Celebrating Women Beyond a Single Day – The Vijayanagar Way
In many parts of the world, International Women’s Day on March 8th is marked by ceremonies, speeches, and symbolic gestures that celebrate the achievements and potential of women. But in Vijayanagar, a quiet yet powerful transformation is underway—one that redefines how and when we choose to honor women.
Rather than confining celebrations to a single day, our community has embraced a more meaningful approach: celebrating women beyond the calendar, in a manner that reflects their everyday strength, contribution, and presence in our lives.
Over the last two years, a unique tradition has taken root in Vijayanagar. Instead of observing Women’s Day solely on March 8, the celebrations are purposefully planned for the days that follow—at a time when there’s more room for inclusion, deeper reflection, and active participation from women in the community.
This delay is not due to neglect, but by design. It allows space for grassroots voices to be heard, for meaningful programs to be executed, and for women—especially those engaged in livelihood activities and community building—to truly take center stage.
On March 8th, there might not be grand displays. But silence does not equate to absence. In Vijayanagar, the spirit of Women’s Day is very much alive, carried quietly but proudly by the women in the villages—particularly the members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
These women, who are often the backbone of both household and community development, gather in small but spirited events, celebrating their own journeys. They reaffirm their strength, sisterhood, and solidarity—not through grand spectacles, but through genuine connection.
At the core of our Women’s Day celebrations are the women working in the Bunkai, Sakhi, and Stitching units of the foundation. These women not only represent the working strength of the foundation, but they also carry with them stories of resilience, creativity, and empowerment.
Thanks to the support of three committed fellows and one foundation staff member, an entire day is designed especially for these women. This day goes beyond symbolic gestures. It’s crafted as a time of celebration, joy, expression, and play—an opportunity for women to be seen, heard, and appreciated.
A Day of Fun
Our celebration is carefully curated to be engaging, energetic, and inclusive. The focus is not only on honoring achievements but also on bringing women together in a joyful, shared experience. The activities are designed to foster teamwork, creativity, and a little friendly competition.
Some of the highlights include:
- Picture Puzzle – Women collaborate to arrange scattered image pieces into a complete picture. It sparks problem-solving, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment.
- Balloon & Cup Game – A playful challenge where women use the air from balloons to knock over cups. It’s a light-hearted activity that brings out everyone’s inner child.
- Musical Chair – A beloved favorite, this game draws participation from over 120 women, filling the space with joy, cheers, and camaraderie.
The event takes place at Vidyanagar JMAX, a venue transformed into a celebration hub where dance and skit performances bring stories to life. Each group brings its own unique culture, flavor, and energy to the stage.
Adding depth to the day’s festivities was a powerful address by the President of JSW Steel Plant, who graced the occasion as our chief guest.
In his moving speech, he spoke of the limitless potential women hold when given the opportunity and trust. He proudly shared that an entire unit within the JSW Steel Plant is operated solely by women—an inspiring testament to women’s leadership, technical skill, and operational excellence.
“If a woman in a house is empowered, the entire household is empowered.”
This simple yet profound message struck a chord with every woman in the room. It echoed the very philosophy we live by in Vijayanagar: empower a woman, and you uplift a community.
More Than a Day—A Community-Driven Movement
What began as a small shift in scheduling has evolved into a quiet but steady movement—a reminder that celebrating women cannot and should not be limited to a single date on the calendar.
It’s about creating year-round spaces for women to:
- Express themselves,
- Be recognized for their talents and contributions,
- Find strength in each other’s stories,
- And feel a deep sense of pride and belonging.
Through dance, play, storytelling, and speeches, the women of Vijayanagar don’t just attend an event—they own it. They are the stars, the audience, and the changemakers all at once.
Women’s day in Vijayanagar reminds us of something powerful: every day holds the potential to be Women’s Day, when we choose to celebrate, support, and stand beside the women around us.
Let us carry forward this spirit—not just as an annual tradition, but as an ongoing commitment to gender equality, dignity, and everyday recognition.
Here’s to celebrating women—today, tomorrow, and every day.
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