In Assam, IWD 2022 was celebrated in six districts with approximately 400 women participating in a series of programmes. The women shared their stories of challenges and change, played sports and musical instruments that are otherwise impermissible for women in their communities. The women broke many bias and inhibitions as they talked, danced, sang and performed plays that expressed their journey and hopes for a more gender equal society.
On 2nd March, students of Dahali Karka High School, Kamrup (Rural), took part in Essay writing and Pencil Sketching competitions. Prizes to the winners and appreciation certificates were distributed to all the students who participated in the competition. The competition was on the theme “Your favourite woman leader from Assam/India who inspires you”.
On 5th March, women from rural communities of Udalguri gathered at 2 No. Kalaigaon. The women played traditional instruments and performed folk dance and also shared their life stories. Also present were support group members ANM, Anganwadi worker, ASHA and a Social Activist.
On 6th March, NEN celebrated IWD at Dharikathi in Sonitpur district. Invited guests Eliza Boro of NGO MASK and sportswoman Punaki Pogag shared their personal stories followed by weavers talking about their transformative association with Saneki Weaves. Usha from APART project , Dept. of Agriculture, Sonitpur informed the participants how to access agricultural schemes, followed by a fun football match and weavers meeting.
On 7th March, community women in Dhemaji celebrated IWD with cultural and sports activities. Bodo women played the traditional instrument ‘Kham’. This was a very significant moment as women are not allowed to play the ‘Kham’ which is considered a divine instrument by the Bodo community. Two OSC counsellors and retired CDPO cum General Secretary of Dhemaji Mahila Samiti were also present as invited guests.
On 7th March, women from Bokhiyal Tea Estate in Golaghat district came together to celebrate IWD through a meeting and folk performances of Jhumur and Karbi dance. Sonalata Dutta, an entrepreneur and trainer shared her inspiring story of overcoming many obstacles. Village head, Samaj Karmi, ex Head Master, joint secretary of Santro Mukt Sangram and district secretary of Jipal Krihok Sangha and social activist were invited as speakers.
IWD celebration by NEN in Darrang, Assam
On 8th March, NEN celebrated the final IWD event at 2 No. Sengapara village in Darrang district. Women came forward to share their stories at a meeting where peer leaders Seema and Rabia begum shared theirs too. They played traditional instruments and performed a fun skit to #BreakTheBias.
#IWD2022
