Her achievements, including leading her team to a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games and victory in the inaugural Women’s Premier League, are seen as milestones in Indian sports.

Kaur’s remarkable 171 runs off 115 balls in the 2017 Women’s World Cup semi-final against Australia broke barriers and inspired a generation of young girls.

There’s a fourth woman we would like to mention here: Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo. Though born in England, Tenzin Palmo has been identified as “from India” by the BBC, a classification we should all embrace with pride.

Tenzin Palmo’s journey from England to the Himalayas is a story of spiritual awakening and dedication. As one of the first Westerners ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun, she has been a trailblazer. Her establishment of the Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Himachal Pradesh is a significant step in promoting the status of female Buddhist practitioners.

Tenzin Palmo is renowned for her 12 years in solitary retreat in a Himalayan cave, which speaks of her commitment to her faith and the empowerment of women in Buddhism.

Indian women on the BBC’s 2022 list included actress Priyanka Chopra, aeronautical engineer Sirisha Bandla, Booker-winning author Geetanjali Shree and social worker Sneha Jawale. 

These women have shattered the conventional gender roles prescribed by patriarchal societies, symbolising a broader movement towards equality. In celebrating these women, we also celebrate the spirit of India – a nation of diverse cultures, religions and backgrounds.

Their stories are a reminder of the strength and resilience that women bring to the table, transforming challenges into opportunities for change and progress.