(Empowers Women)
Tell us about the start of your journey working for a social cause. What spurred it on?
My experience as a woman was that we get blamed and stigmatised and treated as lesser humans especially when we assert our rights. We had grown to suffer in silence at the time when I started Bailancho Ekvott. What spurred me on was the sea shell I found while I was walking on the beach on a rainy day with water dripping from my head from my head and my eyes. I was going through some pain. This shell which had the shape of Ganesh seemed to say to me, “Stop crying. Go help other women; you can do it”. That set me on my journey. I gave up my first love – teaching – and took off on my mission to serve women, children and the environment.
What challenges do women face when attempting to resolve social issues?
We are reminded of our traditional role as women. No support from anyone including family. Law keepers belonged to a patriarchal mindset. It’s as if women cannot assert our rights.
•Even complainants are discouraged by the law keepers.
•The conditioning of women in our society as if they should not assert their rights.
•Gender-based discrimination still continues.
•No quick justice.
How important is your family support in your cause?
Very important. Most families do not support a woman going out at any hour of day and night. I had a tough time in the beginning, but over the years they have understood my commitment and my passionate desire to work for my cause and now I get full support from my family.
What has been the toughest challenge you faced so far? How did you overcome it and what did you learn from it?
•There was a case of a teacher who was removed from her position because she was pregnant. It was a very tough case. There was political pressure too but I was determined not to give up to get justice. We had to do morchas, hunger fast and it was only with the pressure that we exerted that we were able to get her reinstated. I learned that despite the law, women get marginalised and unless a struggle exists, she does not get justice.
• Bailancho Ekvott was born and continues to be non-funded while we physically and financially assist women and children with services. We require financial assistance. This challenge was overcome by focusing on income generation through our own efforts. We decided to preserve the Goan capod (saree worn by by niz goenkars). We made folders, bags, wrap-around trousers and jackets using the capod. We worked very hard accepting orders to meet the deadlines. Later we started making handicrafts, jewellery, ladles (doulle), bamboo baskets and started an outlet called Goan Identity in my house. Later we began to make decor out of coconut shells and seashells, door mats, clay items, quilts, wealth from waste etc. which were all sold through this organisation.
My social activism and dedication is my passion which has become my purpose and now my mission. Hard work, sacrifice and commitment is a solution to every challenge.
How do you juggle your personal and professional life?
I don’t have to juggle because I love house work. I love my home just as much as I love my cause just as I love all that I do in life. I am able to manage with efficiency. I plan my personal life, my chores, commitments, and my family as I developed the habits early while I was teaching. My social work is my passion and mission. My time management is my forte. My husband is very supportive too.
What strategies have you used to face crises?
Playing it by ear and facts is my motto. Crises can be handled with a calm mind. We must not lose our cool but tackle every crisis in a satisfying way.
Read the full article in ‘Viva Goa’ magazine copy.
Viva Goa magazine is now on stands. Available at all major book stalls and supermarkets in Goa.
