In February of this year, the film “The Beginning”, which was directed by Sahiyo Co-Founder, activist, and filmmaker Insia Dariwala, was screened at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai, India. “The Beginning” is a poignant story about ending the cycle of female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C). FGM/C is the deliberate cutting or removal of a female’s external genitalia. It often involves the removal or cutting of the labia and clitoris. The event also included a workshop, which was facilitated by Insia, on the harms of FGM/C, and provided a space for participants to discuss the issue openly.

While several participants had heard of FGM/C, many weren’t aware of what it actually involved. Through insightful questioning, Insia was able to create a clear understanding of FGM/C, which shocked several participants. Silence is one of the main reasons this harmful practice is still carried out, so conversations like the one in this workshop must take place to spread awareness about FGM/C. Insia explained that in some communities, FGM/C is viewed as a rite of passage into womanhood, while in others, it is used to control a girl’s sexuality and ensure her “purity” and fidelity for marriage.

After the initial discussion, the film was shown to the participants. The story follows a mother who was struggling to come to terms with the fact that her daughter will also have to undergo this harmful practice, which had only left her traumatised. Throughout the film, we see the mother go through flashbacks of how awful FGM/C was and has been for her. Tormented by the fact that she is doing the same thing to her daughter, she takes a stand. In a tragic yet hopeful climax, she runs to her daughter, hugs her tight, and turns to the rest of the family, refusing to hurt her daughter. This refusal marks the beginning of change and heralds a new era of hope for the mother and daughter, and their community. 

While the film ended in a hopeful manner, the atmosphere in the room was still quite heavy and intense. After a few minutes of a break, Insia opened the floor for questions. What followed was a thoughtful and enlightening discussion that was equal parts informative and emotional. Insia also led a grounding session to help the participants process their feelings. She gently guided them to close their eyes and take deep breaths, encouraging them to become aware of the heavy energy residing in their bodies. As they focused inward, Insia skillfully helped the participants identify the sensations weighing them down. Through her calming presence and insightful prompts, she helped them gradually reduce the intensity of that heaviness that had come from viewing the film.

Feedback from the participants indicated that they truly enjoyed the session, felt that they were now better informed about FGM/C and its harms, and were hopeful that events like this one would continue to take place. One participant said that, “While I was very sad to hear that FGM/C still takes place, I am happy that I am informed about it so I can help raise my voice against these practices”.