VD Satheesan's 'teach daughters-in-law traditional cooking' remark sparks ‘sexism’ row

Chengannur: Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan has come under criticism on social media over remarks suggesting that mothers should pass on traditional cooking practices to their sons' wives. Critics have termed the comments sexist and reflects gender stereotypes.

The Chief Minister made the remarks while inaugurating the 14th Pampa Literary Festival at the D Charlie Pampa Reminiscence venue in Chengannur.

"Everything traditional, including art, must be preserved. The previous generations passed these on to us, but today no one is passing them to the next generation. I often complain to some mothers. They prepare special dishes but do not teach their children how to make them. They should at least explain the uniqueness of those dishes to their children or to the woman who comes into the family as their son's wife," Satheesan said.

The comments triggered criticism on social media, with many arguing that they reinforce the notion that cooking is primarily the responsibility of women.

Speaking at the event, Satheesan also stressed the importance of preserving culture and literature.

"It is impossible to imagine a world without art, music, reading and writing. Writers and artists play a major role in passing on cultural values and traditions to future generations. Today, everyone is becoming increasingly self-centred, forgetting that human beings are social creatures. Throughout human evolution, communities have helped societies overcome hardships and suffering. It is from such collective experiences that art and literature emerged. Artists, writers and literary figures perform the noble task of strengthening these bonds and leading us into worlds of imagination. Art, music and writing enrich the foundations of our social and family life," he said.

The remarks have sparked widespread debate online.

Former Education Minister V Sivankutty criticised the statement in a Facebook post, writing: "We revised school textbooks to teach that household chores should be shared equally by men and women. And yet...!!"

Writer Saradakkutty also reacted sharply on Facebook, posting: "No wonder he remained silent and avoided showing his face after witnessing the determination of the young women protesting at Jantar Mantar. This is as far as the journey has come."