- Written by Danitza Faith Lyngdoh, Fifth Semester, Media Technologies, 2023
In a world where challenges arise like mountains and hardship lurks around every corner, there are stories that shine like beacons of resilience, illuminating the path of empowerment and change. Among these stories are the inspiring journeys of the Jana and Hajong families, where the spirit of women radiates brightly, proving that strength knows no bounds and that the power to uplift others can reshape destiny.
The Jana family, led by Theirisia Jana, stands as a testament to unwavering determination. In the face of financial turmoil following the unexpected passing of her husband, she stepped into the role of breadwinner with a heart full of courage. Armed with a fierce dedication to her family's well-being, she wash clothes for a living and this started way back in 1984.
She would go and do the laundry for families at Riatsamthiah, Polo and Nongmynsong. The daughters have expressed their concerns about their aging mother doing laundry. However, till date, she continues doing what she started. Theirisia showcased an unmatched resilience that not only sustained her family but also kindled a fire of determination in her children.
Her daughters, Shidalyne Jana and Banari Jana, took her strength as an example and followed her footsteps and washed clothes along with her. They would wake up early, bundle their clothes in a ‘khoh’ or a closed weave basket and head to the laundry area well in time to secure their spot lest it gets crowded.
A typical day of washing for the sisters last for hours. They would help each other in folding the washed clothes and neatly pack them back in the ‘khoh’ so that they could put them to dry when they get home. Now, carrying the wet clothes back home is not an easy task- they would have to ascend steep slopes and squeeze through narrow shortcuts to reach their destination.
Both women learned from their mother's unwavering resolve, understanding that setbacks were mere stepping stones towards success. Meanwhile, her other two daughters Therina Jana and Sarbina Jana ventured into other professions- one running a beauty parlor and another a small shop in their neighborhood.
Parallel to the Jana family, the Hajong family thrived under the leadership of Monica Hajong, a mother who transformed her struggles into stepping stones. She first started earning for her family by selling fast food items on the roadside and then later on she opened a tea stall in the year 2013. Their prep work for the next day would start in the evening at around 7:00 pm. They are early risers and they wake up at 5:00 am. At precisely 6:00 am the shutters are open for business with the ladies busy cooking scrumptious meals for the customers.
By afternoon, the ladies are all geared up to prep for fast food items like steamed momos, stuffed potatoes, vegetable pakoras and other items which are a big hit in the evening.
The way they balance the household chores and their business is quite commendable. The essence of this family's story was perhaps most vividly seen in the relationship between Monica and her daughters how they work together as a team with their mother day and night to ensure that their business runs smoothly. They imbibed values of respect, empathy, and perseverance.
The story of the Jana and Hajong families speak to the broader narrative of women's empowerment. They demonstrate that women, when faced with adversity, don't crumble, they conquer. Their ability to stand in the face of change, to embrace challenges, and to nurture both their careers and families illustrates the remarkable strength of the female spirit.
In a world where stories often focus on struggles, these narratives stand as ray of hope, shining light on the transformative power of resilience. They teach us that within every woman lies a wellspring of strength waiting to be harnessed. Through their stories, the Hajong and Jana families shows us to recognize the potential for greatness that lie within every woman, inspiring us to uplift those around us. In a symphony of courage, dedication, and unwavering love, these families remind us that the story of women's empowerment is one that needs to be told, shared, and celebrated. Through their resolute determination and unbreakable spirit, they light the way for generations to come, lighting a flame of empowerment that can never be extinguished.
Comments