The New Woman

Redefining single womanhood in India.

- Shivani Ujjainwal

Shreya Singh, a 34-year-old professor at Delhi University's South Campus, exemplifies the changing face of single womanhood in India. She firmly believes in the adage, "The older you get, the more self-oriented you become." Shreya grew up dreaming of marriage, embracing the fairy tale notion that it would bring acceptance and dispel her inner darkness. However, after enduring two abusive relationshipsboth physically and emotionally-she chose to embrace life as a single woman. This decision, far from instilling fear, has made her stronger than ever.

Growing up, Shreya observed how patriarchal and misogynistic norms marginalized women who lived without a man. A woman's independent decisions were often rejected by both family and society. Now, Shreya finds solace in books, frequently visiting libraries where she discovers peace amidst the chaos of life. While living as a single woman is challenging, she dares to defy societal pressures, rejecting ideas like remarriage or casual relationships that lack commitment. For her, peace lies in solitude. The lives of unmarried women, she notes, vary widely and are influenced by cultural, social, and personal factors.

In India's largely patriarchal society, women have traditionally been raised to become good wives and mothers, with marriage often considered their ultimate life goal. For many, marriage has symbolised stability and social validation. This perspective stems from norms that prioritise marital status over individual identity. However, times are changing. Increasingly, women are realising that waiting for "Mr. Right" is neither necessary nor fulfilling, and they are choosing solitary lives on their own terms.