CEQUIN’s ‘Mardon Wali Baat – Unlearnt & Rescripted’ Sparks National Dialogue on Indian Masculinities

Delhi based nonprofit organiztion CEQUIN (Centre for Equity and Inclusion) and Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies hosted a National Conference on Men, Masculinities & Gender-Based Violence at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Titled ‘Mardon Wali Baat: Unpacking Patriarchy, Gender Stereotypes & the Shaping of Indian Masculinities,’ the day-long conference brought together thought leaders, policymakers, activists, influencers, and practitioners to challenge gender norms, address patriarchal conditioning, and redefine masculinities in contemporary India.

Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, delivered the keynote address, setting the tone for urgent and inclusive conversations on gender equity. Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, emphasized the importance of engaging men in gender discourse, while Sara Abdullah Pilot, Co-Founder & Chairperson, CEQUIN, and Lora Krishnamurthi Prabhu, Co-Founder & Managing Director, CEQUIN, welcomed speakers and delegates.

One of the highlights of the event was the screening of ‘Mardangi Reloaded’, a digital campaign film showcasing the journey of 46 grassroots micro-influencers who have sparked a nationwide dialogue on positive masculinities through CEQUIN’s Mardon Wali Baat – Unlearnt & Rescripted campaign. 

Redefining Masculinity in Culture, Mental Health & Society

In a fireside chat with Sarah Pilot actor and activist Rahul Bose explored the portrayal of masculinity in cinema and its influence on real-world attitudes. Reflecting on the evolving notion of masculinity, Bose stated, “For too long, masculinity has been defined by dominance, aggression, and emotional suppression. It is time to rewrite the script—one where strength lies in empathy, courage in vulnerability, and power in equality.”

Dr. Amit Sen, mental health activist and Founder, Children First India, engaged in a crucial discussion on men’s emotional well-being and mental health with Lora K. Prabhu.

Prominent political leaders came together for a session addressing the intersection of patriarchy with governance, economy, and society. The session featured senior Congress leader Professor Rajeev Gowda, Dilip Cherian, Political Campaign Advisor, and Anish Gawande, Author & NCP Spokesperson, in conversation with Sara Abdullah Pilot and Lora K. Prabhu.

The conference spotlighted on-ground initiatives engaging men and boys in gender transformation, with experts such as Harish Sadani (MAVA – Men Against Violence & Abuse), Satish Kumar Singh (Azad Foundation), Yogesh Vaishnav (Vikalp Sansthan & Chair, MenEngage Alliance India), and Aleena Varghese (The Gender Lab) sharing their experiences.

Digital Influence & Rewriting Masculinities

The role of micro-influencers in reshaping narratives of masculinities took center stage in the session ‘Digital Duniya aur Mardangi – Positive Masculinities ki Recipes’, featuring youth influencers Saurabh Jhulum (Mumbai), Amit Sagar (Delhi), Harshit Pandey (Lucknow), Shivam (Delhi), and Harjot (Delhi). Their insights highlighted how social media can drive meaningful cultural change in regional and digital communities.

A powerful pop-up performance, ‘Mard Kaun Hain Asli?’ by Vicky, added an artistic dimension to the discourse, bringing personal narratives and lived experiences to life.

A Commitment to an Equitable Future

The closing plenary, ‘Badalte Rang – Rewiring Masculinities for an Equitable Future,’ brought together leading voices in gender equity, including Kanta Singh (Deputy Country Representative, UN Women India), Dr. Rukmini Sen (Dean, B.R. Ambedkar University), Natasha Joshi (Associate Director, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies), Sara Abdullah Pilot, and Lora Krishnamurthi Prabhu, reinforcing the collective vision for a future where masculinity is defined by empathy, respect, and shared responsibility.

Rohini Nilekani emphasized the urgency of this transformation, stating, “”Gender equity isn’t about one group—it’s about the whole spectrum. Young men today face rising insecurity, alongside hope and aspiration, but also anxiety. We need spaces to listen, learn, and engage—without noise or judgment. CEQUIN’s Mardon Wali Baat is fostering these crucial conversations.

At RNP, we started by supporting women but soon realized the need to address the root causes among men and boys. What began with one organization has now grown to over 40 partners. To truly drive change, we need more donors, stronger policies, and innovative ways to reach young men. Building this ecosystem is essential for a more just and equitable future.”

Sara Abdullah Pilot added, “Mardon Wali Baat is more than just a conversation—it is a movement to unlearn deep-rooted gender biases and reshape the way masculinity is understood and practiced in India. By engaging young men as allies, we are laying the foundation for a society where equality is not just an ideal but a lived reality.”

Lora Krishnamurthi Prabhu noted, “This conference is a testament to the fact that positive masculinity is gaining ground in India. We are witnessing a new generation of men who are willing to challenge stereotypes, embrace vulnerability, and become true partners in the gender equity movement.”

With engaging conversations, digital storytelling, and deep community insights, the conference established Mardon Wali Baat as a pioneering initiative that is transforming how masculinity is perceived, practiced, and celebrated in India.

CEQUIN has been paving the way for an equitable and inclusive society where men and women share equal opportunities and responsibilities. The latest conference is expected to serve as a pivotal platform for thought leadership, grassroots engagement, and digital activism, driving forward the conversation on gender-equitable masculinities in India.