Beyond the Surface: Understanding Masculinity from Nichhe Line, Bhatpara Tea Garden

[Nityam Ghosh]

In a recent SALT (Stimulate, Appreciate, Learn, Transfer) dialogue held with the community of Nichhe Line in Bhatpara Tea Garden, profound inner strengths of the community emerged. The participants revealed a rich tapestry of qualities that reflect the true essence of their lives and identities.

Inner Strengths Revealed

During the conversation, several admirable qualities were highlighted by the community members:

Supportive nature

Caring attitude toward everyone

Kindness and sensitivity

Strong problem-solving ability

Selflessness in spirit

A deep sense of humanity and brotherhood

These qualities clearly show that amid their daily struggles, a strong current of inner power flows within the community, shaping their worldview and actions.

Understanding ‘Man’: What Masculinity Means Here

Question 1: When you hear the word ‘man,’ what comes to your mind?

The community members shared that the first image that comes to their mind when they hear the word “man” is that of their father. The way their fathers managed family life, progressed despite hardships, and stood as pillars of strength deeply influences their understanding of manhood.

In their view, a real man is:

Always ready to help others, no matter the time of day, even at midnight.

One who takes responsibility for the family—carrying the household’s burdens and caring for loved ones with affection.

A person who supports his family, embodies cultured behavior, and is loved and respected by all.

This holistic view blends care, responsibility, and respect as the true markers of masculinity.

Hidden Feelings and Silent Struggles

Question 2: What are some things that make you feel like a man but you hesitate to share with others?

The dialogue opened a window into the quiet, often unspoken experiences of men in the community. Several personal stories surfaced:

One person shared his deep wish to build his own house, a dream yet unfulfilled, which weighs on him silently.

Another expressed sorrow over not being able to fully meet the wishes of his children due to low income.

A member shared guilt and stress over borrowing money to support family needs and his inability to repay it yet.

These narratives reveal a common pattern: men carrying heavy familial burdens, yet hesitating to share their struggles, out of discomfort or social expectations.

As a facilitator, the dialogue emphasized the importance of allowing men these safe spaces to express vulnerabilities often hidden beneath the surface.

Reflections on the Conversation

What went well?

Community members felt a sense of relief and lightness after sharing their hidden burdens. They realized that concealing pain and sorrow harms not just the heart, but the body as well. By expressing difficulties openly, their minds felt lighter, and their morale grew stronger.

There was a unanimous agreement that if such dialogues continue regularly, the community’s collective health, happiness, and mutual support would deepen significantly.

What could be better?

The community suggested that the conversations included only a few members this time. They expressed hope for more widespread participation in future dialogues to enhance the impact, usefulness, and reach of these meaningful discussions.

Conclusion

The SALT dialogue on masculinity in Nichhe Line, Bhatpara Tea Garden, revealed that true strength lies not just in external roles but in inner qualities of care, responsibility, and openness. By fostering safe platforms for sharing and listening, communities can nurture healthier expressions of masculinity and collective well-being. The ongoing process promises a more supportive, understanding, and empowered future for all.

[Shahrukh Atpade]

This SALT conversation at Bhatpara Tea Garden has revealed a new vision of masculinity. As the burden of hidden emotions and responsibilities in the community was expressed, they found lightness and strength. This experience shows that true strength lies not in external performance alone but in caring, responsibility and openness. Thank you Nityam for writing a very beautiful blog.