Pune
While International Women's Day may have officially passed, its empowering impact continues to resonate across Pune. Moving beyond a mere one-day celebration, a highly commendable and unique initiative was undertaken.
This event took place in the Kashiwadi area of Bhavani Peth, beautifully blending the spirit of women's empowerment with the holy month of Ramadan. A special 'Roza Iftar party' was organised exclusively for women from the Muslim community.
It set a remarkable example of sisterhood and communal harmony. Indira Avinash Bagwe and the Krantiveer Lahuji Vastad Salve Ekta jointly organised the event.
The objective of this Iftar was not just breaking the fast. It was meant to create a meaningful platform to strengthen conversations around education, health, national integration, and religious tolerance among Muslim women.
Women from the surrounding areas attended the event in large numbers, demonstrating their immense support and enthusiasm.
The event saw prominent social activists like Mukta Foundation's President Indira Avinash Bagwe and Secretary Farzana Khan. They were joined by female police officials Rani Jadhav, Head Constable Rani Raut, and Constable Aarti Gaikwad.
The presence of women in uniform served as a strong symbol of safety and confidence for the local women.
Furthermore, Secretary Manisha Kshirsagar, Dilshad Shaikh, and Komal Bavkar actively participated in the ceremony. The Pratishthan's Jyoti Adagale, Priyanka Bhonde, Malan Kasbe, and numerous other women were also present.
Women at the Iftar
A notable highlight of this initiative is that for the past three years, this Iftar has been organised exclusively for women. The core sentiment behind this tradition is to foster unity, affection, and open dialogue among women of the community.
Indira Bagwe emphasised that their focus extends far beyond just celebrating festivals. Through the Mukta Foundation, various small-scale industries and businesses have been launched for women of all castes and religions in the ward.
These initiatives include tailoring units and handicraft businesses. Because of this sustained grassroots work, countless women have gained access to employment opportunities and are successfully becoming financially independent.
At the conclusion of the event, the attendees expressed deep satisfaction with the initiative. They shared that coming together to celebrate a religious festival while highlighting the ongoing mission of Women's Day marks a fresh beginning.
ALSO READ: Sofia Firdaus: an accidental politician who is here to stay
This unique and holistic approach to women's empowerment is being appreciated by all sections of society.
