– An article by Shivani Gadre
As humans, we experience and express everything on a wide range of levels, and it is diverse for everyone. We can experience simple things at varied depths according to each of our perceptions and interpretations. But we limit ourselves by creating and accepting societal norms, expectations, and varied stereotypes.
Gendering involves the specific characteristics, roles, behaviors, and clothing styles assigned to individuals based on their genders by societal norms, expectations, and cultural practices. Mainly categorizing individuals, objects, and behavioral patterns as either masculine or feminine perceptions. Gendering reinforces the idea that certain roles and behaviors are associated with being male or female. A simple example of this is that certain professions or certain things are strongly associated with having a masculine or feminine personality. Such as wearing skirts or Anarkali kurtas, which are viewed as feminine or women’s clothing. During the film promotions and award shows, Ranveer Singh wore a skirt, due to which he was criticized on many levels. There are many incidents where people are questioned about their demeanor just because it doesn’t fit into the stereotypical notions set by society. The Hindu and Mughal kings and emperors used to wear anarkali kurtas, earrings, necklaces, bajubands, and many more ornaments, but they were never criticized for their demeanor. Professions like electricians, mechanics, cab drivers, and many more are only viewed as men’s jobs. Whereas nannies, playgroup teachers, and caretakers are widely preferred if they are women.
These gendered notions are not inherent and shouldn’t be fixed; through social constructs, they are deeply rooted in every one of us. For instance, baby showers are celebrated with a theme of blue and pink color. The very basic things are gendered, and no one ever questions them. Why not choose a pink color for the celebration of the birth of a baby boy? Why is pink always viewed and categorized as the ‘girl’s color’ or ‘girly’? If colors are the way of human expression, then why is it gendered? Even basic human expressions are gendered. If a boy child is crying, then he is told not to cry by saying, “Kya ladki ki tarah rota hai?” Instead of consolation, he receives judgements for expressing his emotions since childhood. Isn’t expressing your emotions basic for every human? Expression of feelings and emotions must not be gendered. But the sad reality is that it is gendered, and often men and boys are criticized for speaking their minds and expressing themselves openly.
Obviously, some aspects of gendered categorization can serve as a way to identify and understand differences, but they can also reinforce harmful stereotypes and restrict individual expression and opportunities. These gendered expectations can shape the opportunities, behavior, and self-perception of individuals, as well as influence how society views and treats them. Gendering usually limits an individual’s freedom, reinforces inequality, and contributes to discrimination and gender-based biases. It is important for everyone to recognize that gendering is a social norm and not inherent to biological sex.
However, breaking societal norms is not very easy and can be challenging at times, but it is necessary. Societies evolve over time and challenge gendered notions and stereotypes. In order to dismantle gendering, it is essential to promote gender equality, acknowledge gender diversity, encourage individuals to express themselves beyond traditional gender norms, and accept them as who they are in the process. This is very important for breaking gendering or societal stereotypes and also for that individual. These efforts aim to create a society that embraces authentic individuals, free from restrictive societal stereotypes, where diverse experiences and identities are cherished and respected.
