Self-defence and Its Importance for Women in India
In an endeavour to break gender stereotypes and to ensure that women find their inner confidence, Grand Master Akshar at Akshar Yoga, Bangalore is organising a Self-Defence Training Camp for Women on International Women’s Day, the 8th of March 2017 from 7 AM ~ 9 AM at Cubbon Park, to enable them to proactively empower themselves with necessary safety measures to overcome tricky situations. To that end, I was approached in the capacity of a Digital Influencer to share my views on Self-defence and its importance for Women in India.
1. How important is it to be self equipped in the city?
Tanya Dhar: India’s standoff with grave gender violence has significantly increased in the past few years. And, we are only made aware of the few who decide to stand up and raise their voices against this vehemence. This is why self-defence for women is indispensable. It really is all about the confidence with which you can face your attacker and disarm and immobilise them. Your attacker may come unnoticed, from just any corner of the street. Or your attacker maybe someone you knew, someone you trusted. You may even be in a situation where you end up facing a group or a person with a weapon. The attack can be fatal and your survival may depend on your ability to defend yourself. Learning self-defence from a professional will empower you with the ability to use your hands and feet with a certain swiftness when your life depends on it, and emerge unscathed from an undesirable situation.
2. Share your opinions on precautionary measures for women.
Tanya Dhar:
- Keep a check when walking on the road to avoid groping from behind.
- Shout out ‘STOP’ in a loud and aggressive voice when you need to.
- Stay fit enough to run fast.
- Note down the number of the cab when travelling alone.
- Enroll for self-defence classes and learn several techniques to physically fight your attacker.
Opt for training in basic karate, kickboxing, or traditional stick fighting {using lathi}.
3. Share your views on the initiative taken by Grand Master Akshar to empower women for a powerful nation.
Tanya Dhar: In times like this, this is a commendable initiative. Self-defence empowers you and gives you the speed and wit you need to escape from traumatic situations when you face an attacker. When you train your body and mind, you will be more equipped to apply these skills to get out of such undesirable situations.
4. One message that you would want to convey to the women in your city.
Tanya Dhar: Self-defence is not just a tool for protecting yourself. It girds you with self-confidence that can help you achieve a lot more, knowing that you can defend yourself whenever needed. This surety will make you braver and smarter. Be Aware ~ Act Smart ~ Be Safe.
Tanya Dhar, Health & Lifestyle Blogger at Urban Diaries on Self Defence for Women
What are your views on the importance of self-defence training? Please share in the comments section below.