Shrinkhala Khatiwada was recently invited on a trip to Achham by Social Campaign for Social Change. The new vlog shows Shrinkhala experience a night staying in a chhau-goth. The vlog meets documentary, possibly vlogumentary, showcases Shrinkhala take a moment as she narrates her experience and how it is far different to what many women and young girls experience in the village.
The practice of chhaupadi has created much discussion in and outside of Nepal. While a law had been introduced to punish and fine individuals that practice chhaupadi, I believe there has been no arrests made till date. Chhaupadi makes the news for many different reasons but sometimes they also grab headlines when young girls and women lose their lives for many different reasons including suffocation.
Over the past few months, I have read several articles from people who have gone out to communities where chhaupadi practice continues. Like how Shrinkhala respectfully summarises her observation – even the articles I have read call for a different approach in educating people.
Mindset and culture is difficult to change and it seems that being patient and using the best catalyst is an approach one has to take. That’s my view – I’d love to hear yours?
READ: A NEW TAKE ON WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
READ: CHHAUPADI THE DEATH OF WOMEN’S DIGNITY ONE MENSTRUAL CYCLE AT A TIME