Kristine Mox

HDFS 892 Growing Up Global

Michigan State University

Burton, Mark (Executive Producer), & Mehta, Deepa (Director). (2005). Water [Motion picture]. Canada, India: Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Synopsis

• Set in 1930s India.• Chuyia is an 8-year-old widow who is sent to

live in a home with other Hindu widows.• Chuyia is a typical child—speaking honestly,

which forces the others to “confront their faith and society’s prejudices.”

• Simultaneously, Mahatma Ghandi is fighting for India’s independence and civil rights.

Cultural Context

• According to Hindu scripture, minor girls are allowed to marry.

• When a husband dies, women and girls must either die as well, or be removed from society.

• Women had few civil rights: no access to education, work, or family.

• There were no economic options except for marriage.

Key Talking Points

• Principles and Goals for Positive Youth Development (from lecture):– Schooling– Health– Transition to work– Transition to citizenship– Transition to marriage– Transition to parenthood

Recommended for Positive Youth Development Professionals?

Yes!Inspires discussion about culture, gender, and

religion.Encourages professionals to consider

contributing factors to youth development in a multi-cultural society.