By: Asif Shakeela Bhat
Every individual strives to earn respect and appreciation, dedicating their lives to achieving personal goals. A student invests crucial years in pursuing dreams, while a father tirelessly provides for and nurtures his family. Similarly, all individuals work according to their capacities to bring satisfaction to themselves and those connected to them. Although everyone receives some form of appreciation, there is a person who fulfills numerous responsibilities—preparing meals, maintaining cleanliness, caring for children and elders—yet often receives minimal or no acknowledgment: the housewife.
The day of a housewife begins with organizing the family’s necessities and concludes with tidying up after them. While it is acknowledged that these tasks are primarily the responsibility of a housewife, the appreciation she receives is disproportionately scarce. Despite performing a myriad of duties, she is seldom recognized as the superhero that she is. She not only executes these tasks efficiently but also endures criticism and, at times, mistreatment from family members. Often lacking formal education, she may face guidance or torment from her husband or children, treating her as if she belongs to a marginalized section of society. Regrettably, she is deemed unfit to engage with esteemed guests and may not even have a voice of her own, deferring to the person accompanying her.
In addition to managing the essential needs of children, from preparing lunches to washing lunchboxes and adjusting uniforms, a housewife is often excluded from participating in significant events like school meetings. Her illiteracy is unfairly perceived as a source of shame when meeting her children’s friends. Despite keeping her husband organized, remembering important dates, and managing daily necessities, her efforts are seldom acknowledged. Her work is undervalued, as if she possesses a magical solution to execute these activities effortlessly.
Her responsibilities demand energy, sometimes compromising her health, and she may even forget to prioritize her own well-being. Although she could refuse to carry out these tasks, she willingly chooses to prioritize the larger interests of her family. It’s not that she is incapable of excelling in a professional career; the truth is that a woman can outperform a man professionally while excelling personally.
Unlike an employee who enjoys at least one holiday per week, a housewife’s routine deserves appreciation from other family members at least once a month. She merits a trophy—a symbol of encouragement, appreciation, and love. In conclusion, success in the workplace, academic achievements, and the health of elders are not solely attributed to individual competence. An invisible force, the tireless work of the housewife or homemaker, plays a crucial role. Therefore, it is imperative to change perceptions and address her as a house manager or home-maker instead of merely a housewife.
The writer is Pursuing Masters in History from University of Kashmir.
