Home/Work/Play

Observation:

The home in Koliwada consists not only of the space within the house, but the space outside as well. From observation, we witnessed women gathering and sitting outside their doors, on front steps, or in alleys and open places nearby their homes to chat, watch children play, and relax. Outside space is also used for household chores and other at-home work like washing clothes.

Testimony:

Several of the women interviewed testified to using the steps outside their homes to socialize with friends and neighbors and watch their children play. Children, especially girls, said they either stayed in the space in front of their house to play, or they played in front on their friends’ houses. Girls admitted they played in smaller spaces in front of their homes rather than large open squares like the Holi Maidan because of their fear of getting hit by cricket balls.  

Theme:

Open spaces at home

The home in Koliwada should not be considered as strictly the space within the walls, but also consists of shared space outside the home. The spaces directly outside the home allow for the activities necessary for family life and community vitality in Koliwada and should not be neglected.

Emerging Principle:

Preserve and strengthen open space adjacent to homes for outdoor family and community activities

 

Observation:

 

Many women in Koliwada work outside the home - in fact, some women are the primary providers for their households. In observing women at work in Koliwada, we identified occupations that include making papads, selling fish at the market, and keeping shop. The open space at the fish market plays an important and traditional role in the commercial and social activities of women in Koliwada. In addition, the small commercial spaces for shops and businesses that can be found throughout Koliwada add to the economic strength of women, their families and the community. The streets themselves act not only as pathways, but also as venues for women’s work outside the home.

Testimony:

 

During personal interviews, women cited occupations beyond what had been observed, including shop-owner, beautician, social worker, tailor and banker. Many women work in Koliwada, but some also travel to other parts of Bombay for their jobs. Some women identified their place of work in Koliwada as their main venue for socializing with other woman.

Theme:

 

Spaces for working women

Koliwada is not only home to approximately 25,000 people, but it is also the site of shops, markets, and a variety of commercial businesses. Women often contribute significantly to household incomes, and the tradition of hard-working women in or outside the house has earned them respect and independence in Koliwada. It is imperative that sufficient space for women’s work activities, be it at home, in shops, or in public open space, be preserved in order to strengthen the community economically and to empower women and their positions at home and within the community.

Emerging Principle:

 

Provide sufficient spaces within Koliwada for commercial activity and women’s occupations

Papad making 

 

Typing School

 

Fish Market

Beauty Parlour

Door to door market 

 

Tailors

 

Observation:

 

From observation, there seemed to be a lack of open space where many women can go for leisure activities. Large public spaces, particularly the Holi Maidan, were dominated by men. Women were found mingling and relaxing on front steps (Otta) and at shops like the beauty parlor. In preparation for the Holi festival, women gathered at night on street corners and crossings (Nakas) to dance and sing, but this is the only time of year when it is acceptable for women to be outside at night.

Testimony:

 

In interviews, many women said they had little or no time for personal leisure. If they weren’t working, they stayed at home, spent time with their children, or went to temple or chapel for prayer. Some women mentioned the desire for a women’s gym or running track where they can get physical exercise. They currently do not go to the Holi Maidan because there is nothing for them to do there, the men at the bar and hotel are often drunk and potentially threatening, and boys take over the space for cricket. When asked about a park in Koliwada, some women said they go to parks in other areas for open space. Many said that a park is a good idea as kids need larger areas to play where they won’t disturb homes. Other women said they would like green area to relax and meditate. Several women reacted positively to the prospect of a women’s only park, where their presence outside would be acceptable / legitimate. Other women would rather have a park where they could bring their families and husbands as well.

Theme:

 

Open space for women’s leisure

In addition to preserving the small spaces for neighborhood chit-chat and relaxation, a proper park that provides a legitimate space for women is needed. This space would provide women the opportunity to exercise, gather in large groups with other women, and meditate. This space can also serve as a venue for civic engagement and women’s empowerment by providing a legitimate place for women to get together and address issues that concern them and the community of Koliwada.

Emerging Principle:

 

Create a park for women to relax, recreate, and meet with each other in a safe, pleasant, and legitimate environment

Outside the Gym (usually a male area)

 

Nakas