Conversation with Ashmina Ranjit, Copenhagen, 2006

In the conversation, artist Ashmina Ranjit shares her story of growing up in a deeply patriarchal society. Ranjit is a Nepali artist visiting Copenhagen. She describes her early years as challenging, facing societal expectations that limited her freedom. Ranjit sought an identity beyond the roles imposed on her. “Freedom is very important, and somehow I realized that to be truly free and to fly… was important and really kept me going in life.” Initially, Ranjit considered becoming a pilot. However, over time, she discovered art as a medium she could use to confront inequalities and injustices while focusing on gender issues.

In questioning the social norms that dictate women’s behavior and aspirations, Ranjit encountered significant resistance from both her family and society. She recalls her 1998 exhibition on women's sexuality and body autonomy, where she faced public backlash and accusations of Western influence. “There is an ideal model of womanhood, like Sita, that women are told to follow. Sexuality and body awareness are never discussed, leading to many issues, even chronic diseases.” Ranjit also speaks about her efforts to break taboos around menstruation within Hindu culture, as menstruating women are often considered impure and subjected to restrictive practices. Through her art, she presents menstruation as a powerful natural force “that is a matter of celebration rather than putting it down... If menstruation doesn't happen... life comes to a standstill."

In her experiences abroad, Ranjit initially assumed gender inequality was exclusive to South Asia: “Traveling made me realize that patriarchy and inequality aren’t limited to Nepal or South Asia. In the West, while inequality isn’t as obvious, it exists in subtler, peripheral ways. It made me question why people everywhere seem hesitant to talk about feminism and equality.” She notes that while Scandinavian countries are seen as models for gender equality, her workshops with local women revealed persistent gender disparities that contrast with the region's egalitarian image. Ranjit emphasizes the importance of continued dialog and exchange of views on gender issues worldwide, encouraging women to assert their worth while building understanding across cultures.