Is Mumbai ready for SlutWalk?

After months of shifting dates, media speculation and debates on the name, SlutWalk Delhi Arthaat Besharmi Morcha 2011 finally took place in the capital on Sunday. It wasn’t the roaring success one expected it to be. Around 500 people joined in for the Walk that aims to highlight the concept that women should have the right to wear whatever they want to without the fear of being harassed.
The city may see its own version of the Besharmi Morcha come September.
Ekta Kapoor, Producer
The SlutWalk has managed to draw attention to women’s fundamental right to live with dignity and respect. Mumbai as a city is more liberal and the changing mindset indicates that it’s ready for a SlutWalk.
Lillete Dubey, Actress
In principle, it’s a great idea. However, I am not sure how much of an impact Delhi’s SlutWalk had in the capital. I was there over the weekend, but I did not hear many people talking about it. If Delhi can do it, I am sure Mumbai definitely can. Women have the right to dress as they please, however, having said that you have to realise that wearing something provocative on the streets is going to invite attention. It’s always best to dress for the occasion.
Rahul DaCunha, Theater personality
I don’t know if one morcha can change the mindset of people. It requires a sustained effort. According to me, the whole of India, not only Mumbai is ready for its own version of the SlutWalk.
Hasleen Kaur, Pantaloons Femina Miss India Earth 2011
Delhi’s Slut Walk or Besharmi Morcha had women from all walks of life coming on to the streets, which is a big thing. There is no doubt in my mind that Mumbai is ready to organise its own version of the SlutWalk to mobilise people into changing the way they think, giving women the respect they deserve.
Raell Padamsee, theatre personality
Every movement takes time to gain momentum. Delhi’s SlutWalk succeeded in getting people to talk about women’s right to live with dignity and respect. It will take time to change years of conditioning. Besides, Mumbai as a city is more liberal then Delhi and is definitely ready to organise a similar protest.