Conventionally, behind every successful man there is a woman. But when women are breaking gender norms and barriers like never before, mustn’t we pause to consider that the opposite could very well be true too? That there are in fact some good men who have rallied for (their) women by supporting them whenever and however possible? Here, five famous figures talk about the men without whom they wouldn’t be where they are.

Anuradha Koirala, Social activist
I believe I am where I am because of the struggles I have had to face. Had I not had squabbles with my husband, had I not struggled raising my son alone, I would never have come to value hard work and strength. And it is this struggle that bolstered me, uplifted me, and ultimately made me stronger. But, in my professional life, Bishwa Ram Khadka, who I call my brother and my better half, has been of great help especially in the last 24 years. No matter who you are, there will be times when you require moral support and he has been that support system for me. And, you could say, so has my husband because all that I have had to struggle with has only made me stronger and more determined in life.

Deepa Shree Niraula, Comedian/actor, film producer, RJ
I have a lot of men who I want to credit for my success. I work in an industry that runs on teamwork and the collective effort of everyone involved. So, I have learnt to value everyone who is on my team during different projects including the camera directors, directors, hair and makeup artists and costume designers or stylists. If I have to be more specific, I would say my father and Deepak Raj Giri are the ones who have been the most supportive. Had my father not supported my dreams of becoming an actress, I probably wouldn’t have even dared to come to Kathmandu and rent a place of my own to pursue this career. He gave me a push when I needed it the most. And the support Deepak has extended in the past decade or so has taken my career to greater heights. I’m really blessed to have some great men in my life. 

Deeya Maskey, Theater artist, actor, dancer
I credit my mother for a lot of my successes but the man who has been behind me at all times is my husband, Anup Baral. He has been with me from the start of my career as a theater artist and has shown me the ropes regarding how things are done in this industry. In a way, it was his encouragement and support that propelled my career and made me reach where I am today. I consider him to be one of my biggest teachers as well. Beside that, he is also very helpful and considerate. I really couldn’t have chosen a better life partner. When my schedule gets too hectic or I’m tired, he looks after everything that needs to be managed and supports me in every way imaginable.

Erina Tamrakar, Artist
The man behind all that I am today is definitely my father, Hem Lal Tamrakar. He has been an inspiration and he is also my mentor and support system. When I was growing up, he made sure he spent time with me and took me to all these new places. Even today, the memories are fresh and every time I’m creating something new, I find myself thinking back to those times. My dad also supported me when I choose art as my profession even though it was not (and in many ways still isn’t) a conventional career option. He gave me the freedom to put my passion and career before other things that hold women back, especially in Nepal. And for that, I will always be grateful to him.

Shweta Khadka, Actor
You only succeed in life by working hard and taking action yourself. But I would also like to credit all my achievements to teamwork and the chain of people working with me. But the one constant in my life has definitely been my father from whom I take strength and courage whenever I need it. Even though I rely on myself for most things, I often reach out to my father for help. I know he has got my back and that’s a comforting feeling. I also have an elder brother and a younger brother, both of whom have produced my movies and helped me manage my businesses too. When it concerns me, they put in their hundred percent. I’m very grateful to these wonderful men in my life.

 
• gender_norms
 
• breaking_barriers