𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲

Menstrual hygiene day — let’s start cleaning our thoughts

Imagine being 11 and scared because you’re bleeding for the first time.

Instead of comfort and love, you receive contempt and isolation.

Menstruating girls and women continue to face isolation and shame in India.

2 in 5 girls in India do not have access to safe menstrual products.

Girls continue to drop out of school at menarche.

As we celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day, let us clean our thoughts and attitudes.

Periods with dignity.

𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲

.

A separate plate and glass
Filled with contempt and cold meals.
Can the pain of heartbreak
Surpass debilitating cramps?

.

A simple mat and an air pillow
In a faraway corner so cramped.
Can’t you afford the comforts
When she needs them the most?

.

She weeps alone,
A pariah in her own home.
Didn’t you welcome her as a goddess
Who fills your home with delight?

.

Her cries of pain disturb your sleep.
You reluctantly throw a hot-water bag.
Are kindness and love
Only meant for good times?

.

You grimace with distaste
At the sight of bloodstains.
Did you forget their origin —
The genesis of your bloodline?

.

From mother to daughter,
It’s a sacred circle of life.
You celebrate her fertility
And yet label her impure?

.