To be or not to be- by blogger Snehal Gajare

Is it a sin to be born as a woman or is it a blessing to be born as a man? This question has been haunting mankind for ages together.  Gender roles were never inscribed in rule books but have been imposed stringently on both the sexes by the society. We as humans have accustomed ourselves to the societal guidelines of ideals and behaviour that we often refrain from distinguishing what is ethically right or wrong. The rat race of societal acceptance has compelled the sexes to follow their respective gender roles. This led to the emergence of misogyny, the urge for sexual entitlement, power, dominant ideologies, oppression and finally “Rapes”.

Men are always construed to be stronger than women. This belief explicitly restricts them from showing any emotions of fear or sadness. On the other hand women are expected to be more sensitive and feminine. This belief restricts their freedom totally. Men who cry or express their feelings are often construed to be weak or gay whereas women who walk shoulder to shoulder with men are considered to be extremely bold and are referred as tomboys. As a woman, I personally feel that every person (be it a man or a woman) has the right to express oneself and engage in activities that shape their personality. These socially carved gender roles create a sense of dominance among the men and this encourages them to have sexual triumphs over women resulting in rapes. Various studies have also revealed that men rape women either to seek revenge or as a punishment. Objectification of woman as a means of sexual entitlement is deep rooted in the society. Moreover, women are blamed for their rapes merely on the grounds of weaker sex.

The society needs to understand that there is no justification for rape.  I’m not saying that only women are raped. Even men are subjected to rape. The traditional views of masculinity and Femininity and ‘acceptable behaviour’ for both the sexes have to be redefined. To conclude I prefer to state that blaming a rape victim, male or female is a sin. To be or not to be born as a man or a woman is always a blessing and not a sin.