Methodology: Questionnaire and Focus groups
Language: Hindi
Catalysts: Shehnaz Malik
Youth Fellows: Shehnaz Malik Salma Khan Farhin Khan Shabana Shaikh Shamshad Malik Chhaya Jadhao Sanobar Siddique Zarina Shaikh Sanjida Malik Coordinator: Pallavi Shinde
About the Subject: This group hailed from a Muslim Ghetto in Malvani, a suburb of Mumbai. They each faced the problem of alcoholism – someone in their own household who was afflicted by alcohol addiction which affected the person as well as the entire family in physical, emotional, social and financial terms. Therefore they were keen to study this subject.
Challenges & Learnings: This was the very first exposure of these girls to research. It was a difficult experience considering the personal nature of the subject. They faced many resistances from women who would be unwilling to say negative things about their husbands, sons or parents. Some women would accuse them of wrong doings. Most important thing they learnt was to deconstruct their own experiences and debate about it openly and candidly. The experience also taught them some invaluable skills of communication, tolerance and diligence. They also found out that their house was not the only one with an addict but most of the community women faced the same issue.
Conclusion: They found out that no matter how drunk the man may be, he never beats up other man’s wife but only his own because he knows that he can get away with it. He is aware of her vulnerable position and her total physical dependence upon him due to the shelter he provides. That woman has to tolerate all the injustices and continue to look after the family because she has no other support system.
End Product: These women created very innovative and attractive posters and key chains depicting their findings.
