Campaigning for Widow Rights: A Battle Against Discriminatory Customs

Social activist Pramod Zinjade urges organizers of 'sarvajanik Ganpati' to allow widows to perform rituals to combat discriminatory customs. His campaign, aimed at abolishing anti-widow practices by 2035, has gained substantial support across Maharashtra. Activists like Rajmala Patil stress the need for societal and familial change.

Social activist Pramod Zinjade is leading a campaign to allow widows to participate in rituals such as 'aarti' during 'sarvajanik Ganpati' celebrations. His goal is to eradicate discriminatory customs against widows by 2035, pointing out that Maharashtra's progressive ideology can play a key role.

Last year, 2,000 mandals in major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur responded positively by inviting widows to perform rituals. Zinjade emphasized that such initiatives boost widows' confidence and help them feel valued in society, regardless of government legislation.

Fellow activist Rajmala Patil highlighted the pervasive nature of discrimination against widows, urging changes within homes and communities. She lamented that despite higher education, many still lack the courage to challenge wrongful societal norms.

(With inputs from agencies.)