Buying at a unknown place - stereotype

7 November 2015

Being a psychologist, I cannot ignore the obvious stereotypes associated with a girl traveling alone. I maintained my truthful position most of the times. It is easy to do so in the company of those who are educated. However, I took advantage of the stereotypes people hold to protect myself with the shield of an unavoidable lie.

Those who know me well know that I don't lie. I speak the truth. However, I learned on this trip that it is important to lie sometimes.

Now, I am going to write about a very funny experience I had in Kolkata, West Bengal. I needed to buy a luggage bag -- a big one. Let's say, huge. I was leaving for a trip to Sunderban the next day. So, I asked around, searched online, and decided to roam around on foot and buy a good luggage bag. I started walking and continued my survey for almost an hour and a half. I also bought some juice packets. As the standard breakfast in Kolkata is Puri Bhaji or Mudi (Puffed rice) and I wanted to have something light and energetic, I went for juice. So, back to my narrative about buying a luggage bag.

After my survey, I decided to buy at a VIP showroom as I would be able to  carry out the maintaining bit easily in Mumbai. I chose the bag I thought would be able to contain my luggage. I was using my debit card to be on the safer side. I told the person in charge that I need to check if the bag would be able to contain all my stuff. He was a little hesitant. After a few seconds, he said, "Take the bag, try out, and then come back for getting the warranty card. Because once the warranty card is issued, it will be impossible to exchange the bag. I agreed.

He was now comfortable talking with me. He started speaking, "Ma'am, no girl comes alone to shop a bag. Sometimes, two boys may come to have a look around. But, ladies are always accompanied by someone. How come ...?" He was obviously fumbling to ask why on earth was I shopping for the bag alone. I told him that I was traveling and there was some problem with the bag I was carrying. I told him in brief about my trip so far. He was astonished. He told me that it is really brave and admirable that I am traveling alone. He actually gave me his number and asked me to call him if I need anything.

I never thought that it would be such a big deal for people that I am traveling alone. I could actually sense worry in peoples' tone. I felt that as long as people are able to care for someone completely strange, it's safe for girls to travel alone.

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