Patriarchy looms at every corner, even when we don't realise it

Being a woman in a patriarchal society is not easy. We work hard at work, yet it's our male colleagues who get the promotion. Women work hard at the office--as much as their husbands--yet they are the ones expected to after office hours. 

With time we have learnt to ignore the injustice. Hell, we even try to pretend it's normal. However, patriarchy has a way to creeping up in places you least expect it to. At the restaurant, on the streets--patriarchy looms at every nook and corner. Don't believe us? Here, five instances when women are subjected to abject patriarchy. And they have no clue about it.  

When It Comes to Paying the Bill
You are out dining with your partner, and after you finish your meal, you ask for the cheque. But, when the attendant brings you the bill, he hands it to your man. It happens every time, now, doesn't it? Well, you are not alone. This probably has happened to every woman.

Like really, what's the psychology behind it? Aren't women capable of paying? The answer to this question is pretty simple: it's a deeply-cultivated thought process.

It's always the man, who is seen as the breadwinner in the family. But, we have evolved--haven't we? Women earn and they can pay bills too. However, the patriarchal mindset refuses to accept this paradigm shift.

Also read: This Facebook post is the only thing you need to read about #NotAllMen

Haww! How Can a Woman Drink?
It's no secret that women, who enjoy alcohol, are harshly judged by the society. Drinking is a man's game, and women are belittled for disrupting the moral code. People have a hard time accepting that women like drinking. Even the waiters, who are used to serving liquor in restaurants just can't seem to get over the fact.

Don't believe us? Try ordering a drink when you are in company of a man. You will notice that alcohol will be placed in front of him, even if it's your order.

You Are a Woman. You Better Sit Down
You might have noticed that men usually offer their seats to women in public transport, even if they are healthy and can survive the ride.

You might call it good manners, but in reality--the gesture stems from good old patriarchy. You are a woman, so you are automatically considered the weaker sex. Even middle-aged uncles respectfully vacate their seats because according to them, you can't take the strain.

Really ladies, are you that frail?

So, You are Married. Where's Your Mangalsutra?
Marriage marks the union of two people. It's an amalgamation of two hearts. However, in India women are required to turn into a Christmas tree after tying the knot. They are asked to embellish themselves with a mangalsutra, sindoor, chooda, and what not.

Those, who don't want to fall prey to age-old traditions, are harassed incessantly by the nagging aunties and neighbours. Some even go to the extent of questioning your feelings towards your husband.

Let's just get one thing straight: these trinkets don't represent love. They just signify that now you are owned by somebody. A patriarchal concept, of course.

What Would a Woman Know of Finance?
Decisions involving finance and property are often taken by the men in the family and women rarely have a say in it. You might want to add your two cents to the discussion, but you no one will ask for your opinion.

Ever wondered why? As women, we are not expected to have a knack for things involving money. Yes, we are expected to spend it, but the know-how of it is a man's business alone.