Join our host Soumya as she chats with journalist, author, and researcher, Sameera Khan, and Nivedita Prakasam, a standup comic based out of Mumbai, as we unpack the multifaceted challenges women encounter in public spaces. From the pervasive risks women face for simply utilising public spaces to the conditional access contingent upon proving their purpose and conforming to societal norms of respectability, we explore the nuanced ways in which gender dynamics intersect with urban design and social structures. 

Our discussion extends to the digital realm, where women contend with rampant online harassment, censorship, and the normalisation of violence against them. We examine the impact of media representation on societal perceptions of women, highlighting the limited agency afforded to female characters and the urgent need for more authentic narratives that celebrate women's autonomy. 

We confront the pervasive gender inequalities that persist in Indian society, advocating for tangible steps towards creating safer and more inclusive environments for women everywhere. Tune in to discover how we can collectively work towards dismantling patriarchal structures and fostering a culture of respect, equality, and empowerment for all genders.

Niveditha Prakasam is a standup comedian based out of Mumbai. She was also a part of Ladies Up, an all women, no holds barred comedy Netflix Special in 2020. 

Sameera Khan is a Mumbai-based independent journalist, researcher and co-author of the book, Why Loiter: Women & Risk on Mumbai Streets (Penguin-Random House) which examines women’s access to public space. She is also a media trainer, guiding journalists on how to cover violence against women.

Know more about Breakthrough’s work at https://inbreakthrough.org/

Our Guests:

Niveditha Prakasam

Sameera Khan

Find them on social media

Instagram @InBreakthrough

Twitter @InBreakthrough

Facebook @InBreakthrough

Or email us if you have questions [email protected] / [email protected]

This is a Maed In India Production; check us out at www.maedinindia.in

Creative Director: Mae Mariyam Thomas

Project Manager: Shaun Fanthome

Head of Audio Production: Kartik Kulkarni

Producer: Meghna Gulati 

Sound Editing & Mixing: Ishaan Devasthali

Artwork: Alika Gupta