Dr. Abraham Mathai, Founder of the Harmony Foundation
The Harmony Foundation marked International Women's Day on the eve of this occasion with inspiring celebrations held at St. Andrew's College and also at the Kalina campus of the University of Mumbai. The event brought together students, faculty, and distinguished guests to reflect on women's empowerment and the urgent need to challenge gender inequalities.
The celebration was graced by the 3 following eminent advocates and champions of gender equality.
IPS Vinita Sahu, a trailblazer in law enforcement known for her exemplary leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice and public service.
Dr. Shweli Kumar from TISS, professor and academician whose work focuses on gender, intersectional violence and discrimination, feminist community mobilisation, and social policy.
Dr. Ganesh Rakh , a gynecologist from Pune and President of the Medicare Hospital Foundation, known for his inspiring and monumental initiative of delivering baby girls free of charge to combat female foeticide and promote dignity for the girl child.
Each guest stood as a prime and motivational example of conviction and dedication, embodying the spirit of empowerment that International Women's Day represents.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Abraham Mathai, Founder of the Harmony Foundation, highlighted both the progress and the persistent challenges faced by women in India. He recalled reading about the disturbing practice of naming girls Anchahi ("unwanted") or Nakushi ("undesired") in certain villages, underscoring the deep-rooted biases that deny girls their dignity. In response, the Harmony Foundation created Manchahi, a short film meaning "wanted" or "chosen," highlighting the challenges faced by women and affirming that every girl deserves respect, equal value, and a life of dignity.
IPS Vinita Sahu
Dr. Mathai also emphasized that Women's Day cannot be confined to a single day and that it is a continuous journey shaped by the choices we make, the voices we amplify, and the injustices we refuse to ignore.
The celebrations at both institutions served as a call to action for students and society at large: to question outdated beliefs, to speak up against injustice, and to commit to building a fair and compassionate future. The Harmony Foundation continues to support equality in society and believes that by carrying forward even a fraction of the dedication exemplified by those working for women's empowerment, lasting change becomes possible-creating a society where every girl is truly Manchahi: wanted, valued, and celebrated.
