"Film 'Spent' reflects economic violence on women, a powerful societal narrative."

How economic violence affects women is a big question and unnoticed by many. It’s sneakier than other types of violence, and it really poses a significant threat to women’s self-esteem and independence. This kind of violence becomes a strong obstacle to women moving forward. This often ignored facet of violence against women takes center stage in the film “Spent.”

Screening of Film 'Spent'

Puneeta Choube, the director of “Spent,” a film exploring the struggles of women facing economic violence in the country, addressed a workshop organized by the Jagjeevan Ram Institute of Studies and Political Research. She introduced, “The film narrates the stories of five women grappling with economic violence in India and was crafted in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University.”

Film 'Spent' Poster

Film “Spent” serves as a powerful narrative that challenges societal norms and serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding the obstacles women face in their pursuit of progress and equality. Narendra Pathak, Director of the Jagjeevan Ram Institute, said, “economic violence impedes women’s freedom, hampers their decision making abilities, and becomes a barrier to escaping degrading situations”. He emphasized the importance of women breaking free from this cycle of economic violence. During the workshop, Nivedita Jha, closely involved in the film, shared insights that the story portrays women of our own society Films like “Spent” serve as a societal mirror, reflecting the prevailing strength of patriarchy in diverse contexts.

Talking in the context of filmmaking she said, “The filmmaking process was a collaborative effort, showcasing the dedication of the entire team in bringing this impactful narrative to life”. Situ Tiwari, a senior journalist, highlighted the eye-opening experience of learning about the severity of economic violence in women’s lives during the film’s production. He said, “During the process of making the film, we learned that economic violence in women’s lives is more dangerous than all other forms of violence combined.” Tiwari again said, “women should be given better opportunities to stand on their own feet and improve their lives.”

Cinematographer Rajesh Raj, a crucial part of the project, discussed the role of the camera in capturing the essence of people’s lives and conveying their experiences through cinematography. He described how one can tell people’s stories through the lens, capturing moments that portray life. “Spent” is more than just a film. It urges society to provide better opportunities for women, allowing them to stand on their own feet. In addition to its compelling narrative, ‘Spent’ sheds light on three distinct forms of economic abuse.

Sabotage, where women are prevented from acquiring financial resources. Exploitation, involving the misuse of resources for the abusers’ gain, including theft. Restriction, which gives limiting utilization of economic resources, such as bank accounts. These dimensions are basically the story of many women. It gives consideration of the complex challenges women face in day to day life