Matrimonial ads on newspapers and magazines are getting as bizarre as they could be. With people listing bra, waist, and feet size and an unemployed dentist seeking ‘very fair, rich & working bride’, it has sparked a debate on how these ads are loaded with sexism, colorism, and patriarchy.
Therefore, to fight colorism and promote diversity, a leading newspaper has decided they won’t include any information about the complexion of women on their matrimonial ads.
वैवाहिक विज्ञापनों में बेटियों के रंग से जुड़े विवरण अब नहीं छापेगा भास्कर #DainikBhaskar #matrimonial #advertisement pic.twitter.com/myUtwaTo1D
— Dainik Bhaskar (@DainikBhaskar) March 6, 2022
Taking to Twitter, the official account of Dainik Bhaskar tweeted that they won’t use the words, ‘fair’, ‘wheatish’ in their ads to fight colorism in a developing society. In the public announcement, the publication said in Hindi that apart from their colour, women also have unique personalities and abilities.
This progressive step by the newspaper was lauded by people online:
Hope others follow suit to put an end to #Colourism & similar such regressive determinants of #marriage cutting across genders.
Kudos @DainikBhaskar 👍 https://t.co/2bFc4M7QqU
— RAHUL SRIVASTAV (@upcoprahul) March 7, 2022
Across the Indian states, we see ubiquity of taste-based discrimination on the women's skin colour. Matrimonial ads asking for 'fair brides' are standing proof of our societal prejudice.
Other media outlets should emulate this leading Hindi daily in stopping this practice. https://t.co/MgRSl4nkMM
— Sitakanta Panda (@stkntp) March 6, 2022
This is one #Vikas I can definitely appreciate @DainikBhaskar https://t.co/CM4XdISHvO
— Rainman (@indrajitch) March 7, 2022
👍👍👍👍 great thoughts make prosperous society. https://t.co/XRRsR1iU67
— tanmaya mallick (@tanmaykumar21) March 7, 2022
A very good step taken by Bhaskar Group. We appreciate for your this step. @DainikBhaskar https://t.co/B004WJuOp5
— Satvik Jain (@Satvik__Jain) March 7, 2022
Good step.
we should end colourism.
Society should recognise a woman for her character,strength,values , capabilities and talent not for the skin tone she has. https://t.co/hcMFKLvcFm— Sunakshi Namdev (@sunakshi_namdev) March 6, 2022
Its the best gift to all Women's on International women's day by Dainik Bhaskar…
Good Step👌👌@DainikBhaskar https://t.co/pYZAEp3rDq
— Priyanka Sahoo (@Priyank41223414) March 6, 2022
Truly commendable & welcoming step 👏👏💐@DainikBhaskar https://t.co/Ei6exzSNRd
— Neetu Gulati (@NeetuGulati3) March 6, 2022
This is what is called true & respectful journalism!! Bow down to this decision!! 👌 https://t.co/lHNslP5H5n
— Jatish Singla (@jatish_singla) March 6, 2022
We need such decision across all areas and organisations to make ourself more inclusive. Kudos @DainikBhaskar 👍👏🙏 https://t.co/mdP6Vv3pKC
— Prakash Gupta (@lightygalaxy) March 6, 2022
Another step towards a brighter future! #fightagainstracism https://t.co/ZoTQMtZMz1
— Vini Mundra (@vinimundra23) March 6, 2022
Now that’s what we call responsible journalism. Others should also follow suit.