For decades together, women had literally no platform either to share their thoughts or exhibit their latent skills. At the most, they met over lunch or a cup of coffee, at home often flanked by in-laws and parents, to talk about issues close to their hearts. For these opportunity-starved women of Madurai, a special event this week, “Ladies Day Out” brought them the opportunity to socialise, share ideas, demonstrate their talent and, yes even, dress up.
Even the continuous downpour on Saturday did not dampen the spirits of 2,500 women who vied with one another to participate in a series of events and competitions. Women came trickling in through the day dressed in their fashionable outfits, flaunting their clutches and handbags. In fact, every woman drew envious glares from the other for their dazzling attires. After all, grass is always greener on the other side.
“It was amazing the way women, strangers till hitherto, became friends,” observed Sheela Jesuraja, who sat through the day's programme. "Just watching the activities is mesmerising. I envy all those who got this wonderful opportunity to stage their skills ," she says.
"The programme guarantees an evolution of team dynamics. Who does not want a day to relax from daily chores and hangout with friends for fun?," wondered L. Vidya, one of the participants.
But for Meenakshi Ramachandran age was no bar. She enthusiastically participated in every competition including fashion show. Though it was far from the typical cat walk, she earned the applause of all . In fact, she went back home with bagful of prizes.
Elizabeth Williams, winner of ‘Sakala kala Rani' title walked away with a couple of grinders and cookers for her enthusiastic participation in many events.
City college students entertained audience with fast-moving dance performances. Women irrespective of their age participated in events like ‘As You Like It', dance, spot games, rangoli, vegetable carving, mehendi and much more. At the fag end of the day, the event turned little chaotic as people bumped into each other on stage eager to show-off their talentsRJs Selvagita and Sikkander played a perfect host and made every participant feel at home.
Surprisingly, three persons enjoyed a cake cutting ceremony and celebrated their birthdays on stage. Ladies Day organised by Hello FM 106.4 on The American College premises was a fabulous getaway for women from their daily chores besides a venue to rediscover and reconnect themselves with their ilk.
To all the fun was also added an element of solemnity when the District Collector C Kamaraj announced on-the-spot pension for Deepalakshmi after receiving a petition from her. It was all the women who finally left the venue asking why should boys always have all the fun. So true!
