I was part of a vivid group Conversation a few days back. Someone initiated the topic of managing monthly budgets when a male participant commented about how comfortable life was for earning single Women. “Arre aap ladkiyon ka kya hai? Kharcha to sirf kapdo wapdon ka hai. Baki to savings hi hai. Hume sau cheezon ke like sochna padta hai” (Loosely translated as “Its so comfortable for you girls. The only expenses to be borne are those of personal shopping.  We (Men) have to plan and budget for hundred expenses”. )

I cringed inside and wanted to give a befitting reply. Wanted to tell him that I contribute financially to the house just like my brother. Wanted to tell him there are days when I have broken sleep worrying about how best I can balance between looking after my parents well and meeting my expenses.
But I eventually decided against replying back and ended the conversation with a forced smile.
This wasn’t some random statement. It had been spoken around me several times in past. An incorrect notion that is popularly believed. 

Most working women don’t talk about it much, but here’s the truth. They either contribute directly into the household and/or have monthly savings adding up for their parents’ future.  Women understand and respect gender equality everywhere – this includes financially supporting their family and aging parents.

Wish these basic perceptions change for a happier co-existing ecosystem.