Irfana Zargar, a resident of downtown Srinagar, is transforming her community by leading a vital menstrual hygiene campaign. In an interview with rising Kashmir, Irfana speaks about how She provides free sanitary kits in public restrooms across the city, ensuring local women have access to essential hygiene products. Her voluntary work has earned her widespread appreciation for promoting dignity and awareness.
What inspired you to start this mission?
In 2013, after my father passed away, I was overwhelmed with grief. Losing him felt like losing a part of myself. I wanted to honor his memory in a meaningful, lasting way. I started by setting up a water point in Lalchowk, dedicating it to him. This act of remembrance sparked an idea: if I could create something in his honor, perhaps I could address another pressing issue.
How did that idea evolve into your current work?
After the water point, I realized there was a significant need for basic hygiene support in public spaces. I thought about girls whose periods might start unexpectedly while they were out. They would feel embarrassed, fearful of stains, or even harassed due to the myths surrounding menstruation.
Inspired by this, I began creating and distributing small kits from home. These included wet tissues, napkins, pads, and other necessities. I placed them in commercial hubs as an emergency service.
Why are these hygiene kits so important in public places?
When a girl is away from home and her period starts, the lack of accessible sanitary products can lead to humiliation and anxiety. My goal is to dispel the myths that make menstruation a taboo and bring awareness to it. By making sanitary products readily available, we support individual dignity and encourage open conversation about a natural process. This helps change social perceptions and provides comfort and support to women in our community.
What obstacles did you face while launching and growing this initiative?
The journey wasn’t easy. Initially, many people were surprised and doubtful. They couldn’t believe someone with a modest salary as a delivery post worker at SMC could drive such a significant initiative. They wondered how I managed with limited means and why I wasn’t affiliated with a well-known NGO. But I believe if your heart is in it, you can make a difference regardless of resources. Even with a salary of 2000 rupees, I was determined. The support from those who believed in me helped me overcome these challenges.
When did you officially start this mission, and how has it evolved?
I officially began around 2014. Initially, I focused on Lalchowk’s commercial hubs. Over time, I realized the need extended beyond urban areas. I’m now planning to expand into rural villages, where the lack of sanitary facilities is even more acute. It’s a gradual process, but every step counts.
Do you believe your initiative will continue to grow and have a broader impact?
Inshallah, it will grow. I see this as a continuation of our legacy, a way to keep our traditions of care and support alive. Society has perpetuated the myth that menstruation is something to hide. I want to challenge that. By showcasing the importance of openly addressing menstrual health, we reinforce the strength of our community. It’s a step toward complete marital harmony and helps prevent relationship breakdowns. Allah has bestowed upon us women a special blessing, and it’s time we embrace it fully.
How has your family supported you?
My family has been incredibly supportive. My mother and brothers never had any reservations. They encouraged me, saying, “You are doing this for your father, and it is a noble cause. Go ahead and do it wholeheartedly.” Their unwavering support has been a pillar of strength.
What are your future plans?
I plan to open a firm that specifically caters to the needs of disabled girls. I envision a space where they can learn and work with machines, enabling them to earn a living while maintaining their dignity. Many young women fall into depression or contemplate suicide due to unemployment or the stigma of divorce. I want to create opportunities that empower them economically and restore their self-worth. This initiative is about dignity and independence for every woman.
Have you received support from larger organizations or governmental bodies?
To be honest, I haven’t received significant help from established organizations. I chose to move forward on my own, fueled by community support and silent prayers. I believe such initiatives should receive institutional backing, but passion can drive you to succeed without external assistance.
What message would you like to share with the community, especially young women?
My message is that menstruation is not a taboo. Even if society tries to stigmatize it, we must break this barrier. Our faith has bestowed blessings and dignity upon us, as highlighted in the Quran. We must confront our challenges head-on. The most important aspect is to support one another. When women stand together, nothing is impossible. If we can dedicate time to social media, imagine what could be achieved if that time was invested in creating meaningful change. Every little effort counts.
During the conversation, Irfana Zargar demonstrated how personal loss can ignite transformation when we respond with compassion. Her story is a powerful reminder of our resilience and how even the smallest efforts can create meaningful change. Through her initiative, she not only honors her father’s memory but also upholds the dignity of countless women facing daily struggles.
Writer is intern with Rising Kashmir
