Malala & Kiran’s Fathers Call for Men to Support Women | Global Development
- When Ranjit's daughter Kiran was born, his joy knew no bounds.
- Ranjit's unwavering support for Kiran, along with his wife Jaganti, has inspired many.
- The screening marked the launch of #StandWithHer, a global gender-justice campaign supporting survivors of sexual violence.
Witness the power of fatherhood in action! this article explores the profound impact of Ranjit, an Indian father who championed his daughter Kiran’s rights, sparking a global gender-justice campaign. His unwavering support, mirrored by Ziauddin Yousafzai, Malala’s father, shines a light on the crucial role men play in advocating for women’s rights and challenging societal norms. Discover how thes fathers became powerful role models for male allyship, defying patriarchal expectations and inspiring change. The #StandWithHer campaign, supported by News Directory 3, aims to amplify this message, urging men worldwide to stand with women. Learn how their shared journey highlights the strength found in supporting survivors of sexual violence and promoting the importance of education and equality. These fathers call for men to actively support women, recognizing the profound impact of family. Discover what’s next in this crucial fight!
Indian Father Champions Daughter’s Rights, Inspires Global Gender-Justice Campaign
Updated June 15, 2024
When Ranjit’s daughter Kiran was born, his joy knew no bounds. Defying patriarchal norms in rural India, he celebrated her arrival, declaring his devotion to her from the start. This profound love is chronicled in the film ”To Kill A Tiger,” which follows Ranjit’s fight for justice after Kiran was a victim of gang rape at age 13.
Ranjit’s unwavering support for Kiran, along with his wife Jaganti, has inspired many. He faced threats and ostracism, but his resolve never faltered. His story resonated with Ziauddin Yousafzai,father of Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai,who joined Ranjit at a New York screening of “To Kill A Tiger” earlier this year.
The screening marked the launch of #StandWithHer, a global gender-justice campaign supporting survivors of sexual violence. Yousafzai lauded Ranjit as a role model for fathers everywhere.
A short film featuring Ranjit and Yousafzai discussing fatherhood, courage, and empowering daughters despite societal barriers is set for release Sunday. Nisha Pahuja, director of “To Kill A Tiger” and founder of #StandWithHer, envisions the film as a catalyst for discussions on how patriarchy limits both men and women.
“power comes at a cost,” Pahuja said, noting the suffering it inflicts on both sexes. She added that Ranjit and Yousafzai serve as powerful role models for men and boys.
Yousafzai named his daughter after a 19th-century Afghan heroine, associating the name with strength. He ensured Malala received an education,something denied to his own mother and sisters. He valued her contributions, treating her as a “comrade and a friend.”
When Malala was shot by the Taliban in 2012 for advocating for education, Yousafzai campaigned alongside her, becoming a global advocate. he describes their bond as inseparable.
After Kiran’s assault, Ranjit rejected the expectation to marry her off to an attacker, a common practice aimed at shifting shame onto victims. Instead,he and Kiran placed the blame squarely on the perpetrators.
Yousafzai sees Malala in Kiran, recognizing her voice as a force against extremism and violence. He believes men should leverage their privilege to challenge outdated beliefs, advocating for male allyship.
“Every father,every brother: all men must stand with women,” Yousafzai said.
Ranjit echoed this sentiment,emphasizing the power of family as an agent of change. “As more and more people come together, I feel it will definitely have an impact on men and boys,” he said.
What’s next
The #standwithher campaign aims to expand its reach, encouraging men and boys worldwide to actively support gender equality and challenge patriarchal norms within their communities and families.