1. What inspired the three of you to come together and write Modern Patriarchy in a Modern World? Was there a specific incident or moment that triggered the idea?
We originate from a small city where patriarchal norms are prominently expressed. Having grown up in a patriarchal environment, we have witnessed significant instances of female oppression. It is important to recognise that, regardless of the number of academic qualifications one possesses, perpetuating a mindset that prioritises the welfare of sons over daughters, while cloaking this hypocrisy in the guise of protection, perpetuates the existence of patriarchy. Our observations of similar behaviours in our close relatives and family members have prompted us to address this issue. So that we can make the world realise what we fail to realise by calling all those unfair instances a normal culture.
2. The book touches on deep-rooted cultural, religious, and historical aspects of patriarchy.
How did your background as law students influence the way you researched and approached these topics?
Before we identify ourselves as law students, we must acknowledge that we are women navigating within a patriarchal society. This society often perpetuates patriarchy under the guise of cultural and religious beliefs. Fortunately, we are discerning enough to recognise that these stereotypes need not be seen as divinely ordained truths. Both men and women, along with all of creation, are made by God. If all beings are created by a singular divine force, it raises important questions about how laws can exist that discriminate against neither gender. Our law background made us focus on various religious laws to understand what is true and what is a myth.
3. In your preface, you mention that this book is not just about women but about fairness and humanity. Can you share more about how you balance strong feminist views with inclusivity?
Feminist views are not something that demands a special treatment, rather it touch upon the aspects which should be there but are not there in a modern society also, like housewives sacrificing their social life, working women failing to care for their health, women being considered as unworthy members at home by being said- tum krti hi kya ho din bhar?, so all this is something which shapes the health of children as well and that ultimately hampers their social and mental development, all this makes this feminist issue a matter of inclusivity because the world is interconnected and so such issues are.
4. Writing as a trio is unique. How did you divide the work among yourselves, and what strengths did each of you bring to the table?
There was no rigid delegation of the work, it was the collective effort put in every segment of the book, which was reviewed by three of us before finalising. Sometimes we divided some chapters amongst us, but at the end the final edits and revisions were our collective parts. The graphics of this book are designed by Aiman to give this book a more relatable, tough look.
5. Which chapter was the most emotionally difficult for you to write, and why?
When discussing the most challenging chapter, it is essential to highlight that it is, in fact, the first chapter. This chapter serves to engage the audience and encourages them to explore the subsequent six chapters. In this section, we address various religious aspects, which present a considerable challenge due to the sensitivity of the subject matter. It was crucial to ensure that any references drawn from religious texts are accurate and authentic. Conversely, if we consider the chapter that presents the most emotional difficulty, it is titled “A Woman in a Family.” This chapter delves into the struggles faced by women within familial structures, highlighting the sacrifices they make for their families, often without recognition or appreciation for their efforts.
6. You highlight the misinterpretation of religious texts in supporting patriarchal norms.
Were you ever hesitant or concerned about how readers might respond to this sensitive topic?
We approached the issue with concern rather than hesitation, recognising that individuals with a patriarchal mindset have often shaped cultural and religious narratives to suit their preferences.
Presenting a more accurate depiction of the truth posed a significant challenge for us. Our objective was to convey these truths in a manner that encourages adherence to the genuine commandments of God rather than human-made laws presented as god made laws..
7. The book speaks to a wide audience—students, homemakers, professionals, and even men. Who is your ideal reader, and what do you hope they take away from the book?
Our target audience consists of individuals who encounter patriarchy, as well as those who actively perpetuate it. Individuals who confront patriarchy are likely to discern the distinctions between right and wrong, recognising that what they have been taught regarding women, in the context of culture or religion, may not be accurate. Conversely, those who practice patriarchy may gain insights from this text, prompting a shift in their perspective. We aspire for these readers to reevaluate their views of women, moving away from their perception of them as weak and helpless beings and instead beginning to treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.
8. If you could change one deeply ingrained patriarchal mindset in society today, what would it be and why?
Recognising the women, valuing her sacrifices, her dreams, her passions, her pains, her goals, as they are often neglected under patriarchy because we conceive women as the one who is subordinate to males in decision making aspects or in the game of wisdom that is again a product of patriarchal mindset and upbringing.
9. As young authors tackling such a heavy subject, did you face any criticism or pushback during the writing or publishing process? How did you handle it?
Yes, we did. Some of our fellows hit back at us, saying that it is a boring theme that has already gained enough momentum or something that is overhyped. But we always stayed committed to addressing all the issues, especially by not neglecting the male perspective.
Though we didn’t open up to many people about our book project, as we wanted to keep this book launch as a way of launching our trio as well
10. What’s next for each of you—another book, activism, legal work? And how do you see your voice growing in the feminist and social justice space in the coming years?
We have just started, and yes, no definite next goal for now, but yes, we are together in this long-term goal of amplifying the voice of emerging and existing issues that are poorly recognised or are cooked up with.
Book Title : Modern Patriarchy In A Modern World
Publisher : Evincepub Publishing
