A Day in the Life of an Indian Housewife: Responsibilities and Realities
Life as an Indian housewife can be quite a unique and varied experience, depending on individual circumstances and societal norms. In this article, we will delve into the typical daily routine of many Indian housewives, showcasing both the similarities and differences to modern lifestyles. This exploration will help us understand the complexities and challenges that Indian housewives face every day.
Daily Schedule
Many Indian housewives wake up late in the morning, often between 10 AM and 11 AM, after a brief rest. A quick shower or personal grooming follows, allowing them to prepare themselves for the day ahead. Routine practices, such as performing a pooja (a Hindu worship ritual) and preparing tea for breakfast, might occur simultaneously, occupying an hour of their morning.
Sitting down to watch Indian television shows, perhaps with some ready-made snacks, many housewives find solace in these leisurely moments. Once breakfast is over, attention turns to nurturing the family, including feeding and bathing the child. This aspect of childcare is a critical responsibility, requiring a blend of nurturing and discipline.
The afternoon might see the housewife continuing to watch television until mid-day before putting the child to sleep between 4 PM to 5 PM. Household chores, such as sweeping the floor and preparing dinner, are commonly performed during these periods, often while listening to old Hindi songs or having a phone conversation with a relative about shared memories from the past.
Managing Household and Family Dynamics
During dinner preparation, another child might wake up, leading to the distribution of an iPad to keep the younger one occupied while the older one is fed. Often, a husband returns home tired from his workday, and an evening meal is served while the housewife continues to watch television until the late hours, sometimes until 1 AM.
Reflecting on the daily routine of a housewife, one cannot help but see both the boredom and interest in daily life. However, it's important to acknowledge that these experiences reflect life in the moment rather than an idealized version of perfection. Every day brings new challenges and rewards, and it is through these experiences that one learns and grows.
Personal Reflection
As a former home-maker, I can share insights into the life of an Indian housewife. When my husband had a morning shift, I would wake up early to prepare his breakfast and packed his lunch for the day. Once he left, I could enjoy the rest of the day to myself until he returned. I had a maid for domestic help, making my tasks much more manageable. I never felt that my work was less significant since both jobs require substantial effort.
When we had two kids and my in-laws joined us, my daily routine became more demanding. I had to manage packing three tiffins in the morning, with my own lunch ready by 8 AM. Despite the challenges, I never felt that my work was less important than my husband's. Implementing household management effectively is crucial for maintaining a smooth and harmonious home environment.
However, many housewives face the challenge of inefficiency in managing household tasks, leading to feelings of shame rather than pride. This paradox highlights the need for better life skills education among children, recognizing that both jobs—whether inside or outside the home—are vital and demanding. Developing effective skills in-house can help alleviate the burden and foster a more balanced and productive household environment.
In essence, the life of an Indian housewife is filled with both routine and variability, reflecting the complex nature of family life and domestic responsibilities. Understanding these dynamics can help us appreciate the immense effort and dedication that goes into maintaining a household and supporting a family.