Workplace challenges faced by women

I am invited to an event tomorrow, where working women are coming together on a platform to discuss and deliberate on the challenges they face at work place. It is a support group that wants to help women not only cope with the issues but also do something concrete so that the challenges can actually be converted into strengths and it becomes a win win for all. Women are not making progress that they have a right to and are capable of.

Frankly speaking I never thought of these issues ever in my career of over two decades and having worked with 3 different organisations. I always believed in gender equity and thought that this is how things worked, that is being fair. Infact the talk tomorrow made be think of the issues and challenges that I have faced as a woman and it was actually like opening the Pandora's box. No matter how we think 'All is Well', it actually isn't! I have tried to list a few of the issues that I have faced and also some my lady colleagues and friends have had to deal with. Some of them were so bad that a lady who was well educated, qualified and extremely capable had to quit the job. Some losing their confidence and not joining the work force ever again.

Men versus women

It is said that the men are from Mars and women come from Venus, maybe there is some truth to it. I wouldn’t even like to think of men and women as being very different. They have their own set of issues to manage. Men might be stronger physically whereas women hold more of emotional strength.  Every journey comes with it's own ups and downs as well as the meandering path that it follows. You can’t question the path unless you have walked that journey. What is easy to either sex may come across as a major challenge for the other. We should be sensitive to that.

Equal opportunities and equal pay

Women around the globe continue to face wage and opportunities gap. The issue has been raised many a times be it in sports or the film industry. These two professions have higher visibility and bigger reach. The voices are heard on a global platform. Do you think it doesn't apply to other professions? It does and I have experienced it myself. Forget the pay even opportunities are not equal; which is worrisome. Each individual has unique skill sets and similar intelligence; will deliver similar results when an opportunity is provided. Women might do better for the gratitude that they feel as things don't come easy to them.

Gender bias and stereotypes

A woman has to face gender bias and stereotypes constantly. Her ability is not at the forefront but she is seen as being less serious about her job. What creates that opinion about her, it's out of my understanding. The work place becomes non inclusive, sometimes the need for a woman to work is questioned. More so if her husband is doing well professionally. Her reason to work may or may not be her husband, it's her own education and capabilities. Every career person has aspirations. It's just that a married woman with children might work on maintaining a work life balance rather than being highly ambitious. But her aspirations cannot be undermined.

Power play and ego clashes

Women team members too work hard and achieve the desired results but they may not be given the due credit. New York University's Heilman and Michelle Haynes of the University of Massachusetts at Lowell have shown that in mixed-sex teams, credit is far more often given to the male than the female team member. Specifically, female members were rated as being less competent, less influential and less likely to have played a leadership role in work on the task. Both women and men fell into the trap of giving higher marks to the male team member. Some men can't handle women doing anything better than them at work place. If the boss happens to have this kind of a mindset, the women can never grow in an organisation like that. Forget professional growth just survival in such work places becomes extremely difficult, it is toxic!

Sexual harassment

Women face unwelcome sexual behaviour, which could make them feel offended, humiliated or intimidated. It can be physical, verbal or written. Women around the globe spoke about #Metoo, letting the world know how large and how serious the issue was. Women face it everyday, they are treated differently just for being who they are. Having strong biases and not giving them what they work for, is a harassment. Mental harassment is a serious issue!

Empowerment and fair representation

In any work culture, relationships are necessary for employees to attain professional success. Women in particular need support from people in positions of authority who use their influence intentionally to help others progress. That support and empowerment are essential to ensuring career advancement and professional development. Women may have a lot of mentors but they also need advocates or supporters, who will give them visibility, talk about their accomplishments on the board and promote them for higher opportunities.

Competent woman, a threat

A woman is not considered worthy of promotions after a certain level. This is a major problem that still plagues women.  Specially when they are competent, they are also often judged to be unlikable  by both men and women. In fact the more accomplished women become, the more they may suffer in the workplace. Leadership is actually supporting the people below you and getting more joy out of their advancement than your own. A competent person is an asset to an organisation, not a threat.

Lack of women role models

There are very  few  examples of women role models in workplaces. You can’t be what you can’t see. Research shows that almost two-thirds of women reported a lack of senior or visibly successful female role models as a major obstacle to their career advancement. Not many women hold leadership roles in spite of a substantial representation at work place. Give them the wings and see them soar high. Not just them flying but they take the entire organisation to great heights.

We have come a long way but there are miles to go before there's fair representation and equal opportunities for women. Let's make workplaces productive and happy not just profitable businesses. Women dream to get equal opportunities and recognition for their work, which is long due. Let's all make that dream a reality. A woman has the power and ability to make castle with every brick thrown at her.

PS Pictures are taken from Google for representational purpose, with due credits.

Rann Utsav - The Tent City, Kutch.

The background

People make new year resolutions, I've never made any and won't do so yet. But like every year will count my blessings. 2017 has been challenging for me and the family but we feel blessed that all ended up fine. We have emerged stronger in spirit and as a family. It was filled with stressful situations and many injuries. Started off with my knee, an ACL tear in September followed by husband meeting with a minor accident onboard; that he didn’t even share with me. Got to know only when he reached home in November. We were recuperating, me avoiding the surgery and husband getting better. Came December and we were set for a planned holiday just then my dear husband fell during a football match and twisted his other knee. All plans came to a standstill as I didn’t want to make him go through any stress or strain. He needed rest but he being a true shippy, the diehard sailor that he is, was ready to embark on the planned vacation. 
I had cancelled the holiday at the Rann festival, the tent city in Bhuj, Gujarat, India. Made last minutes arrangements again and paid a bomb for the expenses, the flight tickets as well as the hotel booking had gone up many folds. Time is important, who knows it better than the sailor and his better half. We did take a short vacation and it turned out to be a good idea, we came back rejuvenated and happy. 

Kutch nahi dekha tou kuchh neahi dekha 

Kutch, located in the state of Gujarat, is blessed with one of the most ecologically and culturally abundant landforms. The profusion of nature’s beauty, culture and tradition, superfluity of colors and celebrations, cornucopia of joy and beauty, all together reflect the magnificence of the kaleidoscopic Kutch. Particularly, the spectacular sight of the boundless white desert under the moonlight beautifully showcases this stunning creation of nature to us all. One of the biggest salt deserts in the world, the great Rann of Kutch is known the world over for it's natural splendor.  Magnificent is the word that one could simply use and glorify the natural beauty of this region. It is also blessed with  distinctive folk dances, music, arts and crafts. The affluent handicraft like textiles, exquisite embroidery, Bandhani style of work, traditional ornaments and mirror work are some of the specialties of Kutch,  The people are gracious and nature is truly blessed! 

We had heard about the Rann Utsav that is organised at the tent city from November to February each year. We wanted to experience it. Husband wanted to drive down but I wasn't keen on that because of his knee injury. So we decided to fly instead.

The Tent City

Rann Utsav’s tent city is perched on arid, barren and cracked land.  Creating an entire tent city in a  place like that is extremely commendable. The arrangements made by the Gujarat Tourism Board are truly praiseworthy. Impeccable planning and execution must have gone in to develop a complex sprawling over an area of about 500,000 Sq. Mts. More than 350 tents with several blocks for entertainment, dining and cultural as  well as fun activities are set up.

We booked the 2N3D package at the Rann Utsav. Took early morning flight to Bhuj from Mumbai. There are only 2 flights to Bhuj, Jet Airways and Air India. Last minute ones specially during the peak season can be really expensive. We had to buy the tickets at the airport so you can imagine!

We were at the Bhuj airport at 7.25 am, there was a pick up waiting for us. Now onwards the Rann Utsav team would take care of us till we were back here for our flight back home. As you can see from the itinerary that all your time is planned well by the organisers. If you don't want to follow the itinerary but just relax, you can do that too. They have enough within the tent city to keep you not only occupied and engaged but also absolutely loving your time there!

You can ride on the battery operated carts moving around the tent city, ATV bikes can be tried on, do some reading at the library, use the spa, shop at the handcraft shops or the market right behind the White Rann or simply meditate inside your well appointed tents. Children's play area has many activities that they can enjoy such as the tandem cycle,  archery, trikke, Segway, paint ball, rifle shooting etc 

Our Itinerary- 2N3D package

Day 1

Transfers from Bhuj to Tent City Dhordo 

08:15 AM - From Airport Bhuj

Distance from Bhuj to Tent City Dhordo is approx 85 Kms, which takes approx 1 hr 45 mins. Complimentary Refreshment enroute Dhordo in bus.

Arrival at Tent city from Bhuj

12:30 Onwards	Welcome & Check - In
12:30PM to 02:30 PM	Lunch at respective Dining Area
02:30 PM to 04:00 PM	Enjoy in-house activities.
04:00 PM to 05:00 PM	Evening Tea/Coffee
05:00 PM to 05:30 PM	Transfer to White Rann to witness the Grandeur of Sunset.
	Mode of transfer can be through Camel Cart / Bus on first come first serve basis. Guest will have to return by the same mode of transfer.

07:00 PM to 07:30 PM	Return Transfers to Tent City Dhordo
07:30 PM to 10:00 PM	Dinner at respective Dining Area
08:30 PM to 10:30 PM	Enjoy the culture of Kutch along with entertaining activities.

Day 2

06:00 AM to 06:30 AM	Morning tea
06:30 AM to 07:30 AM	Transfer to White Rann to witness the grandeur of Sunrise.
07:30 AM to 10:00 AM	Breakfast at respective Dining Area
09:30 AM to 08:00 PM	Optional Chargeable Tour (This can be booked along with package). Mandvi Kutch Mandvi is an important beach famous among travelers for peace and solitude. Mandvi has beautiful white sand, serene locales and enchanting sunset views. Dist. from Tent City is approx. 140 kms one way, which takes approx. 2.5 hr
	Indo-Pak Border
	Get the feel of how our BSF Jawans guard the border. Dist. From tent city is approx. 160 kms. With a travel time around 3 hrs.
	Guests opting for optional tour will miss complimentary tour to Gandhi Nu Gaam & Kala Dungar as scheduled below.
10:00 AM to 12:30 PM	Enjoy in-house activities.
12:30PM to 02:30 PM	Lunch at respective Dining Area
02:30 PM to 7:30 PM	Complimentary Tour to Kala Dungar [Black Hill] Kala Dungar is the highest point in Kutch. On the route visit to Handicraft Village “Gandhi Nu Gaam” Tea/Coffee shall be provided at Kala Dungar Complimentary Refreshment in bus.
7:30 PM to 10:00 PM	Dinner at Respective Dining Area
8:30 PM to 10:30 PM	Enjoy the Culture of Kutch along with entertaining activities.

Day 3

06:00 AM to 07:00 PM	Morning Tea
07:30 AM to 09:30 AM	Breakfast at respective Dining Area
09:30 AM	Check out from Tent City
09:30 AM	Departure to Bhuj with a complimentary sight-seeing on the way.

* Complimentary sight-seeing places of interest in Bhuj

• Sri Swami Narayan Temple  
• Kutch Museum
• Bhujodi (Handicraft village & Craft Park)

The package costed us more than regular as we had to amend the arrival and departure dates, something I couldn't convince the lady at the reservations desk. I will have a regret there and also regret that the travel agent couldn't get me good deals on the air fare and his inability to get suitable refund on the booked tickets. This trip has been one of the most expensive ones that we have undertaken. But no regrets it was worth it! I am thankful to the girls handling this booking Apeksha from Smartstay.in and Shivani from Rann Utsav reservations, because of them we could get the last minute booking. The only reason I am highlighting this fact is that one must certainly experience it. May be we'll do a road trip next time and be a part of the festival again. This only goes on to prove that we had a great stay at the tent city and I very strongly recommend people to experience it.

We reached the tent city,  the first impression was WOW. It looked amazingly beautiful, truly an oasis in the arid land. the reception hall was huge and had many counters for check in. I could imagine what was to unfold. The hotelier in me said that a lot of thought had gone into managing the operations. We checked in and were directed to our tent in cluster K. There are clusters from A to N and each having many tents. We were told that there were 900 guests in house. 

Things that amazed me was that in spite of being in a barren land, there was hardly any dust. Green cover was created with the carpeting in each cluster along with the sitting area, to laze around and simply absorb the mesmerizing beauty of the place.

We have stayed in tents before but this one was more spacious, with an attached bath and hot water that was really hot!  The accommodation was good for our family of four. We did require an extra bed for the night. The tent had all amenities that one could find in a 4/5 star hotel. 

We did all activities as per the package. Each was memorable be it the grandeur of sunrise or the sunset on the white Rann or the Kala Dungar. Para motoring, trikke, tandem cycling, rifle shooting, visiting the art gallery, star gazing or simply relaxing in our tent.

On the second day of our stay, on our way to the sunset point at Kala Dungar we visited  a village called Gandhi nu Gam, The local women  had many articles/ handicrafts on display and sale. Intricately embroidered bed sheets, cushion covers, bags, purses, wallets, dress materials, traditional clothing, shawls and other household items. Beaded accessories such as all kinds of jewelry,  and footwear were available for sale. It was a delight for the shoppers. They didn't want to be photographed. So one must respect that and don't click any pictures without their permission.

My take on the festival

• It has reached near to being perfect - Learnt from the staff that it was started 11 years ago as a festival lasting 3 days. From the last couple of years it is a festival that runs from November to February. Having spent more than 20 years in the industry, I know what it takes to reach  this level of service.
• 

  Service was spontaneous and from the heart. The staff were on their toes all the time to ensure that all guest needs were addressed. Timely service and prompt response to all requests was impressive indeed. Walkie-talkies were used for quick communication. There's no phone in the tents but cluster supervisor's mobile number is available so one can connect with him anytime for any requirement. Out cluster supervisor was Salman and he along with his team did a fabulous job.
• The dining halls were well maintained and service was good with attentive and courteous staff. All three meals and high tea were served here. 
• Food was vegetarian with a choice of Jain selection. Live counters were there for rotis (Indian breads), snacks such as pani puri and also for pastas. The buffet provided good variety with highlights of the local cuisine. There was something for every palate. I loved the local rustic cuisine.
• Live music during dinners was a highlight, the diners could request a song to dedicate to someone they loved. I dedicated one of my favorites to my dear husband.
• The transportation facility for the airport/ railway station or for sightseeing was comfortable and well managed, similar to the way they do in Thailand, which caters to many groups from around the globe. I was impressed.
• Early morning tea was brought to the tents at 6 am, a staff from the dining hall would bring the tea and announce it. Not really invading into the privacy but if one was awake could have the masala tea or coffee.
• The baggage was handled professionally and with minimal inconvenience to the guest. They deal with many guests arriving and checking out each day. So this service is extremely important.
• There's a market inside the tent city to meet shopping needs and some indulgences, all kinds of local handicrafts and souvenirs are available. A bigger market is just outside the tent city if one wishes to have a look at a wider range of things.
• A special photo booth is created outside the reception hall. A local elderly gentleman manning it with all kinds of props available for the guests who wish to use them and get photographed, carrying memories of their stay at the tent city.
• Doctor is available in case of any emergency.
• Entertainment area has live shows every evening from 8.30 pm to about 10.30 pm. Good opportunity to see the local folk performances, post dinner. There's no television in the tents so this is a great way to unwind with some good music and dance where musicians, dancers, comedians and puppeteers keep the audience entertained.  Kutchi folk melodies fill the air with traditional instruments such as the Narr, bhor, jhanjh and the likes. You can do some star gazing too before you retire for the night.
• Tours are organised for witnessing the sunset at the Great Rann, the white desert or the Kala Dungar, the highest point in the Kutch. One can also go to see the sunrise at the Rann. 
• Well planned, executed and managed facility, I'd give it a 5 star rating if there was any. Would recommend everyone to go experience it and also support the local population in earning their livelihoods. Tourism has a multiplier effect let the benefit reach the local craftsmen and the general population.
• Gujarat Tourism has done a good job in creating the tent city, the model can be replicated in many places across India.

New Year New Beginnings!

Read this so called important notice, this morning:

It's recommended to regular morning walkers / runners / riders to avoid morning workouts from 1st to 5th January 2018. Heavy crowd of resolutionary people are expected during this period. Situation will get normal from 6th January.

It did bring a smile and also the realization that it’s the New Year, the new beginning for events to unfold. I had my mind filled with many thoughts. First one, being the new year resolution itself. People do make new year resolutions and I’ll continue with the tradition of not making any. But like every year will count my blessings. 2017 has been challenging for me and the family but we feel blessed that all ended up fine. We have emerged stronger in spirit and mightier as a family. It was filled with stressful situations and many injuries. Started off with my knee, ACL tear in September followed by husband meeting with a minor accident onboard; that he didn’t even share with me. Got to know only when he reached home in November. We were recuperating, me avoiding the surgery and husband getting better. Came December and we were set for a planned holiday just then my dear husband fell during a match of football and twisted his other knee. All plans came to a standstill as I didn’t want to make him go through any stress or strain. He needed rest but he being a true shippy, the diehard sailor that he is, was ready to embark on the planned holiday. I had cancelled the tour to Rann festival, the tent city in Bhuj, Gujarat, India. Made last minutes arrangements again and paid a bomb for the expenses, the flight tickets as well as the hotel booking had gone up many folds. Nothing matters when it comes to the family. Time is important, who knows it better than the sailor and his queen. We did take a short vacation and it turned out to be a good idea, we came back rejuvenated and happy. 

The new year eve was quiet, just the two us sitting with some nice wine and our favourite starters. We didn’t want to go out for parties that we were invited to. Children were more interested in the carnival organized in our housing society. Learnt the true meaning of parental control; it’s the children who control their parents choices! We loved the choice that our children made, it gave us the much needed ‘US’ time. 
We welcomed the new year together after many years, also husband had a surprise gift for me, a beautiful diamond ‘haath phool’, an ornament worn on the hand.  He said for the missed anniversaries and birthdays. Over the years, material gifts have ceased to have any place of importance in my life but this one was special; for the efforts that my man had put in to select something which is truly a masterpiece. I have all my appreciation for the craftsmen.

It’s time for me to get back to the office and my regular routine, children still have a couple of days of their vacation and the sailor will be preparing to join back on duty. But I’d really want him to spend some time in the village, that’s where he loves to be, close to nature. He is a simple man and loves the simplicity of the village life.

I wish to keep all negativity away from my life, no undue arguments, I speak my mind and sometimes that becomes a problem for others especially the ones who can't face truth. Will I change that? never! I'll continue to speak and stand for what I believe in but without arguments. My lessons this year have been:

Family is the true strength

Your family is the biggest strength that you'll ever have, invest in it. Social media will give you a lot of virtual friends. Most of them will be just your contacts, instead of building a longer lists there invest on the relationships both personal and professional. We have a close family that we love and value but we spend more waking hours at the work place. Work colleagues too must build and nurture that professional friendship and bonding. Work environment has to be healthy and fun. Collaborations, teamwork and partnerships actually decide the success of an organisation, not the brilliant human resources that can't work as a team. 

  

Always be ready

We all make great plans and put all our thoughts and actions towards fulfilling them. If that plan doesn't work  for us we are completely shattered. Remember we make plans for ourselves, ‘He’ makes plans too! Sometimes it’s good to trust His plans and be ready to take on whatever comes our way.  A slight change in attitude can do a lot more to one's confidence. It’s only that confidence and self belief that'll create success for you. So be ready like a soldier.

Do what your heart desires

Life is so unpredictable, last couple of months we have witnessed so much around us. It'll be true to say that nothing comes with a guarantee. Make the most of whatever is close to your heart and now is the time! Never miss an opportunity to express your love, gratitude and even disappointments. Use the magic words often. 

Create balance in your life

Create the work life balance, that everyone talks about these days. It’s your life and you know the best, trial and error method is the only solution. No expert or self help books can ever chart it out for you. You are unique and so is the situation around you. You must feel energized, happy, optimistic and at peace with your surroundings. This is what I feel the balance should create in your life. Finding 'Me' in the middle of things and keeping stress at bay!

Treat your body as your temple

Good health is your biggest wealth and literally so. Healthy body harbors a healthy mind. Take care of it, dedicate at least 30 minutes a day in worshiping that temple! Find a fitness regime that you enjoy and the one that works for you. Walking, jogging, swimming, yoga, working out at the gym or following any sport that you love will take care of your fitness. Eating healthy is equally important as it contributes to your stamina and endurance. If over 35 years of age, one needs to get the routine health checkups done. If you love your body it'll love you back. 

Remember to count your blessings

Be grateful for what you have, the best things in life actually come for free. You must know to recognise them, invite them in your life and ensure that they stay. All good things are to be shared, ensure that you do a good turn each day. There's greater happiness in giving, sharing and bringing a smile on someone else's face!  

Never cease to love yourself

The person you know the most is the one in the mirror. Who knows the journey walked by him/ her better than you? Who has seen him all through the thick and thin? Be proud of that person and be his biggest support system. He needs you all the time, keep giving him the 'push' when he needs it the most. Be your own cheerleader! 

Find a reason to rejoice

Celebrate anything that deserves one, big or small doesn't matter. But you having basked in that moment of glory matters indeed. Milestones, benchmarks, successes or lessons learnt, special occasions, friendships, family get togethers; all are reasons enough to celebrate. Celebrate life!

As we turn yet another page and walk towards the new beginnings,  May it be the beginning for each one of us to celebrate who we truly are and reach our highest potential personally, emotionally, spiritually and professionally. May we live happily, love unconditionally, be the best versions of ourselves and shine brightly in our inner lights leading us to a new journey within. Afterall happiness resides within us!

Wishing you all a very happy, healthy, peaceful and incredible New Year 2018!