Bleed and Blood: An Indian Anathema

Abstract

The current study, titled “Bleed and Blood—An Indian Anathema,” gives an Indian perspective on the stigma faced by women in the feminist geography of India. It discusses menstrual activism, menstruation, and periods’ religious and cultural significance. The history of why and when menstruation became a stigma and why it is shunned in India is also discussed. It also focuses on the theory of shame and isolation and menstrual equity from a menstruation point of view. The research amalgamates within its fold a survey covering educated professionals, both women and men of their changed perspectives. The survey for men indicates that though they do not think of menstruation as a taboo but as a mere biological process, they still believe in some practices. The survey conducted for women includes 21 questions based on the three principles of stigma proposed by Erving Goffman, namely the interpersonal, sociocultural, and individual stigma. The survey gives a direction that though the women are coming out of their trauma and now talk more freely about menstruation, stereotypes and taboos related to menstruation are prevalent. It is observed that menstrual equity is gradually emerging among Indian women. The survey responses emphasize the need for social media to be more proactive in helping women fight against taboos and trauma.