Inspired by movies, songs

Like every year, this time too the Oscar awards 2016 came with its share of praises, criticism and snide comments. I enjoyed the show immensely and was heartened to see Brie Larson taking home the Oscar for her portrayal of Joy Newsome, in the film Room.

I was disturbed and inspired at the same time by the story of a woman who tries to stay calm and balanced for the sake of her 5 year old son as she is held captive for seven years by a man who rapes her repeatedly and keeps them locked in a dreary little room. Joy’s struggle to keep Jack, her son, happy and finally planning his escape shows how strong a woman can be, no matter what the circumstances. Her struggle to overcome the past, once she’s rescued, while battling depression and her son’s confusion, is another soul-stirring moment.

Coming back to the awards night, I am not a huge fan of Lady Gaga, but that has changed forever. Her song ‘Til it happens to you’ from the film The Hunting Ground left me speechless. It was a song about surviving sexual abuse. As she belted out the number she was joined by several rape survivors who had inspiring messages like; It happened to me, Not your fault and Unbreakable, written on their arms.

Rape and sexual abuse stories are a part of our daily lives. We see at least one story almost everyday in the news. The victims are extraordinary women who survive not only the physical abuse but also the trauma that haunts them not to mention the stigma that follows them at times.

On Women’s Day I would like to remember those numerous girls and women for their grit and courage to emerge victorious out of their harrowing circumstances to make a mark in this world and inspire us through their sheer will power.

(The writer is a Delhi-based editorial consultant)