The Catalyst Collective

We had the amazing opportunity of interviewing the great Esnala Lahru Banda and this is how it went; 1. Personal Background and Inspiration - Could you share a bit about your journey as a writer and feminist? What inspired you to embrace feminism and advocate for gender equality? - Was there a pivotal moment or experience that shaped your commitment to this cause? Esnala: As a feminist writer, my advocacy began through spoken word poetry platforms. The inspiration came from exhaustion—I grew tired of enduring certain experiences, so I took to the stage. I was already performing in Bittersweet Poetry Shows and began using that platform to share my messaging. My friends and I also organized independent shows centered on conversations we deemed vital to the cause. Over time, I was invited to participate in feminist poetry events, such as the V-Day show in 2018, the Zed Feminists' poetry show, and candlelight vigils with organizations like BAWSO. Alongside this, I joined street mar...

In many societies, polygamy—the practice of one man marrying multiple women—has been historically and legally permitted under certain conditions. Yet, when the reverse is proposed—polyandry, where one woman marries multiple men—the idea is often met with resistance, ridicule, or outright prohibition. This double standard exposes a fundamental hypocrisy in how we legislate relationships. If a legal system permits polygamy, then fairness and equality demand that polyandry must also be legal. Anything less undermines the principles of gender equity, freedom of choice, and cultural diversity. The Historical and Cultural Context Polygamy has existed for centuries in various forms, often tied to religious, economic, or social structures. In some cultures, it was a means of consolidating power, ensuring lineage, or providing for women in societies where men were frequently lost to war. Today, a handful of countries still legally recognize polygamous marriages, though often with restrictions. ...