How Toxic Masculinity Enables Oppression

“In our world, boys are not born violent, entitled, or emotionless—society teaches them to be. And we call that masculinity.” In a country devoured by the flames of patriarchy and outdated notions of tradition and culture, the distorted idea of masculinity is visible at every level. But what really is masculinity? If you google it, it defines it as “qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of men.” In simpler terms, it is everything someone identifying as male uses to express their gender. And in today’s world, those expressions span a shocking range from something as mundane as wearing pants to something as dangerous as using violence to assert dominance. Which brings us back to the age-old question: What makes someone a Man? What indeed? How do we recognize a “man” in his so-called natural habitat? What comes to mind when you hear the word? Short hair. Pants. Deep voice. Muscles. Aggression. Mischief. Loudness. Dominance. Assertiveness. These are the traits, often unconsciously, used to label someone a man. A man must be powerful, athletic, and competitive. He must reject anything remotely “feminine,” especially emotions other than anger. He must lead, control and stay independent at all costs. These are the general markers we associate with masculinity. But let’s dig deeper. Which of these traits is universal? Which of these are things young boys grow up believing they must embody to be a “real man”? And should someone’s identity be defined so narrowly by society? Do these rigid definitions come without consequence? Here’s reality : these very characteristics, glorified as “manly,” have brewed a toxic concoction of oppression. Young boys spend their lives chasing an identity that was already theirs, while grown men, fearful of losing that identity, lash out violently. Perhaps this sounds idealistic, even simplistic, but pause for a moment and reflect. The socialization of masculinity teaches boys to reject the feminine, to be tough and aggressive, to suppress every emotion but anger, to distance themselves from intimacy with other men, and to measure worth in competition, power, and dominance. At the core of traditional masculinity lie anti-femininity and homophobia. Take domestic violence as an example. Why does it occur? Surveys point to one common reason: entitlement. A desperate need for control and absolute authority. Are these not direct outcomes of what we’ve defined masculinity to be? We glorify the idea that a man must be a provider, powerful and unyielding, and then turn a blind eye to the aftermath of this dangerous myth. The ripple effects extend beyond men themselves, shaping how women are treated in a patriarchal society. Discrimination and oppression of women aren’t caused by toxic masculinity alone, but this mindset that a human must “prove” themselves worthy of identity through aggression and dominance, certainly enables it. If a child is taught that his identity can be stripped away unless he behaves a certain way, aggressive, careless, disrespectful, then this country will always remain a place where daughters live in fear, and where every human feels inadequate in their own skin. The solution is not complicated. Teach young minds better, and they will build the society we can only dream of, a society built on acceptance, not conformity. A society where being human is enough.

Mental Exercises to Stay Optimistic

“When the outside world feels chaotic, the only way out is to go within.” A state of true fitness comes only when the body is in harmony with the mind. Yet many of us still see fitness as purely physical well-being, forgetting the deeper dimensions of mental and spiritual health. Real happiness blooms when we nurture all three together. After spending months confined within the four walls of our homes, protecting ourselves from Coronavirus, many have begun to struggle with mental health. It’s not easy to stay optimistic when life keeps shifting so abruptly. That’s why The Indian Statement brings you a few simple yet powerful mental exercises to help you stay positive:

• Do Meditation and Yoga

Nothing works better than calming the soul by centering attention on yourself. Meditation done daily fills you with positive energy and a quiet sense of satisfaction. Don’t let negative thoughts consume you, instead find what puts your body, mind and soul at rest. Try calming music or binaural beats, steady your breathing or take walks in natural spaces. Reading uplifting books or simply lying on your bed letting sweet memories flow can do wonders too.

• Appreciate Yourself

Be grateful to yourself for the battles you’ve already won instead of punishing yourself for the ones you lost. Practice positive affirmations, stand before a mirror, look into your eyes and compliment yourself for something you’re proud of. Do this daily to build a healthy relationship with yourself. Discover what bothers you, what comforts you, and what makes you feel at home. Remember, your body shape doesn’t decide your worth. If wearing a short skirt makes you happy, wear it. Keep reminding yourself: you are beautiful, just as you are.

•  Acknowledge Others

Once you’ve recognized the magic within you, look for it in others. Appreciate their hard work, encourage them, remind them of their worth. Even a smile shared can brighten a day. By spreading positivity around you, you double its power. After all, creating a supportive environment benefits everyone.

• Keep Yourself Occupied

As the saying goes, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” Free time often invites negative thoughts. Avoid that by staying active. Do what you love, exercise, dance, journal, learn a new language or pick up a forgotten hobby. But remember, being occupied doesn’t mean overworking. Balance is key. Make a simple to-do list and tick tasks as you go. This will leave you feeling accomplished, and ready for restful sleep.

•  Make Peace with Your Demons

The past can be painful for many people and flashbacks often might even feel overwhelming. But acceptance lessens their power. Psychology shows that trying to “forget” memories only makes them sharper. Instead of resisting, acknowledge them for what they are: events that no longer control your present. By making peace with them, you free yourself to carve a better future. Remember, staying positive isn’t about ignoring struggles, it’s about equipping yourself with habits that help you rise above them. Start small, be gentle with yourself and watch how light slowly returns to your days.

Moussaka Recipe by Vandy

Ingredients

• Eggplant – 1 medium (sliced & sautéed in olive oil)
• Boiled Potatoes – 3 medium (sliced)
• Grated Cheese – 200 g (about ½ cup)

For the Sauce:

• Tomatoes – 6 medium (boiled, blanched & pureed)
• Garlic – 2 tsp (finely chopped)
• Mixed Herbs – 2 tsp
• Fresh Basil – ¼ cup (handful, chopped)
• Zucchini – ½ cup (sliced small)
• Mushrooms – ½ cup (sliced)
• Olive Oil – 2 tsp
• Salt – to taste
• Sugar – 1 tsp (optional, if tomatoes are too sour)

Method (Sauce Preparation)

• Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add zucchini and mushrooms, cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in pureed tomatoes, mixed herbs, salt, and chopped basil.
• (Optional) Add sugar if the sauce tastes too sour.
• Let simmer on low flame for 5 minutes.

Layering the Dish

• In a baking dish, place a layer of sliced potatoes. Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle half the cheese.
• Add the sautéed eggplant slices, pour the remaining sauce over them, and top with the rest of the cheese.
• Preheat oven to 200°C. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 5–6 minutes until the top turns golden brown.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot with a Mixed Green Salad tossed in lemon juice or simply drizzle with balsamic vinegar for freshness.

Making the impossible possible – Culinary

“Some journeys begin in pain, others in passion. For Vandana Dewan, it began with both and transformed it into a mission that would one day change how a nation eats.” The Good Stuff by Vandy’s didn’t just happen, it was born out of relentless struggle, grit and one woman’s unwavering desire to transform the eating habits of an increasingly obese nation. For Vandana Dewan, founder of Vandy’s, healthy eating isn’t just a trend, it’s a way of life. Few people not only choose this path for themselves but also dedicate their lives to helping others walk it too. Vandana is one of those rare changemakers. Her story began in her teenage years. At just 16, Vandana weighed 80 kilos. The turning point came one day when she overheard classmates ridiculing her weight. Instead of breaking down, she made a bold decision, to transform herself. Within 90 days, she had dropped to 45 kilos with a 21-inch waistline. That milestone was just the beginning. Through her journey, she realized that crash diets and quick fixes were dangerous illusions. The real secret lay in clean, wholesome, healthy eating. Fueled by her newfound passion, she explored aerobics when it was first introduced in India and soon became a trainer at Hauz Khas Village. Her curiosity pushed her deeper into the culinary world. From experimenting at home to interning with the prestigious Oberoi Hotels and training at the Academy of Pastry Arts, Vandana mastered the art of creating food that was not just tasty but nourishing. Even as a mother of two, she continued her mission, crafting meals that were nutritious, low-calorie, and loved by her family. Soon, her culinary classes opened up a world of healthy possibilities for others. Traveling across the globe only enriched her understanding of diverse cuisines and widened her creative canvas. Finally, her dream took shape as Good Stuff by Vandy’s, a vegan café located in Modern Bazaar, Gurugram. Here, every dish tells a story, of fresh produce sourced daily from trusted farms, of creativity, of balance. The menu spans across vibrant salads, wholesome soups, hearty wraps, indulgent-yet-healthy cakes, sandwiches, Buddha Bowls, smoothies, and guilt-free desserts. Plant-based, low-calorie, and bursting with flavor, her recipes are designed for every palate and every age group. What makes Good Stuff by Vandy special is not just the food, it’s the philosophy.  Vandana introduces new and innovative recipes regularly, making healthy eating exciting, inclusive, and sustainable. Her creations prove that health and fitness don’t have to mean sacrifice. Her journey continues to inspire many. Guided by the philosophy of nutritional therapist Amelia Freer “Nutrition is not low fat or low calorie. It’s not being hungry and feeling deprived. It’s nourishing your body with real whole foods so that you are consistently satisfied and energised to live life to the fullest.” Vandana has made it her life’s mission to share this message with the world. Good food, good health, good life, this is the essence of The Good Stuff by Vandy’s. 🌿

India’s Favourite Beverages

“India doesn’t just eat according to its seasons, it drinks with them too. And here, every sip tells a story of comfort, culture and community.” India is a land of extremes from bone-chilling winters, scorching summers, and monsoons that bring their own charm. With every season comes a shift in our cravings. Spicy, hot comfort foods dominate winter, while chilled delights rule summer. But one thing remains constant: after a long, tiring day, everyone longs for something refreshing. And in India, street-side beverage stalls are the true saviors, found on almost every corner. Here are some of the most loved drinks that keep the nation energized. 🍋 Shikanji (Lemonade, Indian Style)  There’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of lemon juice, called lemonade across the world and shikanji in India. But unlike plain lemonade, shikanji comes with a spicy twist: black salt, mint, black pepper, and chaat masala, all mixed with tangy lemon. Served as a welcome drink in homes and at roadside stalls, it is the go-to refresher for workers, travelers, and anyone battling exhaustion. ☕ Chai (Tea) If there’s one beverage India is obsessed with, it’s tea. From bustling streets to quiet villages, “ek cup chai” is the magic phrase that revives millions every day. Tea doesn’t just fight sleepiness, it’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a daily comfort. Over time, this love has birthed many variations: masala chai, cutting chai, and even smoky tandoori chai, which is served from a clay cup charred over fire. 🍹 Sugarcane Juice Freshly pressed sugarcane juice is India’s natural energy drink. Found along highways, markets, and street corners, it’s cheap, hydrating, and delicious. Usually served with ice cubes, ginger, and a splash of lemon, this golden-green juice is both filling and refreshing, perfect for summer weariness. This tasty drink is served in glasses with ice cubes and a little ginger and lemon flavour. Which makes it more yummy. Just a glass of sugarcane juice is enough to makeyou energetic and fill your stomach as well. 🥛 Lassi  A true gift from Punjab, lassi is made by churning fresh yogurt with milk until smooth and frothy. Traditionally sweetened or salted, lassi is now enjoyed in many flavors—mango, strawberry, chocolate, and the ever-popular masala lassi. Served in tall glasses or traditional clay cups, it’s as much a cultural symbol as a drink. 🥤 Buttermilk (Chaas/Matha/Ghol) Known by many names across India, chaas in Gujarat, matha in North India and ghol in Bengal, buttermilk is a light, tangy, yogurt-based drink. Spiced with roasted cumin, curry leaves, or simply sweetened, it’s the ultimate summer cooler. Often served in clay pots, it not only aids digestion but also carries a rustic charm. 🥥 Tender Coconut Water  Few things beat the simplicity of sipping fresh coconut water straight from the shell. Found abundantly across South India and coastal towns, it’s nature’s own sports drink, cooling, hydrating and nutritious. The tender coconut flesh inside adds an extra treat, making it both a drink and a snack. Apart from these six favorites, India’s beverage culture is rich and diverse, right from fruit juices, cold coffee, milkshakes, smoothies, mint coolers and of course the ever-present cold drinks. Whatever the season, there’s always a refreshing sip waiting just around the corner.

You Can’t Glow Up Until You Grow Up

Every girl, boy, man and woman want to look the best and different and want tostand out in a crowd. Glow up tricks are something which are getting viral and recommended day by day. We can’t deny that all of us have searched for ‘daily skincare routine’ and ‘makeup tutorial’ vlogs of our favourite celebrities and influencers. Everyone dreams of having a clear Korean skin, slender body personality, good profile picture and maximum number of followers on social media. Glow up is a prominent way for getting all these. What exactly is Glow-up? For people who think, glow up is only getting a fair complexion, it’s not. Glow up is actually making yourself look smarter, brighter with a changed and developed personality. We can say that it is a part of the “then vs now challenge” which was trending on social media a few months back. What are Glow up tricks? Well, there are end number of tricks and tips that should be made a part of the routine to get a proper glow up in a less span of time. Let’s discuss the most recommended tricks.

• Drinking water:

It’s said thatat least 3 and at most 7 litres of water is mandatory for being consumed everyday to become successful in the Glow up challenge. Drinking water is actually very healthy and useful. It helps in the ejection of waste and makes your body hydrated which leads to clear skin, smooth digestion and avoids dehydration.

• Use of face masks and scrubs:

Hydrating face sheet masks, fruit serum masks are getting popular amongst everyone now a days. In fact using a hydrating face mask has become the first step in makeover. Let’s talk overthe traditional tips. We all have been to haldi ceremonies Of our relatives and friends which are an important part of pre-wedding ceremonies. Most of us know the fact that haldi that is turmeric is a natural ingredient which helps for an instant glowing skin. Turmeric and gram flour face masks and scrub are traditionally popular in our Indian families. These face masks Also can be used twice a week to have a glow up.    

• Eat fruits and vegetables:

A cliché one! Healthy food is a very important part of glow up. The more nutrition you consume, the better glow up result you get. You should at least have one fruit or a glass of natural fruit juice everyday. Natural, ripened fruits help in detoxification of body which again leads to beautiful, clear skin. Stop saying no to whatever your mom prepared at home for lunch and dinner and avoid going to restaurants to have meals.

• Exercise and meditate :

Let’s change a common and addictive habitof using cell phones as soon as you wake up in the morning. Give yourself a break from the harmful radiations of your cell phones and avoid watching social media apps early in the morning. Believe me or not it actually makes your day bad bygiving you lots of insecurities and tensions. Calm yourself. Drink a glass of water and do proper exercise and yoga at home or gym. I would prefer home. Telling the benefits of yoga and Physical exercise will need another, separate article. Meditation is a must. Until you relax yourself mentally you cant give your body a good vibe to start the day.

• Self-grooming , change the routine :

Get your eyebrows, nails, hair, beard and moustache done. Wash your hair at least twice a week with cold water, use cucumber and potato slices to hydrate your eyes and get rid of dark circles. Use lip scrubs and different scrubs to get rid of facial problems. Change your routine, get up early and sleep early. Make a to do list and study and work hard. Whatever you’ll do today will be paid off later one day. Always motivate yourself and your family, friends and loved ones.     What else is necessary for the glow up? As said in the title you need to grow up mentally to get a perfect glow up. Stop worrying about the followers on social media and people who dislike you. If you think you are getting low, change yourself, change the way of your living, learn to face and tackle difficult situations, take your own decisions. Thus, try to change for the better inside out. If you liked and followed this article, congratulations! You have won in the Glow up challenge. IMAGE SOURCES: PINTEREST AND YOUTUBE.

Sarees don’t need an occasion to drape!

 “Trends come and go, but the saree is forever. One drape, a million moods and our Bollywood divas prove just how timeless and versatile it can be!” The saree is one Indian outfit that never goes out of style. It flatters every body type, works for almost every occasion and strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. Whether it’s a festive celebration, a wedding, or even a workday, the drape can make you look sophisticated without trying too hard. If you also need some inspiration for your next saree look? Let’s take notes from these Bollywood beauties who’ve styled it to perfection.

• Alia Bhatt – Simple & Chic

The Sadak 2 actress proves that less is more in a bright red floral organza saree. The sheer fabric, with its hand-painted flower motifs, makes the outfit delicate yet striking. Pair it with golden jhumkas, straight sleek hair, and a soft lipstick shade. Minimal makeup here is the key to looking effortlessly graceful.

• Tara Sutaria – Glam in White & Gold

Tara knows how to keep it classy in a white and golden saree that screams elegance. The trick is to let the outfit do the talking. Keep accessories minimal, but make your makeup the highlight, think glossy lips and bold eyes. Style your hair straight or in soft waves for a balanced glam look.

• Katrina Kaif – Fresh & Playful

Katrina’s lime green chiffon saree is proof that the right color can instantly lift your mood. She wears it pinned-free, keeping the drape loose and flowy. Add simple ethnic earrings, subtle makeup, and soft waves to nail the breezy yet desi vibe.

• Kareena Kapoor Khan – Royal Elegance

If you want to go full glam, take a cue from Kareena’s emerald green silk saree. Pair it with an emerald stone necklace for that regal touch. Dark kohl-lined eyes, blow-dried voluminous hair, and nude lips bring the whole look together, perfect for an evening soiree. From fresh florals to royal silks, these celebrity-approved saree looks are perfect for your next big occasion. Just pick your vibe, add the right accessories, and let the saree work its timeless magic.

Sabyasachi X H&M

Love the Sabyasachi x H&M collection but missed out ? Don’t worry, your dream boho-chic wardrobe is still within reach and on a budget! The Sabyasachi x H&M collection, yes, the one that made every fashion lover skip a heartbeat, was nothing less than legendary. Imagine India’s most loved designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee joining hands with global fast-fashion giant H&M. The result? A dreamy ‘Wanderlust’ collection. Bohemian, bold and dripping with global nomad aesthetics. Inspired by travel, Sabya fused timeless Indian textiles with a touch of Morocco, Istanbul and Japan. Within minutes of launch, the collection was sold out worldwide. British Vogue even called it one of the most iconic collaborations in fashion history. But let’s be honest, most pieces were either sold out in seconds or came with a price tag that made us rethink our shopping cart. And that’s where the heartbreak began for most of us.  So what if you couldn’t grab the Sabyasachi X H&M originals? The good news is, you don’t need to. You can recreate the same vibe on a budget with pieces from Fabindia, Myntra and other high-street brands because affordable doesn’t need to mean boring. Here’s how you can channel the Wanderlust aesthetic without splurging:

• Cream/Red Saree – Pair a flowy printed saree with a minimalist blouse for that signature Sabya elegance.

• Dark Khaki Beige Shorts – Style them with a boho crop top and chunky sandals for a wanderer’s vibe.

• Printed Dress – Go for earthy tones with tribal or floral prints. Add a waist belt to nail the silhouette.

• Floral Skirt – Think breezy fabrics, bold florals, and a tucked-in shirt, chic yet comfy.

• Large Earrings & Coin Bracelet – Statement jewelry is key. The bigger, the better.

And you know the best part? These pieces don’t just copy the look, they give you space to experiment, mix and add your own personality. Fashion is less about imitation and more about inspiration, so wear it your way. This season, let’s celebrate style without guilt-tripping our wallets. Because honestly, being fashionable doesn’t mean spending a fortune , it means being confident, creative and unapologetically YOU.

Invest in THESE accessories if you are a girl who lives in her kurtas

Everytime you open your wardrobe, you’ll find one timeless hero waiting for you, the kurta.But here’s the secret, styling a simple kurta doesn’t take a designer label, just a few clever add-ons that can instantly turn basic into breathtaking. We all know that kurtis never goes out of style. Whether you’re heading to work, celebrating a festival, or just catching up with friends,  it fits in everywhere. But to keep it from looking too plain, the right accessories can transform it into a statement outfit. Here’s a list of styling must-haves that every girl should own to make her kurta shine :     One thing you can perpetually depend upon if you open your closet, is a good kurta. It’s a piece of clothing which never appears out of place and suits each occasion- be it work, a festival, or simply chilling out together with your friends. Kurtas are a girl’s best friend, right? There are a plentiful fashion hacks which will not only solely appear like you’ve placed in some effort, however will elevate you from the dull and uninteresting status pretty simply. We have curated together an inventory of items which are basic but when styled with a decent kurta, will certainly add all the spark the outfit needs! Therefore, lets dive right into it!

1. Jhumkas & Hoops

Nothing elevates a kurta like statement earrings. From Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar to Mumbai’s Colaba Causeway, you’ll find endless choices at pocket-friendly prices. Online stores also have great collections if street shopping isn’t your thing. Keep both silver and gold tones in your collection, they go with everything.    

2. Multicolored Dupatta

Sometimes, all it takes is a vibrant dupatta to make a kurta outfit feel festive. Think Benarasi for a regal touch or Bandhani for that playful charm. A single statement dupatta can be styled on repeat for weddings, get-togethers, or even casual brunches, a true wardrobe investment.  

3. Kolhapuri Chappals

Comfort meets desi chic with Kolhapuris. Flat, easy to walk in, and available in tons of styles, they instantly add a traditional edge to your kurta look. Pair them with palazzos, churidars, or even jeans-with-kurta, and you’ll still nail that effortless ethnic vibe.

4. Bindis: The Underrated Star

One tiny dot, and your look goes from simple to striking. Bindis are often overlooked, but when paired with a kurta, they add grace and elegance that no other accessory can. Whether you go minimal or experiment with colors, this old-school accessory is forever iconic.

5. Bangles That Sparkle

No kurta look is truly complete without bangles. Keep both silver and gold ones handy – trust us, they’ll go with almost everything. Go minimal with slim sets for daily wear, or stack chunky designs for festive vibes. Either way, they’ll bring that extra spark to your outfit. So now you know that fashion doesn’t always mean complicated. A basic kurta paired with the right accessories can outshine even the most glamorous outfits. So next time you pull one out of your closet, remember,it’s all in the details.

Indian New Music Progressing With Old Lyrics

Every family has its own music battle, “Hamare zamane ke gaane alag hi the” versus “Nahi, aaj ka music hi vibe hai!” 

The older generation defends the golden melodies, while today’s youth swear by bass drops and pop beats. Music, after all, isn’t just entertainment anymore, it’s comfort, therapy and sometimes even identity. But somewhere between this tug of war, a new trend took birth, re-created songs. Think of it as a hand-me-down saree stitched into a modern gown. The soul is the same, but the look feels brand new. In Bollywood and Indi-pop, old classics are often repackaged with EDM beats, higher tempo and fresh voices. Sometimes, it feels like a tribute; other times, like an unnecessary remix. So re-creation started as an experiment. Filmmakers wanted music that resonated with their stories but also carried a nostalgic pull. So, composers picked timeless tracks, gave them new arrangements, and sometimes even experimented with tempo and instrumentation. And the reaction? Mixed! Some songs were applauded for breathing new life into forgotten gems. Others were roasted online for “ruining the original.” But the few that worked sparked a trend, turning re-creation into a full-fledged formula. Head over to YouTube, and you’ll find the battlefield. One side floods the comments with “Original is gold!” while another defends the fresh beats. Influencers roast them, memes trend, and comparisons are inevitable. Most often, nostalgia wins, audiences lean toward the originals. Yet, some recreations like “Tamma Tamma Again” or “Humma Song (2.0)” prove that when done right, a re-creation can create its own fanbase. Not all is bad. Re-created songs introduce forgotten classics to Gen Z and millennials. Tunes once lost in vinyl records now live again on Spotify playlists. They also showcase a composer’s creativity, after all, transforming something old without losing its essence is an art in itself. And sometimes, re-creations even travel across languages, helping music cross borders and generations. Yet, amidst all this, one truth stands tall: nothing matches the magic of originals. From Lata Mangeshkar’s soulful renditions to A.R. Rahman’s masterpieces, original compositions are the spine of Indian music. They carry authenticity, emotion, and the stories of their time. As listeners, perhaps it’s not about choosing sides but appreciating both. Originals remind us of roots, while re-creations prove music can be reborn. So the next time you hear an old melody with a modern beat, don’t rush to judge. Instead, think of it as music’s way of telling us: every song deserves a second life. So which side are you on ?