Darjeeling MP Raju Bista meets Gorkha women, stresses vital role of women in society

During the interaction, cultural values and traditional practices that keep the Gorkha identity alive were also discussed. Bista said that women have not only safeguarded traditions but have also helped pass down values of resilience and unity to the younger generation.

LOCAL

8/18/20252 min read

Darjeeling MP Raju Bista on August 17 highlighted the invaluable role women play in the social and cultural fabric of the Darjeeling hills, Siliguri and the Terai region. Speaking after an interaction with Gorkha women from various organisations and institutions, Bista emphasised that women have always been the guiding force in shaping families and communities across the region.

The meeting, held at his residence, brought together Gorkha women leaders and representatives who discussed a wide range of social and cultural issues. According to Bista, the discussion placed a special focus on matters concerning women, their contributions to society, and the challenges they continue to face. “Today, at my residence, I had the opportunity to meet with Gorkha sisters associated with various organisations and institutions from our Darjeeling hills, Siliguri, and Terai region. During this interaction, we discussed our social and cultural issues, with a special focus on matters related to women,” Bista said.

He noted that the North-Eastern region has a distinctive tradition where women hold a central place in both family life and social progress. “It is worth mentioning here that in our society, and in the entire North-Eastern region, women hold a special and immensely important role and unique position in our family and social fabric. Our mothers and sisters have always played a leading role in guiding our society on the path of positivity,” he observed.

During the interaction, cultural values and traditional practices that keep the Gorkha identity alive were also discussed. Bista said that women have not only safeguarded traditions but have also helped pass down values of resilience and unity to the younger generation.

The MP also highlighted the significance of Haritalika Teej, a major festival for women in the Gorkha community. He said the festival is more than a cultural event—it is a celebration of devotion, spirituality, and the bond of sisterhood. “In our culture, the great festival of women—Haritalika Teej—holds special significance. On this occasion, our sisters also invited me to the Teej festival they are organising. For this, I extend my heartfelt thanks to them and convey my best wishes in advance for the success of this sacred religious festival of women,” he added.