The creator of the universe painted a vast canvas of existence with unmatched beauty, love and compassion.
For a moment imagine if this world had been created without beauty, love and compassion. What would
happen? In that case life would be dull, meaningless and ugly and humans would soon grew weary of it. Yet,
the creator decided to manifest this beauty, love, compassion in the most beautiful and graceful form:
Women. She is the embodiment of resilience, courage, love, beauty as well as creativity. A beautiful poetic line
says
“Wajood-e-Zan sy hy tasveer-e- kainat main rang.”
(The existence of women fills the picture of universe with color).
International Women’s Day
Every year on 8 th March (International Women’s Day) the world pauses in order to honor to women to
celebrate their remarkable achievements and their contribution to society.
They have proven their strength and ability in every aspect of life. Whether it’s about managing homes, upbringing of children, leading organizations, serving in offices, educating future generations, serving patients or defending their country in armed forces Etc. their commitment, dedications and struggle deserve admiration.
Their services are not confined to single role but they shape families, communities, nations hence, proving themselves stronger through and through.
The history of Women’s Day is rooted back in the struggles of women for equality and justice. In the early 20th century, women workers across various countries raised their voices for unfair wages, exploitation, poor working conditions and denial of women voting rights.
Gradually these movements transformed into global campaigns gender equality, dignity and social justice. Today International Women’s Day stands as both a celebration of their progress and as a reminder of the battles that women fought to secure their place and rights in society.
The Harsh Reality
Unfortunately, despite of their achievements, the reality remains painful that many of the women especially in third world countries are still deprived of fundamental rights.
In numerous societies they are objectified as symbols of beauty and pleasure with no human emotions, intellect and aspirations.
They are the victims of intimate partner violence, abduction, honor killing, molestation, forced marriages, forced religion conversion, trafficking.
According to Eurostat, a statistical office of European Union, in 2024 out of 9678, nearly 2/3 (63%)
registered victims of human trafficking were women and girls in 2024.
According to WHO report, in late 2025-early 2026, 316 million women (15+) were subjected to physical and sexual violence by their intimate partners.
Their lives have been in control of patriarchy and have been confined to homes and house hold activities living
to monotonous lives.
The Perspective of Simone De Beauvoir
The French Philosopher and influential feminist thinker Simon De Beauvoir in her influential book “The Second
Sex” became a foundational book of modern feminism that is known as second wave of feminism.
In her book “The Second Sex”, she addressed issues regarding gender, roles, social inequality and injustice. She questioned
“What does it mean to be a woman?”
and concluded
“One is not born, but rather society makes her, a woman”.
Women in reality are not week, incapable, delicate but the society portrayed her as weak, delicate
that shows how society shapes and restricts women roles instead of allowing them to decide their own fate
and shape their own identities.
In her book, Simon De Beauvoir further discussed biological arguments to
define women. She explained that though the women have biological difference from men, biology alone does
not determine their fate or social role. Society always uses biology as a tool to justify limited roles and
opportunities for women. In reality women are shaped by cultural norms, societal expectations rather than by
their physical nature.
Stories of Courage
But despite of all challenges we have women who proved the society that they are capable of breaking the
barriers.
Mukhtar Mai – From Victim to Activist
One among them is Mukhtar Mai- from victim to activist. She came from a small rural area Meerwala.
In 2002, she faced a terrific act of violence. A local tribal council ordered “Gang Rape” against her. It was a revenge of a case against her brother.
Instead of accepting the injustice, violence and remaining silent, she
courageously took her case to court and demanded justice for herself. Mukhtar Mai’s decision to speak out in
a conservative and stereotyped society was itself an act of bravery.
Rather than withdrawing life, she transformed her pain into strength by establishing schools and organizations with an intention to promote girls education in her village.
Her courage, resilience and commitment turned her from ordinary rural women to international symbol of resilience and fight for women rights.
Muniba Mazari – Strength Beyond Limits
Another symbol of courage is Muniba Mazari, after surviving a severe accident that left her wheel-chair bound,
she refused to accept it.
She rebuilt her life as an artist, a motivational speaker, an advocate of women and advocate from women and people with disabilities, inspiring women across the globe.
A Vision for Civilization
Abd –ul-Ghaffar Khan (Bacha khan), A Pashtun Independence Activist said:
“If you want to judge the civilization of a nation, look at the condition of the women”.
He believed that the educated and empowered women contribute to a more civilized and stronger nation.
A Call to Action
Therefore, women’s Day must serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility to create a safer
environment for women.
It’s their day also a day to pledge that we all will create a world where women are valued, respected and empowered to pursue their dreams rather than imprisoned in invisible chains of patriarchy.
When these are given equal opportunities to grow and succeed, they do not only transform their
lives but uplift entire communities and nations.
True progress can only be achieved when women are completely free to dream, lead and shine with full potential.
Let us pledge to remain the picture painted by creator on canvas as it is, colorful, don’t try to erase it.
Hillary Clinton, American politician and diplomat says:
“Women are largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world”.
Conclusion
A salute to all the women for their struggles, dedication and resilience for breaking the barriers and the chains and shaping their true identity who they really are.
Mahnoor Fatima.