The Indian Women’s Association (IWA) in Qatar stands as a premier social, cultural, and charitable organisation committed to uplifting the Indian community, particularly Indian women, residing in Qatar.
Established under the auspices of the Indian Cultural Center (ICC) at the Embassy of India, IWA began its journey in 1986. Over the years, it has evolved into a prominent institution, known for its contributions to community welfare, cultural preservation, and advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.
With a strong membership of 160 women, IWA continues to provide a vibrant platform for its members to engage in various activities. The association’s mission revolves around fostering a sense of unity and support for Indian women, enabling them to grow both personally and professionally.
The association’s leadership plays a crucial role in spearheading initiatives that address women’s health, education, and social welfare.
IWA Executive Committee: Leading the Charge
The leadership of the Indian Women’s Association is composed of dedicated and passionate individuals who work tirelessly to ensure the success and growth of the organisation.
At the helm is Priya Bhedi, who serves as the President. Priya took on this significant role in early 2023 and since then, has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Indian women in Qatar.
Other key members of the IWA Executive Committee include:
- Monika Bhatnagar, Vice-President
- Seema Rodrigues, General Secretary
- Anjana Pramod, Treasurer
- Shibika Wankhede, Cultural Director
- Sunita Chaturvedi, Advisory Committee Member
Each of these individuals plays a vital role in driving the association’s activities forward, from cultural events to health initiatives, ensuring IWA remains an active and supportive community for women in Qatar.
Priya Bhedi: A Leader with Vision
As the President of the Indian Women’s Association, Priya Bhedi’s leadership has had a transformative impact on the organization and its members. She has used her platform to address several key issues affecting women, including healthcare, education, and mental health. Under Priya’s guidance, IWA has become a strong advocate for women’s health, launching campaigns and workshops focused on early detection of diseases such as breast cancer. These initiatives have provided women with crucial knowledge, enabling them to take charge of their health and well-being.
In addition to health advocacy, Priya has emphasized the importance of educational programs that equip women with the skills needed to enhance their independence and employability. These programs aim to empower women in Qatar, helping them grow both professionally and personally. Her leadership has cultivated an environment of inclusivity, where women from all walks of life feel encouraged and supported to achieve their dreams.
Priya’s commitment extends beyond health and education. She has worked diligently to foster a strong sense of community within IWA, ensuring that members can connect, share their experiences, and support one another. Her leadership has not only helped raise awareness on critical issues but also expanded IWA’s outreach, strengthening its influence within the Indian community in Qatar.
Mission and Vision of IWA
The mission of the Indian Women’s Association is deeply rooted in the values of womanhood and the spirit of femininity, which are celebrated within the framework of Indian culture and heritage. IWA’s aim is to create opportunities for Indian women in Qatar, offering them a platform to come together, share experiences, and support one another in their personal and professional endeavors.
IWA envisions becoming the largest expatriate community in Qatar, providing equal opportunities for all its members. The association strives to expand its activities, ensuring that every woman can access resources that promote her growth, well-being, and empowerment. Through its various initiatives, IWA aims to foster an environment where women can thrive and contribute positively to society.
IWA’s Contribution to Cultural Preservation and Community Building
IWA has played an essential role in preserving Indian culture in Qatar, hosting various cultural events that allow members to celebrate and showcase their rich heritage. One of the key events organized by IWA is the Dandiya Night, an event that brings the community together through music, dance, and fun. The Dandiya Night, held annually, has become a significant cultural celebration in Qatar, attracting enthusiastic participants who come dressed in traditional attire to celebrate the occasion.
A Glimpse into Dandiya Night Celebrations
On October 17, IWA hosted its vibrant Dandiya Night at the Time Rako Hotel, marking a memorable evening for the Indian community. The event was a blend of traditional Indian music, lively dance, and cultural festivities. Attendees participated in the energetic Dandiya and Garba dances, where they moved in circles with colorful dandiya sticks in hand. The rhythmic beats of the music filled the air, creating a festive and joyous atmosphere.
A Dandiya competition was organized as part of the celebration, where participants showcased their creativity and dancing skills. Prizes were awarded for the best dancers and the most striking costumes, adding an element of friendly competition to the evening. The event also featured an array of traditional Indian snacks and refreshments, which transported attendees back to India, adding an authentic touch to the celebration.
During the event, Priya Bhedi, the IWA President, emphasized the importance of such cultural gatherings in strengthening community bonds. She shared how these events help preserve traditional customs, keeping the rich cultural heritage of India alive in a diverse environment like Qatar. The success of the Dandiya Night was evident in the joy and appreciation expressed by the attendees, who were delighted by the organization and the spirit of the event.
Promoting Women’s Health and Wellness
IWA’s commitment to women’s well-being extends beyond cultural activities. The association has collaborated with healthcare organizations to address women’s health concerns in a comprehensive manner. A notable initiative was the health camp organized in collaboration with KIMS Medical Center, which focused on promoting women’s health and wellness.
Health Camp and Yoga Session
The health camp, held at a local venue, brought together healthcare professionals and community members to discuss important health topics and provide practical advice. Dr. Mahesh Reddy Vurukili, an orthopaedist, spoke about the importance of bone health, while Dr. Jerry Anthony, a psychiatrist, focused on mental health and well-being. Additionally, Dr. Shoba Justus Victoria, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, addressed the critical topic of cervical cancer awareness.
In conjunction with these informative sessions, a yoga session was conducted by Nisha Agarwal, designed to promote physical fitness and mental relaxation. The yoga session emphasized breathing exercises and stretches aimed at enhancing overall well-being. Participants were encouraged to integrate yoga into their daily routines for better physical and mental health.
The event provided valuable information and advice on maintaining good health, empowering women to take proactive steps towards their wellness. It was a successful initiative that highlighted IWA’s dedication to supporting women’s health in every aspect.
Celebrating Hindi Diwas and Women’s Empowerment
Another remarkable event organized by IWA was the Hindi Diwas celebration, held on 14th September. Hindi Diwas is celebrated annually in India to mark the adoption of Hindi as the official language of the country. The IWA’s celebration of this day not only honored the linguistic richness of Hindi but also emphasized the role of women in society and their contributions to social, economic, and cultural development.
During the event, IWA President Priya Bhedi highlighted the importance of Hindi as a mother tongue and its role in uniting women across cultural boundaries. She also spoke about the association’s commitment to women’s empowerment, stating that empowering women through education, advocacy, and leadership is essential for creating a society where women can thrive.
The Hindi Diwas celebration was an opportunity to reflect on the role of women in India and around the world. It also served as a reminder of the power of language and culture in promoting social change and gender equality. Through such events, IWA aims to continue fostering an environment where women feel supported, valued, and empowered.
Looking to the Future
The Indian Women’s Association (IWA) Qatar has consistently proven its dedication to the community by organizing events that celebrate culture, promote health, and advocate for women’s rights. Under the leadership of Priya Bhedi and the hard work of the Executive Committee, IWA has established itself as a cornerstone of support for Indian women in Qatar.
Looking to the future, IWA aims to expand its reach and impact, continuously striving to create opportunities for women to grow personally, professionally, and socially. Through educational programs, healthcare initiatives, cultural events, and advocacy efforts, IWA is committed to empowering women and ensuring they have the tools and support they need to lead fulfilling and successful lives.
To Conclude
The Indian Women’s Association (IWA) Qatar stands as a beacon of hope, empowerment, and community spirit for Indian women in Qatar. Through its various initiatives, IWA has been able to create a platform for women to express themselves, support each other, and celebrate their culture and heritage. The leadership of Priya Bhedi and the dedication of the IWA Executive Committee have been pivotal in making IWA a respected organization within the Indian community.
As IWA continues to grow, it will undoubtedly continue to make significant contributions to the social, cultural, and welfare aspects of the community, ensuring that Indian women in Qatar have the resources and opportunities to thrive in every aspect of their lives.
