We live in a patriarchal society that doesn’t respect its women! As soon as woman step out of house, she has so much to worry about. The whole burden of family reputation and family name is placed on her little shoulders. Even if the sex-deprived monsters make them their victims, it is the women who are blamed!
Given the increasing cases of assault against women, every time they step out of home, they have to make sure they are aware of their surroundings. They look down while walking to make sure no one notices them; hoping they can hide themselves from men’s unwanted gaze.
Many of us have witnessed it. Being cat-called; trying to walk fast on the lonely road so that no man can touch us from behind; scared of being touched or groped in public!
Noticing exactly the same things, slam poet Daaniyal has come up with a poem ‘Shukr’ for Spill Poetry. ‘Shukr’ captures the emotion of relief that a woman feels when she manage to save herself from the assault; the relief that you feel that your body didn’t become victim of unwanted touch; the relief that your character won’t be assassinated!
Speaking on the theme of rape anxiety, victim shaming and the fear that every woman lives with, Daaniyal has given words to the ugly reality that every girl goes through.
We hope there would be a time when we women don’t have to be scared while walking on the streets in our own country! Hope things will change and women can lead their lives like free citizens!