In the vast expanse of Chennai's coastline, a new wave of female surfers is carving their path, challenging societal norms and carving out their own space in a traditionally male-dominated sport. This article delves into the experiences of these women, exploring the unique challenges they face, the progress they've made, and the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in surfing.
A Wave of Change
The ocean, with its ever-changing moods and powerful waves, has become a symbol of empowerment for these women. For 16-year-old Kamali Moorthy, the path is paved by an older generation of female surfers who dared to venture into the waves when surfing was barely a recognized sport in India. Their courage and determination have opened doors for the younger generation, providing a sense of belonging and inspiration.
"The older generation has carved a good path for us to not have any challenges right now," Kamali says. "Their competing and traveling to other cities and countries made people aware of the existence of surfing in India."
This sense of community and shared purpose is evident in the work of Shrishti Selvam, a 29-year-old surfer who has dedicated herself to creating opportunities for girls and women in Chennai and Tamil Nadu. By establishing Kove Surf & SUP School, she aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for women to learn, practice, and compete.
Facilities and Safety Concerns
However, the journey for these women is not without obstacles. One of the primary challenges is the lack of adequate facilities at the beaches. For instance, at Karikattu Kuppam, women surfers face discomfort due to the absence of changing rooms, proper washrooms, and the presence of garbage on the grass. This not only affects their physical well-being but also creates a sense of unease, as they spend several hours in the water.
"At Karikattu Kuppam, the garbage strewn across the grass makes us uncomfortable; we are pushed to stay in our wet clothes because of no changing rooms, leading to rashes since we surf for four to five hours," Kamali says.
Societal Expectations and Gender Bias
Beyond the physical challenges, women surfers also grapple with societal expectations and gender bias. Devi Ramanathan, another surfer, highlights the beauty standards imposed on women, which can make the decision to spend hours in the sun a defiant act. The comments about skin color and the pressure to conform to beauty norms further complicate their journey.
"The cultural difficulties that come with being a woman and being out in the sun for so long," Devi says. "The comments about skin color are familiar. 'Oh, you know, you’re so dark now,' is something I have heard several times."
Moreover, subtle gender biases persist within the surfing community. Devi observes that male surfers may offer unsolicited advice or try to guide female surfers, assuming they lack the skills. This can hinder their progress, as catching waves is crucial for learning.
The Need for Women Coaches
Another significant gap in the surfing scene is the lack of female coaches. Kamali emphasizes the importance of having women coaches, not only for the current generation but also for the future. She believes that female coaches can provide a safer and more supportive environment, fostering a sense of confidence and empowerment.
"We want women coaches, even if not for us, for the next generation, so they feel safer," Kamali points out.
Shrishti agrees, noting that most surf instructors are from fishing communities, which can make it easier for them to become instructors. However, women surfers often lack exposure to the ocean and are still navigating the safety aspects of the sport.
Progress and Future Outlook
Despite these challenges, progress is evident. The Surfing Federation of India has recognized the importance of increasing women's participation in surfing, and initiatives are underway to address the coaching gap. Arun Vasu, president of the Asian Surfing Federation and the Surfing Federation of India, highlights the federation's efforts in conducting grassroots camps and annual competitions.
"In the last two years, we have been pushing athletes," Vasu says. "The sport is changing; it is growing. I am confident that the sport, particularly women’s participation, will grow significantly over the next three to five years."
For now, the women surfers are making their mark, carving out their own space in the ocean. As Kamali says, "We have the ocean, now we just have to call it our own and settle despite the roadblocks and keep carving ways for challenges to wash away."
In conclusion, the journey of these women surfers is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community. By addressing the challenges of facilities, safety, and societal expectations, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse surfing culture in India.
