Thiruvananthapuram: The national conference of the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) began on Friday. Activist and classical dancer Mallika Sarabhai inaugurated the national conference, which has been scheduled from January 6 to 9 in Thiruvananthapuram.

Mallika Sarabhai opined that the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The world is one family) is under strain in contemporary society. She urged to teach conscience for justice and dignity in families. A world that we dream of could not be realised if our personal life and political views do not move in the same direction, she said.

Politburo member Brinda Karat, Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara's daughter Aleida Guevara, and activist Teesta Setalvad participated in the inaugural ceremony presided over by AIDWA president Malini Bhattacharya.