READERS OF NON-FICTION often get their share of disbelief in biographies, many of them so much larger-than-life, they surpass fiction. In a revealing new biography, Mr and Mrs Jinnah, veteran journalist Sheela Reddy unravels the story of a brilliant couple, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Ruttie Petit, who defied convention to reach the heights of political and […]
Author: Prabha Chandran
Prabha Chandran was an editor with some of India leading newspapers and has worked with the World Bank as a senior communications advisor.
Jasprit Bumrah becomes India’s all-time leading wicket-taker
Jasprit Bumrah becomes India’s all-time leading wicket-taker. India’s legendary pacer Jasprit Bumrah made history on Wednesday by breaking Kapil Dev’s long-standing record for the most wickets by an Indian bowler in Australia during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Bumrah reached the historic milestone on Day 5 of the Gabba Test, claiming the wicket of Usman Khawaja […]
A haven of Hope: Education for the marginalized in Lahore’s Heera Mandi
In the heart of Lahore’s historic Heera Mandi—a neighbourhood once celebrated for its rich tradition of art and culture—lies a beacon of hope. Amid its narrow lanes filled with the harsh realities of the red-light district, an extraordinary educational initiative exists. Run by the Institute of Rural Management (IRM), the small, informal school in Heera […]
Gender-based violence in Pakistan: Legal reforms and the path towards justice
Ayesha, 32, a mother of three, wakes up to the same pattern every morning in the sleepy streets of a small Punjabi village: the sound of her kids laughing, the aroma of morning chai, and the eerie anticipation of the day ahead. The secret that Ayesha has been carrying about for years is all too […]
Rural women and exploitation as cheap labor: A story of struggles and strength in Faisalabad
In many villages, particularly in developing nations, the image of women working in fields or industries is commonplace. These women, many of whom come from disadvantaged areas, confront structural challenges such as a lack of education, healthcare, and economic prospects. This lack of access frequently forces people into low-wage, precarious, and physically demanding professions. What […]
Education: A key to breaking gender stereotypes
In a classroom in rural Pakistan, a young girl raises her hand to answer a math question. She dreams of becoming a scientist, but society has other plans for her. “Girls belong in the kitchen,” she’s often told. Stories like hers are all too common, not just in Pakistan but worldwide. Gender norms—society’s unspoken rules […]
Gender roles and their impact on the family balance in dual earner households in Pakistan
Gender roles refer to the societal expectations of how individuals should behave according to their gender; men are often to be primary breadwinners, whereas women are mostly used to manage the household work. In dual-earner families, the gender roles are affecting the lives of spouses and creating the imbalance, so the women often end up […]
The Impact of gender stereotypes on career choices and opportunities
Gender stereotypes play a vital role in shaping career choices and opportunities in Pakistan. Traditional societal norms have created these stereotypes, deeply influencing individuals’ aspirations and professional pathways. Boys and girls are socialised early to fit into these defined roles, which confines them to limited educational and career opportunities. Boys are mostly encouraged to pursue […]