Exploring Masculinity: A Heartfelt Dialogue with Youths in Bhatpara B.T.G Basa Line Area

[Nityam Ghosh]

Date: 12 September 2025

Place: Bhatpara B.T. Garden, Basa Line Area

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with two young men from the Basa Line area of Bhatpara B.T. Garden to talk about an often-discussed yet deeply personal theme—masculinity. Approaching this conversation through the SALT process—where listening attentively and asking open-ended questions are key—I aimed to truly understand their thoughts, experiences, and emotions.

What Does Being a Man Mean?

I began by asking them a simple but profound question: “When you hear the word man, what comes to your mind?” The youths thoughtfully reflected and shared their insights:

A true man is one whose heart is kind and sensitive.

Standing by others during tough times defines real manhood.

A positive and righteous mindset gives a person greatness.

Hard work is the foundation of a man’s identity.

Responsibility towards family is a man's sacred duty.

Manhood means supporting not only oneself but also one’s loved ones.

A balance of sensitivity and endurance is essential.

Guiding family and society rightly is a man’s role.

Strength is not just physical but mental and emotional too.

Life’s decisions should be forged with honesty and truthfulness.

These reflections reveal that, to these young men, being a real man isn’t just about physical toughness but about responsibility, endurance, and moral strength.

Hidden Struggles and Silent Strength

Next, I asked a more intimate question: “What are the things that make you feel like a man, but you hesitate to share with others?” Their responses were moving and candid.

One shared how his family’s financial hardships hold him back from expressing even simple desires. Knowing that every penny goes towards feeding the family and his unwell mother’s treatment, he carries a silent burden but has never sought help or sympathy.

The other recounted his mother’s heartfelt advice: “Save money so that you never have to beg anyone.” She also told him, “Even if I die, no one should have to ask for money for my shroud.” This advice struck a deep chord within him, a sacred vow of self-reliance and sacrifice he had never shared with anyone.

From these stories, it’s clear that masculinity for them embodies sacrifice, responsibility, and an unwavering spirit of self-control.

Reflection and Hope: The Impact of Dialogue

To conclude, I invited them to share their thoughts about our conversation. Both expressed a feeling of lightness and happiness, having finally voiced emotions they had long kept bottled inside. They shared that they often hide their sadness behind smiles, hoping to inspire others to face challenges courageously.

When asked what could be improved, one suggested addressing the issues discussed through tangible support. The other hoped for such meaningful conversations to take place in larger groups, including four or five youths, to foster a supportive community dialogue.

This encounter deepened my understanding of modern masculinity as seen through the eyes of young men living in challenging circumstances. It taught me that true strength lies not in silence but in sharing, in kindness balanced with responsibility, and in enduring hardships with hope.

Conversations like these are vital—they remind us to look beyond stereotypes and listen deeply to the voices often unheard. They pave the way for healing, understanding, and collective growth.

If more dialogues are held, especially in group settings, they could become powerful platforms for youth to express, support, and uplift each other while redefining what it truly means to be a man today.

This blog aims to honor the experiences shared by these courageous young men and to inspire more open conversations about masculinity that embrace both heart and strength.

[Rituu B. Nanda]

What have you learned as a SALT facilitator?