Exclusive: Ratna Pathak Shah: “Domestic Violence Arises From Men Wanting Control.” Where Is The Lie?
When would domestic violence stop?
Ratna Pathak Shah in a thought-provoking conversation with Hauterrfly’s The Male Feminist, delved deep into the intricate layers of domestic violence, shedding light on its cultural nuances and societal ramifications. With her wealth of experience and astute observations, Ratna Pathak Shah offered valuable insights into the pervasive issue, drawing from her interactions with women who have endured the scourge of abuse within their own homes. As she unravelled the complexities of domestic dynamics, Ratna Pathak Shah’s reflections illuminated the multifaceted nature of violence within familial settings, underscoring the urgent need for societal introspection and change.
Ratna Pathak Shah’s Take On Domestic Violence
Addressing the prevailing cultural norms, Ratna Pathak Shah reflected on the historical dynamics within households, particularly in urban settings like Bombay. She emphasized the integral role played by women, often referred to as bai or maids, who served as breadwinners in their families. These women, she noted, were frequently trapped in abusive marriages, compelled to endure the hardships inflicted upon them by their husbands and families. Shah recounted hearing numerous distressing accounts from these women, detailing the harrowing experiences of abuse and mistreatment they endured within their households.
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Ratna Pathak Shah On Modern Times
Ratna Pathak Shah highlighted the significant cultural shift witnessed in recent times, wherein women are increasingly empowered to seek employment not out of necessity but as a means of contributing to their family’s income with dignity and autonomy. She contrasted the current scenario with the past, where women often had no choice but to endure abusive relationships due to economic dependence.
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Delving deeper into the root causes of domestic violence, Ratna Pathak Sha touched upon the pervasive need for control within familial dynamics. She attributed much of the violence to entrenched patriarchal structures that have historically perpetuated unequal power dynamics within households. She said, “violence within the family is often because the need for control is their, because of how things have been in the past.” However, she expressed optimism about the gradual societal changes underway, which are challenging these traditional norms and fostering a more equitable environment.
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Ratna Pathak Shah on the latest episode of The Male Feminist also talks about patriarchy, women’s safety, gender norms and more.
First Published: May 10, 2024 5:26 PM
