What it Means to be an Indian

For some, the thoughts come easily, dripping with patriotism or pure venom. For others, it needs hours of conversation for the words and feelings, usually buried deep or hardly ever considered, to surface. INDIA TODAY presents frank, unguarded thoughts of some of the best known -- and some totally unknown -- people across the nation who make up the fabric of India. After 50 years of Independence, this is the voice of India, a reflection of who we are. It shows how far we have come. And how far we need to go.

Interview by KALLI PURIE
Photograph by BANDEEP SINGH

TABU, winner of National Award for best actress
I think among women there is some confusion about their identity. That's probably because they haven't had as much of a chance to express their identity as men. So they still have apprehensions. But it's still a very nice thing because 50 years ago, they had no identity. The only identity an Indian woman had is that she is a good daughter, a good wife, a good mother.
Women have followed these rules and regulations, that they should serve their husbands and in-laws. And over the years, this became the identity of Indian womanhood. Now it's beginning to change. So it's a good thing that people are more aware of women's rights. And women are more aware.

Back

Write to us | Subscriptions

Editorial Office:
F-14/15, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110 001, India
Tel: (+91 11) 331 5801-04/Fax: 331 6180

© Living Media India Ltd