Ep 39. Feminism: What a Hindu Family Needs to Know

Ep 39. Feminism: What a Hindu Family Needs to Know

Author: Hindu Parenting March 8, 2024 Duration: 1:09:45

Episode 39: A conversation about feminism with Prof. Madhu Purnima Kishwar (Founder, Manushi Trust and one of India’s most distinguished academics in the social sciences).

The social sciences are a black box for most Hindu parents. The western social sciences hold a disproportionate influence on our lives and our collective future, hence it is essential to talk to our children about feminism and other western movements. This conversation will help bring clarity to feminism and situate it in the Hindu context.

Feminism is derived from the Abrahamic thought system which is binary and rooted in perennial conflict. It is different from the dharmik worldview which is based on harmony, balance and consensus. What explains the rise of Marxism, feminism and other theories? What is the danger in viewing dharmik cultures through these modern lenses? Are feminists happy? What is the effect of feminism on women, on men, and on the family as a unit? How can Hindu families navigate through this landscape?

Please listen and share!

Prof. Madhu Kishwar started her academic career as a lecturer in a DU college and in 1991 was invited as a professor in CSDS, a leading social science research centre based in Delhi. She was awarded national professorship of ICSSR followed by senior fellow at Nehru Memorial Centre for Contemporary Studies. She has also made several documentary films for Doordarshan.

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Finding your footing as a parent within a rich cultural tradition can feel both deeply meaningful and surprisingly complex. The Hindu Parenting Podcast sits with you in that space, offering thoughtful conversations that go beyond simple advice. Each episode explores the everyday realities of raising children while consciously nurturing their connection to Hindu values, philosophy, and heritage. You’ll hear from parents, educators, and community members sharing their personal journeys, practical challenges, and small victories. The discussions might cover how to naturally introduce concepts like dharma or seva into family life, navigate festivals and stories in a modern context, or foster a genuine sense of identity and belonging. This isn’t about dogma, but about building a thoughtful, resilient framework for your family. Hosted by Hindu Parenting, the podcast serves as a companion for those wanting to raise informed, grounded children who feel a sense of pride and continuity as part of a living civilization. Tune in for authentic dialogue that acknowledges the questions as much as it seeks answers, all centered on the real-world work of nurturing the next generation.
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