Film & Activism
Around 2008, I started inquiring into patriarchy and misogyny, and its hand in controlling the minds and bodies of women and girls. Soon, I stumbled upon an ancient practice that continue to exist in my native India despite being illegal for over a century.
Known as Devadasi tradition, an inter-generational practice, it auctions off young girls of poor untouchable caste to the highest bidder in the village in the name of religion. Initiated and dedicated to a village deity, they are forbidden to marry and are made to depend on men for support.
It was hard for me to believe such a horrible practice continues. It became my lens to talk about misogyny and patriarchal values in our societies. As I learned more about it, talking about it through studio practice was not enough. I felt the need to join others in helping their voices to be heard.