India Unites For The Unite Campaign: 16 Days Of Activism To Revitalize Commitments And Call For Accountability And Action From Decision-Makers
Grisu Media Arts and YOUx Talks Unite on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to Raise Awareness
New Delhi [India], November 26: On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (November 25, 2024), Grisu Media Arts and YOUx Talks have united to combat the pervasive issue of gender-based violence. This partnership raises awareness as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, spearheaded by UN Women under the UNiTE initiative. This year's theme, "Every 10 Minutes, a woman is killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence Against Women," highlights the urgent need to address violence against women globally.
Prominent leaders such as Ayush Gupta, co-founder of Anannt Oorja Safar, and Raza Ur Rehman, a corporate finance expert behind R&C Global Finance, are leading efforts to challenge societal norms that perpetuate violence. Empowerment coach and podcaster Mohsinaa Ahmad, alongside the acclaimed author and film writer Shree, are also significant contributors, using their platforms to amplify the voices of women affected by violence. Dr. Priya Bhalla, a spiritual master, and Saraswati Raman, a certified yoga teacher and transformational coach, promote healing and mindfulness as tools for empowerment.
Usha Mani, founder of ParenTeen Bond, is a pioneering force in education and communication, supporting women and children through her initiatives. Authors like Shubira Prasad, Swapna Sanchita, and Tanushi are using their literary skills to raise awareness and inspire change, crafting works that resonate with those advocating for women's rights. Sunil Sihaag, founder of Grisu Media Arts, emphasizes the role of media in amplifying these voices for change, ensuring that the UNiTE message reaches audiences across the globe. Through this united front, these leaders are committed to eradicating violence and fostering gender equality.
- Ayush Gupta ; Spiritual Leader Unite for a Safer, More Equitable World
Ayush Gupta stands in solidarity with the UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women, to raise awareness and take action against the alarming issue of gender-based violence. As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, He urges everyone to join hands in creating a society where women and girls feel safe, respected, and empowered.
He further says, “Eliminating violence begins with a collective effort to challenge societal norms, foster compassion, and promote equality. Spiritual practices like meditation and mindfulness can be powerful tools in cultivating a mindset of respect and healing. Together, let’s strive for a world where every individual, regardless of gender, can live free from fear and violence.”
Ayush Gupta is the co-founder of Anannt Oorja Safar along with Aarvika (Yogini ) and Ayush is One of the Best Reiki healer, celebrity tarot card reader, and numerologist. With over 20,000 tarot readings, 1000+ Reiki Cases Healed to his credit and a commitment to transformative healing, Ayush empowers individuals to connect deeply with themselves and the universe. Through Anannt Oorja, he has integrated meditation programs in C.I.S.F, Central Jail Indore and government/ Private schools of Dubai, India & Nepal, spreading the message of inner peace and wellness worldwide.
- Finance as a Catalyst for Social Change: Mr. Raza Ur Rehman Supports the UNiTE Campaign
Mr. Raza Ur Rehman, Co-Founder and Managing Director of R&C Global Finance, affirms his support for the 16 days UNiTE Campaign (25 Nov-10Dec), managed by UN Women. He underscores the importance of leveraging corporate influence to combat gender-based violence and empower women worldwide.
Quoting the campaign’s theme, “Every 10 Minutes, a woman is killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence Against Women,” Raza emphasizes the urgent need for collective action. He asserts that financial institutions must play a pivotal role in fostering equality by enabling opportunities and contributing to transformative initiatives.
Mr. Raza Ur Rehman is a renowned corporate finance leader and the driving force behind R&C Global Finance. With expertise in Real Estate Project Financing, Private Equity, Debt Syndication, and Distressed Asset Financing, he delivers innovative, sustainable financial solutions. His strategic vision has shaped the global financial landscape, championing long-term growth and social impact.
- Shree: Advocating for Action and Awareness in the UNiTE Campaign
Shree, an award-winning author and film-writer, underscores the significance of the UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women, in the fight against violence toward women and girls. She emphasizes the role of education and empowerment in transforming societal norms. "When women are educated, supported, and empowered, they break free from cycles of violence and injustice," she says. Furthermore, she stresses the need for legal protections and social awareness to create a safer world for all women and girls.
Shree is an award-winning author and film-writer. Professionally, she is an entrepreneur. She is trained in Indian classical dance and music. She is Quarter-Finals winner of ScreenCraft Hollywood Cinematic Story Contest 2017 for the novella “Silent Invaders” and selection for Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2023 for short film “Paani”.
Her latest book ‘The Crimson Thread’ has also received several international recognitions in 2024, amongst which International Impact Book Award, Regal Summit Book Award, Literary Global Book Award and Independent Author Award are the most prestigious ones.
- Swapna Sanchita: Advocating for Change in the UNiTE Campaign
Swapna Sanchita, an award-winning poet and children's author, speaks out on the importance of the UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women, in combating violence against women and girls. She affirms, "Every story of abuse, no matter how small it seems, contributes to the wider issue of violence against women. We must acknowledge all forms of harm—physical, emotional, and psychological—and stand together to end it." She quotes her poem in support of the UNAiTE Campaign
Not every girl is raped...
Some merely have the doctor's hand
Lingering over their barely formed breasts
While conducting a check-up for stomach-ache,
Before he quietly asks, "Does this hurt?"
Some merely have a family friend
Lacing pudgy fingers with theirs
While commenting on the baby-soft tenderness-
Stare at the spot where the hem of their skirt hits the thigh.
Not every girl is raped…
Some merely have a random paw
Palm the roundness of their behinds in a crowd-
In the cinema, at the stadium,
By the water fountain in the park, at school,
Anywhere, everywhere- where one shouldn't be and where all go.
Some of us raised a hue and cry...
Some of us, in shame, crawled back home
Some told everyone, and some pretended it wasn't so.
Not every woman is raped…
Some are merely looked at,
And know, how some nightmares begin with a wolf whistle,
And end in skimmed, grazed fearful strife.
Not every girl is raped, no-
Some carry scars and a pocketknife,
Whittled, nibbled, yet refusing to shrivel
They learn to parry, strike, live life!
- Shubira Prasad: Advocating for Awareness and Action in the UNiTE Campaign
Shubira Prasad calls for global engagement in the 16-day UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women to end violence against women and girls. She affirms, “The fight to end violence against women requires more than just awareness; it demands immediate, collective action. The 16 days of activism provide a critical opportunity to spread the message that violence is never acceptable, and we must all work together to dismantle the structures that allow it to persist.”
She stresses the importance of education, stating, “Integrating gender-sensitive education into schools is the first step in fostering a future where respect and equality are foundational.” Shubira also highlights the critical role of empathy and community leaders in creating an environment that supports survivors and promotes gender equality.
Shubira Prasad is a distinguished Indian author with six published books across various genres, including fantasy, romance, and children’s literature. Her notable trilogy—The Demons of Jaitraya, The Angels of Kailash, and The Kumbh Conspiracy—draws inspiration from Indian mythology while exploring modern themes. With over two decades of experience in education, she has served as the principal of two schools.
- Tanushi: Advocating for Empowerment in the UNiTE Campaign
Tanushi, an award-winning poet and author, strongly supports the UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women, to end violence against women and girls. She affirms, "To break the chains of violence, we must stand together in solidarity. The wounds inflicted on women are not just physical; they are psychological and emotional scars that take years to heal."
Through her writing, Tanushi explores the deep impact of violence and toxic relationships, bringing to light the complexities of being a woman in a world that often fails to protect or respect her. In her poem "Growing up to Becoming Me (Unchained)," she shares her personal journey of reclaiming her freedom. She quotes:
"I no longer feel like an item ready to woo or see.
I no longer feel obliged to follow those I love,
I choose who I want to be,
I no longer let anyone overpower my choices."
Her poem further reflects the necessity for societal change, stating:
"Today I'm free.
It took me years to understand,
there was nothing wrong with me,
but everything wrong with them and how they were raised."
Through her words, Tanushi underscores that the solution to ending violence against women lies not only in the empowerment of women but also in addressing the deeper societal issues that perpetuate these cycles of abuse.
- Dr. Priya Bhalla: A Call for Awareness and Empowerment in the Fight Against Violence
As part of the UNiTE Campaign, Dr. Priya Bhalla, Spiritual Master, emphasizes the importance of addressing violence against women through collective responsibility. She asserts that both women and men, as well as governments, must play a role in combating violence, which includes physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse. Dr. Priya advocates for educating women and girls to ensure they are socially, economically, and judicially aware, while also strengthening their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
She stresses that education is key to women's empowerment, breaking cycles of poverty, and ensuring financial independence. Financial freedom, she affirms, gives women the power to make decisions and take actions that improve their lives. Additionally, Dr. Priya believes in the importance of women learning self-defense and understanding legal protections. She calls for strong legal reforms that protect women from violence and promote gender equality, alongside a societal shift away from patriarchal norms.
Dr. Priya Bhalla is a renowned Spiritual Master who has dedicated her life to guiding individuals towards spiritual growth and empowerment. Her insights on gender equality, women's empowerment, and societal change have made a significant impact globally.
- Mohsinaa Ahmad: Empowering Voices to End Gender-Based Violence
Mohsinaa Ahmad, a podcaster, empowerment coach, and name expert, affirms her unwavering support for the 16 Days of Activism UNiTE Campaign (November 25–December 10), managed by UN Women. She highlights the critical need to address workplace and familial violence, often masked as traditional values that perpetuate discrimination and reinforce double standards.
Mohsinaa says, “Change begins when women stand firm against unjust practices, set strong boundaries, and reject societal pressures to please others. By fostering self-respect and resilience, we can build environments where equality and mutual respect thrive.” She emphasizes that collective action and awareness are pivotal in dismantling patriarchal norms that constrain women's progress.
As a prominent voice in empowerment, Mohsinaa Ahmad dedicates her platform to fostering conversations on resilience, self-worth, and transformational change, inspiring women to take charge of their narratives and advocate for a violence-free society.
- Saraswati Raman: Healing Energies for Healthy Relationships
On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Saraswati Raman emphasizes the crucial role of balancing masculine and feminine energies in fostering healthy, respectful relationships. She highlights how imbalances in these energies, often stemming from early life experiences, can contribute to toxic behaviors and emotional chaos. In particular, when men disconnect from their feminine side, they tend to over-rely on masculine traits, which can disrupt relationships.
Saraswati affirms, “True healing and change come when both masculine and feminine energies are nurtured and balanced. By fostering emotional stability, focus, and discipline, men can create deeper, more respectful connections with others.”
A certified Yoga Teacher and Transformational Coach, Saraswati recently shared her insights in a TEDx talk in Jamnagar, where she explored how sound vibrations can heal energetic imbalances and elevate emotional states like love, peace, and enlightenment. After retiring from a 34-year banking career, she now dedicates her life to helping individuals achieve higher vibrations and connect with cosmic consciousness.
- Usha Mani: A Call for Urgent Action to End Gender-Based Violence
As part of the 16 Days UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women, Usha Mani, founder of ParenTeen Bond, emphasizes the urgent need for collective action to end violence against women. She underscores that violence is not merely an individual issue but a deep societal failure. Silence, she asserts, is no longer an option.
Usha states, “The time has come for decisive actions to safeguard women. Teach your sons the importance of respecting womanhood, and empower your daughters with the tools to protect themselves. True freedom lies in self-respect, dignity, and equality. We must work to create a world where women live without fear and with the respect they deserve.”
With over 40 years of experience in enhancing parent-teen relationships, Usha Mani has profoundly impacted communities through her workshops and her book It’s Now or Never. Recognized with the Mahatma Gandhi Leadership Award at Oxford in 2024 and a National Award in 2015, Usha continues to inspire change, promoting safer and more equitable environments for women and girls globally.
Grisu Media Arts and YOUx Talks have partnered with influential leaders across sectors to amplify efforts in creating a safe and equitable society. This collective commitment not only empowers women but also marks the beginning of a transformative movement to eradicate gender-based violence and promote respect and equality worldwide. Sunil Sihaag, founder of Grisu Media Arts Mumbai, appeals to everyone to support the UNiTE Campaign, managed by UN Women, as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (November 25–December 10), emphasizing the urgent need to combat this pressing issue.
For more information, visit www.grisumedia.com & www.youxtalks.com
