- Karachi introduces its first women-only ‘Mandi’, organized by Ruqaiya Fareed, providing women with an opportunity to actively participate in livestock trading and break traditional gender roles.
- The women-only Mandi allows women to experience the vibrant ambiance of Eid ul Adha rituals, becoming an essential part of the sacrificial animal buying process and fostering a sense of inclusivity.
- This initiative is a significant step towards women’s financial independence and economic empowerment, offering a safe and inclusive space for women to engage in livestock trading and pursue their financial aspirations.
This year women in Karachi have the unique opportunity to visit the first women led cattle market organised by power woman, Ruqaiya Fareed. The Maweshi Mandi has been set up in Karachi specially for women, by women. Talking to Times of Karachi, the organiser talked about the idea behind organising this unique never-seen-before cattle farm. Fareed, believes in the idea of women empowerment and giving a place to women in the cattle farming business as it has been a predominantly male led business for centuries.
Visiting the Mandi – A Ritual of Eid ul Adha
Eid ul Adha is incomplete without a visit to the mandi, it not only represents a marketplace but is a part of the rituals of Eid, making the celebration all the more sweeter. It symbolises the spirit of sacrifice, community and generosity that is the definition of this sacred festival, however it is unfortunate that women are mostly left out of this important aspect of Eid ul Adha as the mandi’s are mostly visited by men. For animal loving women who love the vibrant ambiance and want to witness the trading live and enjoy the festive atmosphere for themselves, this year is your chance! Visit the Mandi organised by Ruqaiya Fareed that caters majorly to women but welcomes the entire family too. Women in Karachi can finally experience Eid ul Adha like never before and become an essential part of the sacrificial animal buying process.
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More on the Inception of the Women-Only Mandi
Shedding light on the inception of the women only cattle farm, the organiser believes she wanted to create a unique marketplaces that provides a safe and inclusive space for women to actively participate in livestock trading, an activity that has traditionally been dominated by men in Pakistan and across majority of Muslim countries. She adds that she wants to give a chance for women to participate in the decision making process and to engage as buyers or sellers especially for those women who do not have a man by their side.
Women- Only Mandi a Significant Step Towards Women’s Financial Empowerment
The women- only mandis serve as a significant step towards promotion of women’s economic independence and financial empowerment. In a country like Pakistan where women are not given the freedom to pursue their financial aspirations, this is a unique opportunity for women to explore their financial empowerment. By breaking traditional barriers, this mandi gives women the golden chance to participate in an age-old ritual, gain confidence, learn new skills and generate income for themselves and their families.
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Pakistani Women’s Significant Contributions to Hajj 2023
Check out the video below to know more:
Karachi’s first women only Maweshi Mandi inaugurates ahead of Eid ul Azha.#TOKReports #Karachi #EidulAzha #MaweshiMandi2023 #CowMandi pic.twitter.com/idn8s9PXqV
— Times of Karachi (@TOKCityOfLights) June 15, 2023