Whilst we celebrate Women’s Day with pomp and show, can International Men's Day be far behind? We talk to prominent men from all walks of life in the city on what the day means to them, if there are any men’s issues that get lost in the midst of society being pro-feminist today, and how they would work towards improving perception all-round.
Vikram Cotah, hotelier
Earlier, nobody even knew anything about the existence of International Men’s Day. Now, it is becoming popular and everyone is talking about it. From the recent recognition, it is understood that a lot of discussions have been going on regarding men’s issues. Everyone expects men to work more hours in the workplace, because their women co-workers need to rush home to do household chores! That is a wrong perception — that men do less work at home. Both men and women contribute at home equally, and I hope that’s realised soon.
Ashok Selvan, Actor
There are a lot of subjective perceptions when it comes to certain issues. I am not complaining — but our society expects men to settle down by the age of 30. There is a huge pressure on men to have a family as well. When a man goes pursuing his passion, people call him crazy, and will not allow him to do that. I think there is ‘convenient equality’ when it comes to women.
Also, men should be appreciated more in their work atmosphere. I am not saying that there is a big shortage of appreciation — but it would be great if men are recognised more. Like how we give more importance to our mothers and sisters, fathers and brothers in the family should also get the acknowledgement.
Armaan Ibrahim, Car racer
I believe women’s issues are more in focus today because of the incidents of crime against women. But in my opinion, men’s issues should be addressed as much as women’s issues. No one gender should be given more importance. Everyone should be treated equally. Both the genders should be given moral support. There shouldn’t be any distinction when dealing with the problems associated with both the sexes.
Satkrit Krishna, Fashion designer
Gender equality has evolved a lot in our country, atleast in the metros over the last 20 years. But I also believe the sexes were not made to be equal in all respects — a man can’t conceive and likewise there are things that don’t come naturally to women as they do to men.
Giving priority is a gentleman’s code. Whether it’s holding a door open for his lady or pulling out a chair, it’s been a gentleman’s thing to give. So it’s not surprising for women to be celebrated. They shouldn’t take their partners for granted, as I’ve seen in many places. And I don’t think men really care too much if their day is celebrated or not.
Vikranth Prasanna, LGBTQ activist
Though there is a lot of progressive talk about men’s issues, things haven’t changed much. A lot of men face physical abuse and harassment, especially in educational institutions and workplaces. They are not willing to come out and talk about it, because of the stigma attached to it. It’s sad to see them silently suffer. Our society has a stereotypical definition on how a man should behave and if he amends it, they consider him a misfit. It’s completely absurd. They too have their rights and freedom to live the way they want. Nobody should stop them from pursuing their dreams.
Unlike how women’s issues are noticed, men’s cases hardly come to limelight. I want those who suffer to come out and talk boldly about it. We are here to hear you, friends.
