The Indian Festival That Celebrates Menstruation- main image

The Indian Festival That Celebrates Menstruation

Pinkishe Foundation

June 21, 2024

Menstruation in India is often shrouded in stigma and taboo, with societal norms encouraging women to hide their periods and feel ashamed of this natural process. Amidst this backdrop, the Raja festival in Odisha stands out as a celebration that honors menstruation. Raja Parba, also known as Mithuna Sankranti, marks the onset of the monsoon season and celebrates the feminine aspects of the earth. The festival’s name is derived from "Rajaswala," meaning "menstruating woman." It is believed that Bhudevi, the personification of Earth, undergoes menstruation during these three days in mid-June. The festival unfolds over three days: Pahili Raja, Raja Sankranti, and Basi Raja, with the fourth day, Vasumati Snana, symbolizing Bhudevi’s ritual bath and the end of her menstrual cycle. During Raja Parba, women in Odisha refrain from physical labor, dress in new clothes, adorn themselves with traditional jewelry, and apply aalta on their feet, symbolizing their connection to the earth. They engage in singing folk songs, playing indoor games, and swinging on decorated rope swings. This celebration acknowledges and honors their natural biological process, teaching young girls that menstruation is not something to be hidden or ashamed of, but rather a natural and revered aspect of life. Similar festivals in other Indian states, such as Manjal Neerattu Vizha in Tamil Nadu and Ritu Kala Samskara in Karnataka, celebrate the onset of puberty in girls, further challenging the menstrual stigma.Raja Parba’s celebration of menstruation offers a refreshing contrast to the prevailing negative perceptions, emphasizing that menstruation is a vital and respected part of life, much like the fertility of the earth it symbolizes. This acknowledgment from the community serves as an important lesson in embracing natural bodily processes without shame.

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The Indian Festival That Celebrates Menstruation- main image
Social Issues
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Social Issues
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Social Issues
Tracing the Evolution of Period Stigma: From Ancient Beliefs to Modern Solutions

Period stigma, though prevalent today, has a long history steeped in cultural beliefs and societal norms. From ancient civilizations to modern innovations, the perception of menstruation has evolved significantly, yet challenges persist. Let's delve into the historical and cultural journey of menstruation and its impact on society. Ancient Perceptions: In ancient times, menstruation was shrouded in mystery and superstition. With limited understanding of biology, ancient societies often associated menstruation with mystical powers and religious significance. Despite its significance, documentation about periods among ancient peoples is scarce, primarily due to male-dominated historical records. However, glimpses into ancient beliefs reveal a complex tapestry of myth and reality. In various cultures, menstruating women were revered for their perceived connection to lunar cycles and fertility. Pliny the Elder's writings portrayed menstruation as a potent force capable of influencing natural phenomena. Similarly, Mayan mythology attributed menstrual blood to divine punishment and mystical transformation. While menstruation held symbolic significance in ancient cultures, the practical aspects remain elusive. Historians speculate about the materials used for menstrual hygiene, ranging from cloth to plant-based remedies. However, concrete evidence is scarce, leaving much to conjecture. Medieval Interpretations: During the Middle Ages, menstruation continued to be shrouded in secrecy and religious shame. Dr. Sara Read's research sheds light on how medieval European women navigated menstruation, often resorting to rudimentary methods like rags or absorbing blood into clothing. Religious taboos further stigmatized menstruation, associating it with sin and impurity. In medieval Europe, women went to great lengths to conceal their menstrual cycles, resorting to herbal remedies and seclusion. Religious doctrines reinforced the notion of menstruation as a reminder of Eve's Original Sin, perpetuating shame and silence.

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An iilustration showing menstruation
Social Issues
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While India strides ahead in numerous social spheres, it still grapples with the profound issue of menstrual health and hygiene, particularly due to severe period poverty. Shockingly, UNICEF reports that only 13% of Indian girls are informed about menstruation before their first period. Additionally, infrastructure inadequacies and other challenges cause 60% of girls to miss school during their periods or drop out entirely. In some instances, girls lack access to proper restroom facilities, having to use toilets without doors or sharing them with boys, highlighting the urgent need for improvement in this area. Advaitesha Birla, Founder of Ujaas, emphasizes the critical need for menstrual health and hygiene education in India. She sheds light on the prevailing challenges and offers insights into potential solutions. Educational Initiatives: A staggering two-thirds of Indian women lack access to safe menstrual absorbents, resorting to unhygienic alternatives like mud, cloth, and leaves. This practice leads to recurrent infections and, in severe cases, infertility. Lack of clean restroom facilities further exacerbates the issue. Considering the economic constraints faced by many women, affordability of sanitary products remains a significant challenge. It is imperative to ensure that every woman has access to safe menstrual absorbents as a fundamental right. Cost-effective sanitary pads and reusable silicon cups can be promoted at subsidized rates. Training women in rural areas to manufacture cloth sanitary pads offers a sustainable solution, reducing costs and providing income opportunities. Awareness and Gender Equality: Period poverty is deeply intertwined with a lack of awareness about menstruation, perpetuating stigma and myths surrounding this natural biological process. Addressing these misconceptions and educating women about the physiological aspects of menstruation can empower them to manage their menstrual health effectively. Moreover, menstrual hygiene is often neglected due to gender inequality, with many men lacking basic understanding of menstruation. Normalizing discussions about menstrual health and hygiene through public campaigns and educational initiatives, akin to the 'Swachh Bharat' campaign, is essential to combatting period poverty. Community Engagement and Partnerships: Creating robust public-private partnerships is crucial in amplifying the reach and impact of menstrual health awareness programs. Government bodies, NGOs, and corporations must collaborate with grassroots organizations to implement sustainable interventions. Integrating menstrual health education into school curriculums and empowering communities through self-help groups can foster long-term change. Additionally, initiatives should be culturally sensitive, respecting local languages and indigenous cultures to effectively reach rural populations. In conclusion, addressing menstrual health inequities in India requires a holistic approach that encompasses education, awareness, and community engagement. By fostering a supportive ecosystem and empowering women, we can catalyze positive change and pave the way for a future where menstrual health and hygiene are prioritized and accessible to all.

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Social Issues
Breaking the Taboo Around Menstruation

Campaigners are highlighting the detrimental impact of shame surrounding periods on women's mental health. One woman, whose menstrual symptoms were misinterpreted as depression, has created her own social prescribing course. Meanwhile, two sisters leading the Love Your Period campaign stress the urgency of eliminating period taboos for young women. Molly Fenton, who developed Love Your Period, emphasizes the emotional, physical, and mental toll that embarrassment about periods can take on girls. She advocates for open conversations about menstrual health, lamenting the lack of education and discussion within families and schools. Initiatives like Love Your Period aim to normalize discussions about periods, particularly among young girls. Despite facing resistance, the sisters persist in their efforts to challenge societal norms and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding. Their work also aims to raise awareness about conditions like endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which often go undiagnosed due to stigma and lack of understanding. Kate Shepherd Cohen, creator of a social prescription course, shares her journey of discovering the connection between her menstrual cycle and her mental well-being. By charting her cycle and understanding its patterns, she has learned to manage her symptoms effectively.

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An illustration of a girl living in poverty
Social Issues
Empowering Women: Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Health and Human Rights

According to WASH United, an NGO focusing on menstrual hygiene and human rights, approximately 500 million women and girls lack access to safe and hygienic period management, perpetuating feelings of embarrassment and stigma. In response to this global challenge, young feminist activists worldwide are leading grassroots campaigns and social media initiatives to challenge taboos, gender inequality, and period poverty. At the Human Rights Council’s 50th Session in Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelet Bachelet, emphasized the vital role of activism in addressing menstrual health issues. She underscored the intersectional nature of menstrual experiences, highlighting how factors like age, gender, race, disability, and socioeconomic status shape individuals' experiences.

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Illustration on Gen Z
Social Issues
Breaking the Silence: How Gen Z is Revolutionizing Menstrual Discourse and Sustainability

Sapna Palep vividly remembers the embarrassment and fear she felt discussing menstruation when she was younger. Now, as a 43-year-old mother of two, she sees her daughters, 9-year-old Aviana Campello-Palep and 8-year-old Anaya, approach the topic with refreshing openness and confidence. Inspired by their candid conversations, the family has launched Girls With Big Dreams, a line of undergarments for tweens, including reusable period underwear, set to debut in early February. Aviana, embodying the spirit of her generation, views menstruation as a natural aspect of life. She hopes their initiative will empower others to embrace menstruation without shame. This openness among young people regarding periods and environmental sustainability is indicative of a cultural shift in how menstruation is perceived and managed. The market now offers a plethora of reusable period products tailored for teens and tweens, reflecting a youth-driven movement towards eco-friendly alternatives. Michela Bedard, executive director of Period Inc., emphasizes that young menstruators are shaping a new narrative around menstruation, opting for sustainable solutions throughout their lives.

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A picture of women from rural communities in india
Social Issues
Addressing Menstruation Stigma: A Call for Global Action

Ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, human rights experts highlight ongoing harmful socio-cultural norms, stigma, and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. Despite recent efforts to challenge these taboos, further action is needed to address the discrimination women and girls face globally. In many countries, menstruating women are still seen as "contaminated," facing restrictions on daily activities and sometimes being banished to sheds, risking their health and safety. Patriarchal control and stigma undermine their agency and equality. The lack of privacy, clean toilets, and sanitary products worsens the situation, particularly for those in poverty, leading to serious health risks. Stigma also delays diagnoses of painful disorders like endometriosis. Limited menstruation knowledge affects girls' well-being and education, with first menstruation often linked to marriage readiness, increasing risks of adolescent pregnancy. Experts call for global efforts to address menstrual health, transform norms, and eliminate stigma. Despite legislative efforts, harmful practices persist, highlighting the need for continued education and intervention. Organizations like the UN Trust Fund, UNFPA, and UNICEF work to support menstrual health through education, hygiene product distribution, and policy advocacy. Efforts from Bolivia to Nigeria aim to educate communities, distribute hygiene kits, and integrate menstrual hygiene into policies. Progress is being made, but more global action is needed to ensure the well-being of women and girls.

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Illustration on understanding the color of menstrual blood
Advice
Understanding the Colour of Menstrual Blood: What it Indicates About Your Health

Numerous health websites suggest that the colour of menstrual blood could offer insights into a woman's overall health. However, it's essential to note that while changes in colour may indicate various health conditions, it doesn't necessarily imply a serious issue. Here's what different colours of menstrual blood might signify: Dark or Brown Colour: Natural occurrence, indicating older blood shedding from the uterine lining. Often associated with slow blood flow or post-delivery periods. Pink Colour: Usually observed during lighter blood flow at the start or end of the period cycle. The colour change results from the mixture of mucous with blood. Orange or Rusty Colour: Indicates blood mixed with cervical fluid. If persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, medical consultation is recommended. Grey or Green Colour: Unusual colours like grey or green may indicate infections. Medical consultation is advised for proper diagnosis and treatment. Black Colour: Suggests old blood or slow shedding from the uterus. In some cases, it could signal a blocked vagina, especially if accompanied by severe pain or unpleasant odour. Key Considerations: Any sudden changes in bleeding patterns warrant a medical evaluation. For individuals experiencing fertility-related issues alongside changes in bleeding colour, consulting a gynaecologist is advisable. While understanding the colour of menstrual blood can offer valuable insights into one's health, it's crucial to approach any concerns with professional medical guidance. If you notice significant changes or symptoms, don't hesitate to seek timely medical assistance for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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Distressed women in their office
Social Issues
The Period Conversation Project Redefines Workplace Dialogue

For far too long, periods have remained a hushed topic in the workplace, shrouded in discomfort and taboo. However, a groundbreaking initiative called The Period Conversation is striving to change that narrative by fostering open, honest discussions about menstruation and its realities. Traditionally, menstruation has been veiled in discretion and shame, evident even in the branding of period products. But with its modern, interactive campaign website, The Period Conversation heralds a new era of understanding, blending empowerment with education in a stylish presentation. This innovative project is the brainchild of design agency Nice and Serious, born out of its 'Nice Works' initiative, which encourages creative endeavors addressing significant societal issues. Partnering with the charity Bloody Good Period, the interactive platform features questions sourced from individuals who don't menstruate, answered by those who do, supplemented with insights from the charity. This format dismantles the taboo surrounding menstruation, providing valuable information in a visually engaging manner. Sadie Devane, Senior Art Director at Nice and Serious, reflects on the project's genesis, stating, "The Period Conversation started with a conversation within our team about the impact of menstrual cycles on our creative output and the challenges we faced in our professional lives." This dialogue spurred the creation of a resource aimed at initiating similar conversations in workplaces and beyond. The project's visuals intentionally adopt a gender-neutral tone, steering away from the stereotypical pink and red hues associated with period branding. Senior Designer Anna Barton explains, "We aimed for designs that are both bright and inviting yet soft and serious, mirroring the diverse conversations featured." The chosen color palette reflects the four phases of the menstrual cycle, while the graphic elements draw inspiration from the fluidity of period blood, fostering organic dialogue. Creating an inclusive campaign posed challenges, requiring rigorous testing to ensure accessibility across diverse audiences. "We prioritized inclusivity, particularly appealing to men, through language, visuals, and tone," shares Sadie. Anna Barton reflects on her pride in the project's impact, noting, "This is the most personal project I’ve worked on, turning a negative experience into something inventive." Echoing this sentiment, Sadie expresses hope that The Period Conversation will inspire companies to initiate similar dialogues, implement inclusive policies, and support employees, thereby advancing menstrual equity. Rachel Grocott, CEO at Bloody Good Period, underscores the importance of reducing period stigma, emphasizing that providing wider knowledge contributes to the collective goal of menstrual equity. The Period Conversation project stands as a beacon of progress, challenging societal norms, and paving the way for more inclusive workplaces where no one is disadvantaged because of their period.

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Anish Bhagat with his 12 years old younger brother
Social Issues
Breaking Taboos: Sibling Duo's Heartwarming Conversation about Menstruation Goes Viral

In many parts of India, discussing menstruation remains a taboo, particularly in the presence of male family members. However, a heartening Instagram video is challenging this longstanding norm. The video features a man sensitizing his 12-year-old brother about periods, sparking a conversation that's both empowering and crucial. The viral video unfolds with the older brother driving to pick up his younger sibling on his 12th birthday. Captioned with a poignant message advocating for educating boys about menstruation, the video sets a powerful tone for breaking societal barriers. As the birthday boy enters the car, his older brother initiates the dialogue by wishing him a happy birthday. Sensing the younger brother's unfamiliarity with the concept of 'periods,' the elder sibling dives into an informative discussion, delicately explaining the menstrual cycle and its associated experiences, including the pain and discomfort women often endure. The younger brother's surprise at this revelation shows the significance of such conversations. Furthermore, the older brother takes a proactive step by demonstrating how to purchase sanitary napkins, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy in his sibling. The video culminates with a heartfelt message from the younger brother, expressing his commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of women in his life—a testament to the positive impact of open communication and education. Netizens flooded the comments section with words of encouragement and admiration for the siblings' initiative. One user commended the older brother for raising a gentleman, while others echoed the need for more men to follow suit in normalizing discussions around menstruation. This viral video serves as an inspiration to individuals and families to break the silence and embrace dialogue about menstruation with empathy, kindness, and acceptance. To read the full article visit: Man Educates 12-Year-Old Brother About Periods In Viral Video, Internet Says 'Normalise This' (indiatimes.com)

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Silenced by society- picture by Neraj Gera
Social Issues
Capturing the Conversation: Niraj Gera's "Sacred Stains" Sheds Light on Menstrual Stigma in India

In India, the stigma surrounding menstruation runs deep, perpetuating discrimination and exclusion against menstruating women. Social and religious norms have long deemed periods impure, leading to women being barred from temples, kitchens, and various social gatherings. On World Menstrual Hygiene Day, acclaimed photographer Niraj Gera takes a bold step to challenge this stigma with his poignant series, "Sacred Stains." Through his lens, Gera aims to destigmatize periods, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by menstruating women in India. Despite the widespread impact of menstruation, discussions about it remain scarce. Shockingly, a study reveals that 71% of adolescent girls in India are unaware of menstruation until they experience it themselves. This lack of awareness stems from a culture of silence, where parents often fail to prepare their daughters for this inevitable biological process, leading to unnecessary fear and anxiety. Access to menstrual hygiene products presents another significant challenge. While India abolished a 12% tax on sanitary products in 2018 following extensive activism, many women still struggle to afford them. According to a study, only 36% of India's 355 million menstruating females use sanitary napkins, resorting to unsafe alternatives like rags, husk, or even mud and soil. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, disrupting the production and distribution of menstrual hygiene products in India. As a result, millions of women face heightened challenges in managing their periods hygienically. Beyond India's borders, period poverty affects disadvantaged girls worldwide. Many cannot afford sanitary products, resorting to unhygienic substitutes like newspaper or socks. This reality underscores the urgent need for global action to address menstrual health and hygiene. Despite the pervasive stigma, social media has emerged as a platform for women to share their menstrual experiences. Niraj Gera advocates for leveraging this tool to spread awareness and positivity, challenging societal taboos and empowering women to embrace their bodies. Through his charity, the Humanify Foundation, Gera calls for free distribution of pads to women and girls below the poverty line in India, highlighting the economic barriers many face in accessing menstrual hygiene products. The consequences of period stigma extend beyond health implications. Studies show that millions of girls drop out of school annually due to inadequate menstrual facilities and fear of stigma. It's imperative to dismantle these barriers and normalize conversations about menstruation to ensure every woman's right to dignity and education. Niraj Gera emphasizes the need to break the silence surrounding menstruation, advocating for a transformative dialogue that celebrates the natural process of menstruation and empowers women across the globe. "Talking is all it takes to begin a transformation," he asserts. "And it's time we did it."

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Period chart
Tips
Breaking Taboos: Period Charts Empower Women and Normalize Menstruation in India

In a country where menstruation is shrouded in stigma and secrecy, a simple yet powerful initiative is challenging societal norms and empowering women to reclaim their bodily autonomy. The introduction of "period charts" in homes across India is not only revolutionizing how women track their menstrual cycles but also sparking vital conversations that dismantle taboos surrounding menstruation. Supriya Verma, a resident of Kanwari village in Haryana, attests to the transformative impact of these charts. With women in 35 homes in her village proudly displaying their menstrual charts, a culture of openness and understanding has blossomed. These charts serve as more than just tracking tools; they facilitate candid discussions about menstrual health and well-being, breaking down barriers of shame and discomfort. Gone are the days of silently enduring pain and discomfort during menstruation. Families now recognize and respect a woman's need for rest and comfort during her period, a small yet significant shift in attitude fostered by the visibility of period charts. For Supriya, this newfound consideration from her family signifies a tangible change in how menstruation is perceived and managed within her household. The concept of period charts emerged from the visionary mind of Sunil Jaglan, director of the Selfie with Daughter Foundation, known for his pioneering efforts to promote gender equality. Recognizing the need for open dialogue about menstruation, Jaglan initiated the period chart campaign, drawing inspiration from his own journey as a father navigating conversations about menstruation with his daughters. Since its inception, the campaign has gained momentum, spreading to seven Indian states and garnering participation from approximately 1,000 women. Despite facing resistance and criticism, particularly from male detractors, the campaign continues to thrive, buoyed by the determination of women like Priyanka Verma, who defiantly stood her ground in the face of opposition. Today, the demand for period charts is on the rise, signaling a growing acceptance and normalization of menstruation as a natural biological process. Jaglan's efforts extend beyond distributing charts; he conducts online workshops and community gatherings to educate women about menstrual health and hygiene, providing them with the knowledge and tools to navigate their menstrual cycles confidently. Anju Panghaal from Mandkola village echoes the sentiments of countless women across India who have long grappled with the silence and shame surrounding menstruation. By embracing period charts, Anju and others are reclaiming their agency and challenging age-old taboos that have dictated their lives for far too long. As period charts adorn the walls of homes across India, they serve as symbols of resilience, empowerment, and progress. With each chart proudly displayed, another taboo is shattered, paving the way for a more inclusive and enlightened society where menstruation is no longer whispered in hushed tones but celebrated as a natural and integral part of womanhood.

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Menstrual Stigma: The Root Cause of Girls' Education Crisis in India
Social Issues
Menstrual Stigma: The Root Cause of Girls' Education Crisis in India

In India's rural heartlands, a pervasive culture of social exclusion and a dearth of menstrual education perpetuate a vicious cycle of stigma, shame, and ignorance surrounding menstruation. As a result, many young girls are forced to drop out of school or endure ostracization during their monthly cycles, exacerbating gender inequalities in education and perpetuating harmful societal norms. A recent study by UNICEF revealed that a staggering 71% of adolescent girls in India remain unaware of menstruation until they experience it firsthand, often resulting in school dropout rates. Another report by the NGO Dasra underscored the dire consequences of inadequate menstrual hygiene management facilities, with 23 million girls dropping out of school annually due to a lack of access to sanitary products and comprehensive menstrual education. Public health experts, NGOs, and community leaders working in this field highlight a myriad of challenges contributing to the menstrual health crisis in India. Vandana Prasad, a community pediatrician, laments the absence of accurate and comprehensive information about menstruation, which often leaves young girls feeling anxious and uninformed. Furthermore, entrenched social taboos and discriminatory practices, such as denying girls access to certain spaces and foods during their periods, perpetuate shame and embarrassment surrounding menstruation. The challenges extend beyond education to access to menstrual products, exacerbating the physical and psychological burdens faced by girls. Anju Panghaal from Mandkola village describes the immense struggle girls face in obtaining sanitary pads and maintaining hygiene, underscoring the additional burdens imposed on marginalized communities. Jaya Velankar, director of Jagori, emphasizes the dual fears that drive girls out of school once they begin menstruating: the fear of sexual violence and the fear of inter-caste relationships. These fears, deeply rooted in societal norms and prejudices, further entrench the culture of silence and stigma surrounding menstruation. Experts advocate for age-appropriate, standardized sex education as a critical solution to combat menstrual stigma and empower girls with accurate information about their bodies. However, resistance from governments and societal norms pose significant barriers to implementing comprehensive sex education programs. Despite these challenges, advocates remain hopeful for change. Guneet Monga, Oscar-winning film producer, urges stakeholders to continue dialogue and advocacy efforts to dismantle menstrual stigma and support girls' education. Initiatives like involving boys in menstrual education and providing affordable menstrual products offer glimpses of hope for a future where menstruation is no longer a barrier to girls' education and empowerment. Anshu Gupta, founder of Goonj, stresses the importance of reimagining menstrual hygiene through a lens of access, affordability, and awareness. By addressing these fundamental challenges, Gupta believes that India can move closer to achieving menstrual equity and ensuring every girl can attend school without fear or shame.

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Poster representing menstrual hygiene as a neccesity and not luxury
Social Issues
Menstrual Health and Hygiene in India: Progress, Challenges, and the Path Forward

In recent years, India has emerged as a key player in advancing menstrual health and hygiene (MHH). Since the National Health Mission in 2011, significant strides have been made, particularly with the integration of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) into initiatives like the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' and MHM guidelines for schools. The fifth National Family Health Survey showed a notable increase in the use of safe period products among educated women. State-specific schemes like Maharashtra's 'Asmita Yojana' and Kerala's 'She Pad' have further improved access to sanitary napkins for adolescent girls. However, challenges remain. Social taboos continue to restrict girls' and women's lives, leading to practices like menstrual segregation and limited access to sanitation facilities. Incidents such as the killing of a 12-year-old girl in Maharashtra due to menstrual misconceptions highlight the need for education targeting boys and men. Progress on menstrual leave policies is slow, with only Kerala and Bihar implementing them. Women in the informal sector face additional barriers, including lack of access to washrooms and affordable hygiene products. A holistic approach is needed to advance menstrual health in India. This includes supporting marginalized groups, promoting eco-friendly alternatives, addressing menstrual waste disposal, and advocating for menstrual rights. Comprehensive sex education and workplace support for menopausal women are also essential. As India commemorates Menstrual Hygiene Day, it must acknowledge the long road ahead to end period poverty and ensure menstrual equity for all. Prioritizing menstrual health as a fundamental human right can pave the way for a more inclusive and empowered future for all menstruators.

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