Why did I embark on the creation of the Fam Palab podcast?
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In Mauritius, women often find themselves relegated to the periphery of public discourse — a silence that resonates profoundly, especially among younger generations forging their identities.
Amidst the confines of established social and cultural norms, the voices of young Mauritian women seldom echo personal or professional narratives diverging from the expected trajectory.
Professionally, they encounter the glass ceiling; personally, they navigate the intricate balance between motherhood and career aspirations. They confront the pressures of conforming to societal expectations, negotiating conflicting signals within their cultural milieu, and adhering to standardized family obligations—all while grappling with the nuances of cultural identity and their visibility in public spheres.
Through candid dialogues with resilient and inspiring women, this podcast series endeavors to unravel these complexities. "Fam palab" is an insult in Mauritian creole that stereotypes women as always gossiping with each other.
By using this insult as its title, this podcast help us deconstruct our prejudices and reconsider the myriad challenges confronting Mauritian women today and the collective journey that lies ahead.
So, Fam Palab...
Because life unfolds not as a straightforward highway, but rather as a mosaic of paths— each choice, detour, dead end, and shortcut contributing to its richness and intrigue. This is a deeply personal journey, shaped by the contours of our inner landscapes.
Because I yearn to surround myself with women, to hear their stories of choice, doubt, and audacity.
Because I believe fervently in the necessity of creating a space where diverse narratives can thrive—where alternative ways of embodying womanhood can find expression and where they can enjoy the freedom to articulate their experiences in their own authentic voices.
Fam Palab, because we all transcend the confines of traditional labels and expectations.
Fam palab, because we are infinitely more than that!
Though Vijaya initially aspired to explore the world as a geographer, fate steered her towards history. She has since become a dedicated explorer of the past, revealing that the journey to discovering new worlds can begin by simply opening a wardrobe door.
She candidly shares with us the pivotal role chance has played in shaping her life—being in the right place at the right time, and the transformative power of saying yes to unexpected opportunities. Vijaya delves into her experiences in 1980s Mauritius, recounting the constrained lives of women governed by stringent rules: curfews restricting outings after 6 p.m., and workplace regulations against wearing bold red lipstick. She exposes the stark absence of women in Mauritius's official history, a narrative predominantly authored by and for men.
In this episode, we talk about what it means to be Mauritian, our difficulty in accepting our mixed identities. Family narratives spill over rigid cultural compartments. A Hindu and Muslim child learning Mandarin in class. Our failing school system.
By unveiling the shadows of our past and relentlessly continuing her quest, Vijaya ultimately allows us to find ourselves.
Episode in French
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During her conversation with Shirin Gunny, Asha unravels the thread of her years, revealing how a small village can encompass the vast expanse of a life. In the face of the familiar crumbling and the expected yielding, where do we summon the resolve to forge ahead? How do we step "outside" — beyond the confines of our homes, beyond the confines of our selves — when shaken by a stark upheaval?
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In her exchange with Shirin Gunny, Asha unfurls the tapestry of her years, With unguarded honesty, Asha confides in us about her four daughters, imparting to them the enduring counsel: "remain true to yourself." She recounts the struggles she confronted, grappling with maternal anxieties and societal judgments, thereby charting a pioneering course. She unveils the mysteries of her name, infused with aspirations akin to the fervent prayer that steers her path. When existence weighs too heavily, she invokes the butterfly upon her shoulder, its delicate wings brushing against her, a fleeting touch of buoyancy. And amidst the blossoming flora of her garden, her spirit rises, intertwining with the beauty that surrounds her.
Episode in French and Mauritian Creole.
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This podcast is produced by Lepok Studio, thanks to the financial support of the French Embassy in Mauritius.
Series of 8 episodes produced from August 2021 to June 2022.
Director : Shakti Callikan
This podcast is available on the following platforms:
