Women rise and dance against sexual violence

Joining the global “One Billion Rising Campaign”, organisers in Jaipur and Ahmedabad raised awareness on violence against women and the need for equality through programmes of contrasting styles.

Rajasthan governor Margaret Alva administered a pledge of equality to college students, teachers and employees of educational institutions at an event which was also attended by Jaipur Mayor Jyoti Khandelwal.

Addressing the gathering, social activist Aruna Roy said, “We had to reclaim our freedom from our homes, workplaces, farms, fields, panchayats and led the slogan we want Azaadi.” She also urged that the time had come to just rise and say “we have had enough”.

The event in Ahmedabad had traditional and jazz music respectively by Malika Sarabhai and “Space chose”, a Delhi-based all-girl band.

As many as 13 women also shared their life experiences at the event, where various groups and organisations like NID, MICA and PRL joined hands to show their solidarity for the mammoth project.

The event was held at the Gujarat Vidyapith, a university set up by Mahatma Gandhi.