We are honoured to announce that Deepa Mehta, director, filmmaker and screenwriter is our International Patron!
Deepa’s partnership with Sambhali is a natural continuation of her lifelong commitment to advancing global gender equality, and we feel truly blessed to be associated with such a strong advocate of human rights. Deepa’s recent visit to Sambhali sparked excitement, awe and inspiration amongst the women, staff and volunteers at the Trust.
We welcomed her warmly into Jodhpur; piling marigold garlands high around her neck at the airport and showering her with rose petals upon her arrival at Sambhali Headquarters. Her speech was magical; everything seemed to stand still as she encouraged female empowerment, leadership, strength and unity amongst Sambhali’s women and girls.
Deepa’s work is unapologetically controversial. It highlights social issues such as traditions, stereotypes and gender roles in India through ordinary lives. Mehta’s most recent work Anatomy of Violence explores the life events that lead six men to carry out the 2012 Delhi gang rape that shook the world. We screened this film during her visit, which has expanded the women’s understanding of the root causes and complexity of brutality against women in India.
Deepa is a hero and role model for these young, at-risk and suppressed Indian girls.
Her success as an Indian woman shows them that they can also thrive outside of traditional career paths and encourages them to believe that their voices and stories matter, whatever their social situation. We cherish this relationship and the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with Deepa to empower the women of Sambhali, Rajasthan and beyond.
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