Bunt women called on to recognise their 'shakti'

Mangalore, Aug 24: Under the auspices of Shree Siddivinayaka Prathistana and Sarvajanika Ganeshothsava Samithi, Shakti' – a national Bunt women's convention was held at Bunt's Hostel premises in the city on Sunday.

Sadhvi Mathanandamayi of Odiyoor Mutt inaugurated and blessed the day-long convention, in which several hundred women from the Bunt community participated.

Kannada cine actress and MLC Thara Anuradha said that a woman can achieve anything if she had the willpower and necessary encouragement. “Behind a successful man, there will always be a woman. But, there might or might not be a man behind the success of a woman. Character is primarily necessary in a woman; this along with self-esteem and courage will help you achieve your goals,” she said.

In her presidential address, Puttur MLA Shakunthala Shetty said that in the present day, everyone has begun to realise and accept the importance of a matriarchal society. The Bunt community follows the matriarchal social system from yesteryears, which is a contribution to the society, she said, adding that even in the field of politics, a woman should uphold the maternal attitude.

In the context of rising number of crimes against women in the society, she said that women had a responsibility to the society, of teaching their children to respect women and view them their own mothers and sisters. Children should also be inculcated with religious and spiritual values. Young girls in the present age, want to dress and look like boys, however, they still lack the courage to fight for themselves, she said, adding that women's power should focus on changing the society.

Vice-president of Bunt Sangha, Bengaluru Meera Krishnappa said that we witnessed the maximum number of crimes against women in India. Although women are a symbol of endurance, resilience and strength, we have forgotten the power of women. Each woman should recognise the shakti' within her, she said.

An exhibition of antique currency, cultural and heritage household items was also held as part of the convention.

President of the women's convention Ashajyothi Rai welcomed the gathering.