International Women’s Day was celebrated vibrantly at Atal Udyan in Adabari, Guwahati, during a program titled Basantabilas, organized by Kolasamanway. The event featured a mix of discussions, music, poetry, and dance to celebrate womanhood and the arrival of spring.
Dr. Sadhan Das, the chief guest, emphasized the significance of spring as a symbol of renewal, highlighting that life is fleeting and underscoring the importance of living purposefully amid life’s challenges. He noted that if one truly evaluates the meaningful hours available in life, it totals around 600, prompting the call for harmony over conflict.
Dr. Rita Bhuiya, a gynaecologist and paediatrician, addressed ongoing issues of gender inequality, pointing out that despite advancements in education, discrimination persists, manifesting most notably in societal reactions to the gender of newborns. She condemned the practice of gender-based abortions and the troubling societal norms surrounding it.
Writer Manikuntala Bhattacharya commented on the slow pace of societal change despite the annual observance of Women’s Day. Quoting Maxim Gorky, she pointed to the role of mothers in shaping future citizens and lamented silent discrimination within families that often spurs inaction despite public discussions on equality. She advocated for girls to learn martial arts for self-defense and stressed the necessity for women to achieve financial independence to challenge societal norms.
Professor Sudeshna Bhattacharya from Gauhati University highlighted historical context by referencing the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, where women and men studied together, questioning the evolution of discriminatory practices such as purdah and educational restrictions placed on women. She asserted that understanding this history is crucial for addressing contemporary inequality.
The event’s second segment, titled Phaguner Mohonay, celebrated spring with cultural performances, featuring folk music, poetry, and traditional dance forms, including Kathak by Nrityarpan and a children’s group dance. The event concluded with a captivating performance of Ayorī Basanta, celebrating the festive spirit of Holi.
