In a compelling personal essay on SheThePeople, scientist and mother Dr. Nisha M Kumar reflects on the subtle yet persistent gender bias embedded within Indian cultural rituals. Following the birth of her daughter, she noticed the absence of celebratory traditions such as the Chhochak, a ritual typically held after the birth of a male child. This omission prompted her to confront the deep-rooted gender disparities that continue to shape family practices in India.

Dr. Kumar highlights how rituals like Godh Bharai (baby shower), Annaprashan (first solid food), and Mundan (first haircut) are enthusiastically observed for boys, while girls often receive a subdued or symbolic version of the same. Despite her progressive upbringing and scientific education, these experiences revealed to her how cultural conditioning silently reinforces gender hierarchies—even in modern households.

Drawing on sociologist Pierre Bourdieu’s concept of “habitus,” Dr. Kumar argues that repeated cultural practices reinforce inequality by normalizing discrimination. She emphasizes the importance of questioning these traditions and reshaping them to reflect equity and inclusion. Her essay serves as both a critique and a call to action—urging families and society to reimagine rituals that affirm the value and dignity of all children, regardless of gender.