Kanpur (UP): In a striking display of regressive rhetoric overshadowing women’s academic brilliance, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has sparked widespread criticism by telling female graduates to focus on becoming "expert mothers" before aiming for top-tier careers like the civil services.

Speaking at the 41st convocation of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU), the Governor chose a platform meant for celebrating modern empowerment to instead reinforce traditional gender roles. Patel explicitly stated that a woman’s professional triumphs must not compromise her domestic obligations, placing the burden of family values and character-building squarely on female shoulders.

"Whether you become an IAS officer or a teacher, first become an expert mother. Everyone should know how to cook the food prepared at home," Patel declared, reducing the ambitions of highly qualified young women to domestic management.

While she payed lip service to the idea of women continuing their education after marriage and contributing to nation-building, her speech firmly handcuffed female intellect to kitchen counters and nursery rooms.

The ultimate irony: Women sweep 82% of medals

The Governor’s patronising lecture on domestic duties stood in stark, almost farcical contrast to the reality of the day's achievements. The convocation was, by all objective measures, a resounding triumph for young women, who thoroughly outshone their male peers.

Of the 1,07,713 students who graduated, women captured a staggering 82 per cent of the academic medals. Yet, instead of receiving unreserved commendation for breaking barriers, these top achievers were reminded that their primary value lies in being "expert" homemakers.

In a nod to administrative digitisation amidst the cultural regression, Patel also launched the digital distribution of degree certificates via DigiLocker, allowing the massive cohort of over 1.07 lakh graduates to access their credentials electronically.