Women groups foster empowerment, drive economic progress, and challenge societal stereotypes, proving that together, women can achieve anything

Humans are inherently social beings, and women, in particular, thrive on social connections. This insight struck me during a recent celebration of Hariyali Teej, a Hindu festival dedicated to women. On this day, women don traditional attire, enjoy special foods, and revel in music, reflecting the profound significance of women’s gatherings in our cultural history.

Hariyali Teej exemplifies the value our ancestors placed on women’s circles. These gatherings not only provide joy but also reinforce the unique strength women possess. This power is deeply rooted in their ability to manage and share energy, which flourishes through communal interactions. Women need to connect with their feminine essence and the best way to nurture this strength is by bonding with other women. Such connections are crucial for self-discovery and empowerment.

The concept of Shine Theory, coined by journalist Ann Friedman and businesswoman Aminatou Sow, encapsulates this idea: exceptional women support each other to shine even brighter. Historically, women have passed wisdom and experience through communal practices, whether through household chores or cultural rituals. For example, traditional activities like grinding spices together in Indian families or crafting quilts in Alice Walker’s *The Color Purple* symbolize unity and shared strength.

Everyday interactions among women not only ease the burden of tasks but also preserve cultural traditions and create a space for emotional exchange. These interactions form a vessel of healing and transformation, extending beyond personal growth to effecting positive change in their communities.

In modern settings, such as neighborhood gatherings or workplace environments, the same principles apply. Despite the often harsh competitive dynamics driven by stereotypes, supportive women’s circles offer a vital source of relief and rejuvenation. Unfortunately, societal narratives and media perpetuate the myth that women are inherently competitive and unsupportive of one another. This stereotype undermines the historical practices of women uplifting each other and fosters unhealthy rivalry.

Recent initiatives aim to counteract these negative dynamics by promoting women’s economic empowerment. The Union Budget for 2024-25 proposes establishing working women hostels and supporting women-led self-help groups (SHGs). These measures are designed to enhance financial stability and provide economic opportunities for women, particularly in rural areas. The goal is to transform women into “Lakhpati Didis,” or those with an annual income exceeding INR 1,00,000, while also encouraging sustainable livelihoods and improved living standards.

The emphasis on SHGs highlights the importance of collective unity and mutual support among women. These groups not only provide economic benefits but also foster a strong network of women who support each other’s growth and success. By encouraging more women to engage in such supportive environments, we can pave the way for greater economic prosperity and gender equality.

Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta Platforms, emphasizes the power of women supporting women in her book, *Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead*. She dispels the myth that women don’t support each other, arguing that collaboration among women is key to achieving remarkable success. Successful women often have the backing of other women who help them reach their goals.

To overcome systemic discrimination and internalized biases, women must challenge the societal pressures that pit them against each other. By rejecting stereotypes and fostering genuine support, women can create spaces where they feel safe to express themselves, show vulnerability, and receive the support they need.

Ultimately, female friendships and communal support not only inspire personal and spiritual growth but also enhance collective strength and performance. Women’s circles provide a crucial platform for sharing energy, ideas, and support, enabling women to achieve their full potential and contribute positively to their communities.

(The author is a writer, social worker, culture enthusiast, and former UN employee; views are personal)