The story discusses the concept of "anti-Romeo squads" in Uttar Pradesh, India, which are tasked with protecting women from harassment by "eve-teasers." It draws a parallel between the name "Romeo," a character from Shakespeare who symbolizes romantic love, and "Eve," a biblical figure representing temptation and innocence. The anti-Romeo squads position themselves as protectors of women's chastity, reminiscent of medieval puritanism. The narrative explores the roots of this puritanical viewpoint, linking it to a specific tradition within Hinduism associated with the Nath sampradaya, a sect to which the state's chief minister is linked. In this tradition, women are viewed as temptations and sex is seen as detrimental to spiritual pursuits, leading to a preference for celibacy. The article critiques this worldview for prioritizing asceticism and male authority over women's autonomy and sexuality, while noting that contemporary interpretations have shifted celibacy from being linked to the occult to being associated with social service.

by Devdutt Pattanaik in English Mythological Stories

Writen by Devdutt Pattanaik

Category Mythological Stories