In Conversation with Author and Philanthropist Trina Kanungo
Talking about Domestic Abuse and Ways to Recover oneself.
Trina Kanungo is an acclaimed writer and distinguished professional, celebrated for her insightful exploration of cultural and national themes. Recognized by the International Women’s Literature Council as one of the Top 11 Personalities, she has made a profound impact on the literary world with her unique voice and narrative depth.
Beyond her literary achievements, Trina is an accomplished professional serving as an Assistant Manager at ECGC Ltd., under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Her expertise extends across academia, literature, and fine arts, reflecting a multifaceted career. She has co-authored numerous anthologies in both English and Bengali, earning accolades such as the Bankim Chandra Chatterjee Kala Samman Award and the Sylvia Plath Memorial Award.
Her dedication to continuous learning is evident in her completion of a certificate course in Macroeconomic Diagnostics from the IMF Institute. A true polymath, Trina is also deeply passionate about yoga, painting, and Indian fine arts, embodying a remarkable blend of creativity and intellect.
Q1) When we talk about Domestic Violence what is the first thought that comes to your mind ?
Ans Abuse of elderly people and children. I might sound biased, but I have seen many practicap cases where mainly these two section of members in a family are mainly victimized.
Q2) Very sadly , a large part of the population just considers physical abuse as abuse , mental health is never given the primary importance . What is your take on this and how do you feel we can get a break through on this ?
Ans:Both are defintely interlinked. If anyone is facing physical torture, it will adversely affect his/her mindset. It is mainly due to lack of awareness that people don’t bother about their mental well being.
Q3) What role do you feel the Government should play or the higher authorities should play in these cases ?
Ans Government can encourage framing stricter laws against these cases, should set up more rehabilitation centers, should encourage more psychologists to come forward and help these victims in the rehab journey.
Q4) There is a thinking which comes in the minds of specially a women that – “They have spent so much time in a relationship and what if it does not work out “. What is your take on this topic?
Ans Every woman should be financially independent, I think, only then this thought -line would become trivial.
Q5) Finally , what role do you think a society and family plays – when it comes to domestic abuse ?
Ans Domestic abuse does not happen just within the core family, it gets amplified by the regressive thinking in the greater family and the society at large. Thus, with a regressive society, domestic abuse can go unreported due to the fear of social stigma. Thus, a progressive society can be a catalyst towards reducing domestic violence through greater awareness and support from the society against abuse.
