Indian father breaks menstruation stigma, throws heartwarming party for daughter’s first period

New Delhi: In a heartwarming gesture to break the stigma surrounding menstruation, Jitendra Bhatt, a music teacher from Uttarakhand, hosted a celebratory party for his daughter Ragini’s first period. The event, attended by family and friends, aimed to challenge misconceptions and promote awareness about this natural biological process.

Speaking to India Today, Jitendra Bhatt shared his motivation behind the unique celebration, stating that when he was younger, he was unaware of the stigma associated with periods. As he grew older, he observed how women and girls were often looked down upon during this time and considered impure or untouchable. Determined to challenge these misconceptions, he decided to celebrate his daughter’s first period as a day of happiness devoid of any negative associations.

The photos from the celebration showcase a joyous occasion, with Ragini posing alongside her loved ones. The event not only marked an important milestone in Ragini’s life but also served as a significant step towards normalizing conversations about menstruation.

 

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First periods can be a challenging and confusing time for many girls, but with the support of family and friends, the transition can be eased. Many locals congratulated Ragini and her family on social media, appreciating Jitendra Bhatt’s initiative and acknowledging the importance of raising awareness about menstruation.

In various regions across India, a girl’s first period is celebrated as a significant moment for the entire family. Customs and rituals are observed in states like South India, Odisha, and Assam, where ceremonial baths and gifting of sarees and jewelry to the girl child are common practices. 

Despite such celebratory traditions, menstruation remains a taboo topic in many parts of India. However, the efforts made by individuals like Jitendra Bhatt serve as a powerful message of awareness and a reminder that periods are a natural and essential part of life, deserving both empathy and celebration.