I have often wondered why the self-proclaimed progressive woman in the urban Indian setting thinks that donning the mangalsutra (ornament worn by Hindu women to signify marital status) is a regressive practice, but the big rock on the ring finger is not only acceptable, but highly coveted.

Be it the practice of name-changing or wearing an ornament, I have found merit and solace in rejecting the symbols of marital status, especially as a woman.

However, the other day, as I writhed in discomfort in a public space, upon being stared at continuously, I wondered what I could do. In the absence of a verifiable or tangible act of harassment, there are few means of resistance!

That’s when I thought of how the wedding ring could, at least in some scenarios, be used as a weak weapon of resistance, whether or not one is actually married.

In no way am I suggesting that this is the answer to the myriad ways in which our privacy and sense of being is repeatedly violated, both at home and in public spaces. It is as helpless a stance as segregating the all-women’s coach in the metro! Nonetheless, the thought crossed my mind and was summarily dismissed.