As part of the Penniyam Pazhagu series, The Penn Collective held a straight-from-the-heart, honest discussion on 'Reclaiming Women's Agency — Women and Marriage' at Harmony Hut, Kotturpuram, Chennai. A group of passionate participants came together with one purpose — to put an end to the toxic cycle of patriarchy and ensure gender justice.
The discussion examined how the institution of marriage in the Indian context traumatizes people from childhood — regressive practices equating women to objects and carriers of family/caste pride, the financial and emotional burdens from societal expectations, and our inherent biases when looking for a match.
The session ended with a data-based discussion on the marriage market, the marriage economy, legislative attempts at equalising the economy, marriage-induced violence and marriage-based gendered norms. The spirit was electric — proving that even the most serious topics can be explored with energy and fun.
