Why is Innocence and Chastity Romanticized for Women in Indian Society
Innocence and chastity have been romanticized as ideals to strive for women in Indian society throughout the ages. This is not the case for men, who are often allowed to do what they please, while women were looked at as second grade citizens. Though the situation is somewhat better now, it is still far from the what it should be, with patriarchy still running strongly in the Indian psyche.
The stereotype of women as striving for innocence and purity, with their worth being in their chastity and as dutiful wives to their husbands, is a dismal one. India’s women can fly on the wings of freedom only when that mindset is changed.
There are many reasons which are responsible for this stereotypical image of women in our society, due to which they have suffered a lot, both physically and mentally. Only at the turn of the 20th century — more so in its second half — has the plight of women begun changing.
Below are 10 reasons why such superfluous ideals and extravagant notions forced onto women:
- Women were restricted to menial social tasks in our male dominated society. This has had its origins in tradition, religious practices and culture.
- A virgin is a person who has never engaged in sexual intercourse. There are cultural and religious traditions which place special value and significance on virginity, especially for unmarried females. It is associated with notions of personal purity, honour and self-worth. As if a person’s virginity determines their value!
- The notion that a woman is only pure if she has only had sexual intercourse with her husband has been portrayed in one of our greatest epics, the Ramayana as well. Sita had to undergo trial by fire to prove her chastity. This has further entrenched the ideal in our society.
- Cultural and Religious traditions such as women not being allowed to do Pooja or cook during their menstrual cycles, has not helped their case either. Even today, they are made to follow outdated traditions.
- Women are not supposed to want, think about, or even know about sex. Those who follow this line of thinking, are considered ‘ideal’ Indian women and perfect marriage material.
- There is little conversation about a woman’s desire for sex. The topic is rarely discussed, and frowned upon in society.
- Premarital Sex is a Taboo for women. It is assumed that they are somehow morally bound to not have sex before marriage.
- Patriarchy cannot survive if women come into power. Over centuries, the easiest way to control women, has been by controlling women’s sexuality. Throughout the ages, they have been subjugated through this avenue.
- Women who can cook well, maintain the house, take care of children have been portrayed as the epitome of perfection. However, though made of gold, they have been shackles. Shackles for women, so they never rise above those stations.
- The concept of loyalty has somehow been related to a woman’s virginity and vagina. A woman who has had sex before marriage is often considered as used and impure in our society. On the other hand, men who flout those same ‘rules’ aren’t even given a second glance.
Conclusion:
Innocence and chastity are used as a stick to beat women and bind them to outdated traditions so that patriarchy can survive. In a world which is increasingly egalitarian, these concepts cannot — and should not — live on. Women deserve respect as their own persons, and not only in their relation to a man as a mother, wife, daughter or sister.
Every woman is an individual, every woman is the master of her own destiny, the captain of her own ship. Let her break all barriers and rise gloriously to a future full of freedom and respect.
You can check out more blogs on our Website or you can
Download our app from Android App to be your complete guide to attain optimum sexual health and wellbeing.
