I am a feminist – not the way it is described in the media these days but the fact that male and female are equal and complement each other. In Hinduism, we have a word called “ardhangini” which means that half of you. The meaning of this is that a male and female complete each other. Hinduism is based on equality of sexes and our rituals and way of life is built around that.
I am married to a man who believes and practice this. We have a great partnership and are equal in all aspects of our relationship. So when I talk about role models, I am always inspired by women who have achieved the balance that I am striving to achieve everyday. And Sheryl Sandberg and Indira Nooyi are two such women!
When I read “Lean In” I was inspired. It is a mans world when you work and here was someone, who was successful in her own right, giving practical tips on how to repeat that in your own world. I have since followed Sheryl on social media and her down to earth attitude and vulnerability is motivating.
Indira Nooyi is an inspiration to all women of Indian origin. Having someone from your own cultural background, with the similar challenges as you, reached the top of the corporate world in a foreign country. Her interviews and TED talks are legendary where she talks about balancing work and home and how she managed it.
These two women are someone I like to meet in person. It is almost impossible but one can hope. By putting it on my bucket list, I can make efforts to fulfill it. And hoping that my friends and loved ones can combine their effort. In this social world, there will be someone who can help me meet these ladies. One day…….
