Addressing the congregation, Chief Guest, Shri Akhil Kumar Mishra, Additional Director General, PIB & CBC, highlighted the transformative power of conversation and communication in driving empowerment. He urged young minds to embrace curiosity, seek answers fearlessly, and engage in meaningful discussions with family, friends, and elders. Encouraging women to challenge stereotypes, he emphasized the importance of questioning societal norms. Advocating for collective well-being, he thoughtfully remarked, “My happiness may not always be my family’s happiness, but my family’s happiness is my happiness.” He inspired women to dream big, persevere, and turn their aspirations into reality through unwavering determination.
Dr. Luna Samanta, Chairman of the PG Council at Ravenshaw University, delivered a powerful message on gender clarity, emphasizing that competition between genders is unnecessary. She highlighted that while biological differences exist, what truly matters is understanding our roles, recognizing our potential, and striving for excellence in our respective fields. She stressed the importance of mutual respect and dignity, urging both men and women to coexist harmoniously by fulfilling their responsibilities.
Dr. Girish Chandra Dash, Director, CBC and Regional Officer, Central Bureau of Film Certification, eloquently stated that “God could not be everywhere, and that is why He created women.” Highlighting the immense contributions of women to literature, he noted that over 70% of literary works globally revolve around women, signifying their pivotal role in shaping history and culture. Citing examples from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, he emphasized that women have endured struggles yet emerged as central figures in these epics. He called for true empowerment, ensuring women lead lives of dignity, making every day a celebration of womanhood.
Dr. Moushumi Pattnaik, Assistant Professor & Head of the Department of Political Science, Shailabala College, Cuttack, reflected on gender disparity by drawing inspiration from the 2021 James Bond film No Time to Die. Quoting its powerful message, she stated, “The function of life is not merely to exist but to live with honor, dignity, and respect.” She pointed out that discrimination persists, hindering the progress of women in society, and called for collective action to ensure equal rights and opportunities.
The session commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Netajee Abhinandan, Faculty, Department of Political Science, Ravenshaw University, who underscored the alarming rise in atrocities against women, including violence and molestation, and emphasized the urgent need for measures to curb gender-based violence. He highlighted the continued struggle of women to achieve equal opportunities in the 21st century.
The event was coordinated by Shri Sarthak Abhyudaya, Faculty of the Department of Journalism & Mass Communication, and Shri M.P. Jena, Assistant Director, CBC Bhubaneswar. The event saw enthusiastic participation from faculty members, students, and officials from the Ministry of I&B, making it a remarkable platform for discourse on gender equality and empowerment.
This brainstorming session served as a powerful reminder of the need to challenge gender stereotypes, empower women, and create a society where every individual thrives with dignity, respect, and equality. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, the call for action resonates louder than ever – to foster inclusivity, break barriers, and champion the cause of gender justice.
