Hyderabad: The spirit of International Women’s Day came alive in Kurmaguda Ward, Hyderabad, where over 150 girls and women, ranging from 6-year-olds to senior citizens above 60, actively participated in a series of fun-filled activities and cultural performances.
The event was marked by sports competitions, including Skipping Rope, Lemon & Spoon Race, Three-Leg Jump, and Musical Chairs, along with singing and Rangoli-making competitions. The celebrations concluded with a spectacular Batukamma and Dandiya performance, uniting women across generations in an electrifying display of energy and togetherness.
An Early Celebration to Accommodate Ramazan:
Although International Women’s Day is celebrated on 8th March worldwide, this special program was preponed to 28th February 2025 due to the onset of Ramazan from 2nd March. Despite the date change, the enthusiasm among participants remained high, with many young and elderly women celebrating Women’s Day for the first time in their lives.
Empowerment Through Fun and Participation:
One of the most heartwarming moments came from Ms. Ram Bai, a 65-year-old resident of Chandraiya Huts, who participated in the Spoon & Lemon Race and Musical Chairs. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “After 50 years, I got the opportunity to play like a child again. Now I realize what I have missed all these years!”
More than 30 elderly women actively took part in the games and expressed their wish for such programs to be organized regularly. Their participation symbolized how empowerment is not just about serious discussions but also about reclaiming joy, fun, and a sense of community.
COVA Peace Network’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment:
The event was organized by COVA Peace Network, in collaboration with Chandraiya Huts Development & Peace Group and Kurmaguda Development & Peace Group, with the objective of holistic development and empowerment of women.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Noor Jahan Siddiqui, a member of COVA Peace Network, highlighted the organization’s three-decade-long efforts to uplift women in South City of Hyderabad in the fields of education, healthcare, and peace-building. She emphasized, “Women have the power to transform their families and communities. By standing together, we can ensure peace, progress, and harmony between different communities.”
Distinguished Guests & Prize Distribution
The event was graced by prominent guests, including:
- K. Sajaya – Social Activist
- Mateen Ansari – Community Leader
- Shreela Ghosh – Cultural Expert
- Vyomakesisri – Women’s Rights Advocate
- Aparna Adhikari – Educationist
The esteemed guests addressed the gathering and distributed prizes to all participants, recognizing their enthusiasm and spirit.
A Call for More Such Initiatives
The overwhelming response from the women of Kurmaguda has underscored the need for regular community engagement programs that foster physical well-being, emotional upliftment, and social bonding. The success of this event has inspired the organizers to explore more initiatives to empower women and create inclusive spaces for all age groups to connect and celebrate together.
This International Women’s Day celebration in Hyderabad was not just a commemoration but a testament to the strength, resilience, and joy of women from all walks of life. It proved that age is no barrier to having fun, celebrating life, and embracing empowerment.
With events like this, COVA Peace Network and its partners continue to inspire women to break barriers, reclaim their joy, and work towards a more empowered future.