Is India safe for women? - My personal experience living in India as foreign girl

[@alicetopel6645]

I love India 🇮🇳 & I agree with Johanna. Some of the best 🥳experiences of my life & the way I’ve been treated have been in India, but also the worst 😕 I strongly agree that having conversations across cultures is very important. Eve teasing is demeaning it makes it out to be something innocent & frivolous…which it is not- please define it for what it is sexual assault.Many assumed I drank, I do not drink. I too wore a ‘wedding ring’ though thinking I’ll be better applying sindoor next time🤔. Also, I feel because I’m a white westerner I’m seen as less than Indian women, because they don’t know me I must be like Bollywood white women shown without morals, sleep around, arm candy with nothing to contribute. I made sure I had some appreciation about factual info (not newspapers or media) on women in India & made sure I was dressed appropriately. I feel the problems I encountered were based on misunderstanding the western society. I was sexually assaulted (raped actually) somewhere I’d been visiting over a few weeks that friends visited regularly & one female experienced traveller worked. A few including this experienced traveller said felt safe & they’d had clothes on reiki treatments. Towards the end of my time there & feeling this was a good place I decided to have a fully clothed distance reiki treatment- this turned into rape, being in an energetically relaxed state I was paralysed & shocked. I spent a meditation week in India 🇮🇳 which was good, safe space & spent the week single sex dorms but mixed workshops during the day we got to know each other. I was in India for better understanding of certain aspects of Hinduism, relationship was definitely not on my mind. One guy was quite persistent, I gave him no signals that I was wanting relationship, but we chatted a few times & he’d asked to be my partner on a few of the exercises. I asked westerners & Indians alike on the workshop what they thought of this guy, he held a responsible position with the workshop organisers as assistant & was a tour guide running exclusive tours so held responsibility& positions of trust. Afterwards I was travelling for a few weeks & he invited me to visit him at the end of my stay, saying he’d cook for me. I was particularly aware of potential problems posed to women problems in India, I asked as many people I could if he was safe to be around. He’d also mentioned he had a sister, spoke fluent English, was intelligent & educated, told me a bit about some of the interesting experiences he’d had leading a tour with a mother & daughter; he seemed aware & concerned about women. Everyone said they felt he was ok, so I decided to meet up & it was fine. There felt a powerful connection, though I’d put this to one side to make a relational decision which seemed a good choice. It was such a powerful connection I decided to return a month later to see if it’s something that could work. I made sure I was travelling with focus on things I liked about India culture so it wasn’t just for him. As he was leading tours, I asked if he wanted to meet up again, he said yes, & we figured out a time to meet. We spent a few days together, & it felt like special time, confirming what I felt. Valentine’s day he took me out for a meal (I was so nervous much of the time I could hardly speak🙈)& walked in the park - he kept wanting to hold my hand which I felt uncomfortable with because of social customs but also I didn’t want to be his novelty experience of being rebellious taking a western girl out on a date- I’m a human being, not a trophy or exotic prize. I returned home to UK & emailed as I’d done before, his response was slow but I figured he was still touring. I started to get a sinking feeling & decided to ask directly what was it he wanted, & this was significant for me. He gave some vague response & eventually ghosted me. This was partly what contributed to me having a nervous breakdown 8 months later, I felt/feel confused, used & betrayed. I still don’t really understand what happened… My message is, please think about what you’re doing, I didn’t know much then about Indian traditions re relationships, talk to the person about it, then they can change/fix it, why treat others with less standards? If it’s not going to work out because your family won’t accept it, don’t pursue someone. Don’t use the fact they’re from another country as a reason to exploit/wash your hands & cut connections if it becomes ‘inconvenient’ for you. Communicate & be open, especially to discussing any misunderstandings around culture. If someone isn’t from your culture, please treat them as you’d wish your family/yourself to be treated. They’re not some opportunity to be had or taken advantage of. Treat others the way that speaks about India’s dignity & example diversity is respected as multifaceted jewel. Foreigners are people too, they have feelings, don’t assume that you know people because of what you’ve read in the media or think you know from films & cultural prejudice. See the person & not the projection.🙏 Positive points!✨ I also met some really wonderful & genuine people. I was shown genuine kindness, consideration & concern. I learnt so much it’s inspired me to take Vedic Maths course, currently learning Sanskrit & taking further courses chanting & interpreting yoga sutras as well as further self study of Hinduism, Indian history & culture. I’m still recovering from the breakdown 3years later but when I am fully recovered I hope to return to India & contribute some small part to the vast wisdom & family that is India 🇮🇳🙏✨

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you for sharing your experience so extensively! It can be so terrifying to talk about these things publically, but hopefully by doing so we can change things for the better. I actually have a similar experience with these 'alternative treatments' here, where the practisioner tried to take advantage of me. I don't always remember it anymore because I usually try to block it out of my mind. I hope it's not a very common thing, because I find the treatments interesting at least. But I personally haven't been that open to trying them anymore. I'm so happy your experience hasn't tainted your feelings about India completely

[@alicetopel6645]

@@JohannaNorth I felt a need to write quite an essay, as it turns out🙈... Like you i'm curious & generally open, & find I was met with similar curiosity when I was in India. I have good male friends in UK, & struggled with the gender segregation, I'm much more used to having open dialogue & sharing in adventures as equal alongside men rather than having men as chaperone protection - that took some adjusting, I like to chat & learn but think genuine intrigue is interpreted as flirting & sexual?!? It's just different... The sense of family in India is very special & I appreciate the ingenuity in the everyday things. I'm not that open to treatments unless India felt very intense experience of extremes but very alive, I think there are good & bad things whatever the country. I think the not so good experiences revolve around ignorance & misunderstanding as unfortunate as they might be. Much to learn both ways...living in fear keeps my world small & doesn't benefit anybody, so as long as I am able I will make sensible efforts to be out there; a lesson in itself. Because of India I not only have greater depth & breadth of appreciation for my own culture but also many other things. You're channel keeps the dream alive in the meantime😊🙏✨

[@harimadhavan1712]

That's a horrible experience that you went through and I am upset seeing what Johanna had happen to her also. I am brought up in the West, so my attitude is different, but I am aware what some women have experienced in India. I hope my daughter never has the problems that you both experienced. We're both your experiences in North India or Kerala?

[@alicetopel6645]

@@harimadhavan1712 **thank you** for your kind words. It was a mixed experience, so yes it was unpleasant & I do feel upset, especially the betrayal by people I trusted but also I have some of the best experiences of my life✨ I appreciate there is some divide between North & South, & wouldn't want to fuel the rift!🙈 Hinduism, like all faiths, teaches respect, arguably a greater presence of the feminine, even if a person is atheist, the principle behind all is the same, acceptance, respect for fellow beings & love for harmonious peace-filled existence. One would expect India to have the least difficulties for women, yet why does it share in the worldwide dis-ease where exploitation by men exists as much as anywhere else? there is awareness for daughters, mothers & sisters but what about other women by extension as daughters, mothers & sisters? IMO protection isn't the answer because it deflects responsibility & accountability from the abuser & society & makes it the individual problem of the abused ... these are reaI issues requiring practical awareness & consideration at personal & social level. I think it's really important different cultures have the chance to engage & question each other, learn new ways &perspectives, it's still possible to respectfully disagree & it enriches rather than destroying or subtracting (prevalent misunderstanding re purity of belief, bloodline etc), when someone or something is familiar & understood it makes it harder to harm, creating opportunity for understanding, appreciation & acceptance. I'm not sure it matters where you're brought up in the world, fear via racism, sexism, prejudice & xenophobia etc are traits of human nature, as are kindness, empathy, compassion & the capacity to love. It's easier to blame & shame when lacking clarity & experience, though recognising others at the human level, sees the concept Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam as very much a practical reality.🙏✨

[@anshchoudhary9662]

Hi Alice, sorry to hear about what happened to you here in India. I think I can give some insight to the Indian culture and why such things happen. By this, I am in no way trying to justify anything bad that happened to you or anyone. This is just helping anyone understand India. I'm not a good writer so the things you read may come up a bit strongly and extreme compared to reality of major cities and even some small cities. (Forgive me for the lousy writing you are about to witness). From what I have observed, the reason why Indian men behave in such a way is because growing up, the genders are pretty segregated in schools and in society. There are different customs for an Indian male and a female from childhood which kind of divides us. In small cities and towns, as children grow up, cross gender friendships tend to decrease. It's kind of how the society is structured which creates this segregation. The same reason why many men don't know how to behave with women. Like in the video, Johanna was groped by that group. They think it's fun and they wouldn't get in trouble because how the society treats men differently. Usually when this happens here, the girl gets scared and doesn't talk to anybody about it and it gets swept under the rug. Compared to western societies, where friends talk openly about many things inspite of their genders, Indians have a less gender neutral thought process. The Indian culture as a whole is pretty much contact-less (this was not the case centuries ago) where we bring our hands together to greet (namaste 🙏) and we don't hug a lot (just close friends and family that too occasionally). This is in perspective of outside of big cities which are evolving rapidly. Indian culture doesn't have a lot of revealing clothing and people usually don't wear such clothes so if a foreigner or Indian is seen wearing skin revealing clothes (shorts are fine to some extent but crop top shorts or skirt), they will attract a lot of attention. I think most of this is changing for good as it should so it doesn't get embarrassing for someone to walk somewhere in shorts or a short skirt with a hundred pairs of eyes staring. Indians also have this habit of staring (or looking at someone with curiosity). People even stare at me (a guy) sometimes when I'm walking on an empty road. About the divide between North and South, I wouldn't call it divide, I would call it big difference of culture and language barrier as percentage of Hindi speakers in South India are less (the same reason a lot of Northerners dislike Southerners and get disliked back). Hope what I wrote makes sense.

[@dayryan100]

Being an Indian, I admit that yes we have issues with women safety....which should be addressed....

[@prashantpal4050]

Foreigners should note following points: 1.Please Don't Get Involved with strangers on Holi and specially Herd Of Boys( they are mostly drunk) its very Risky. Even Indian locals don't colour Every Stranger. There are specially arranged Holi Parties everywhere or you can join local families or societies. But please never try to get involved with every person walking on street. 2. Never allow someone to touch you, specially overexcited random people on streets, in India nobody can touch a female anyhow, always take a stand for yourself . 3. Even when taking selfies , ask them to maintain distance and don't get surrounded like we just saw in this video. Its really heartbreaking what you've gone through 😞 We're very sorry .

[@jennab6338]

Hi Johanna - I am so very impressed by the way that you talked about and explained such a complex and controversial topic. I think that you are extremely brave to share your personal experiences with the world. It is important to be aware of the statistics and data, but it is so much more impactful and meaningful to hear someone's personal story. We have to start talking about these uncomfortable topics as a first step to inspire change in the world. I strongly believe that you are having a positive impact on this world (not just related to this video but in others as well). You are so appreciated, and I hope that you continue to share your thoughts and observations with the world. There will always be haters, but I hope the supporters and the positive vibes will always outweigh the negative comments. You are an excellent teacher as well. I am an instructor at the college level and I am taking notes on your "teaching" style. First introducing the topic and providing statistics, then sharing your own story to make the topic more meaningful, then ending with suggestions and actionable steps that women can take to feel more safe. You really hit the nail on the head with what you said at the end - we should not live in a world where women should feel the need to change their behavior to feel safe, but unfortunately we do. You have a lifelong fan and supporter from New York City, USA. I came to your channel based on my interest in content related to India (my boyfriend is from India and I've always wondered what it might be like to live there, and I love Kerala after going there in 2017 for my friend's wedding), but I stayed because of you! Sending lots of love and positive vibes your way!!

[@JohannaNorth]

If there's ever been a comment that makes vlogging about serious topics worthwhile, it's this one! I'm honestly almost in tears now :') You have just validated everything that I wish to do with this vlog! And also made me feel much less nervous about motherhood. I was also in various teaching jobs for small (and sometimes disabled) kids in Finland, and even though I always loved it and knew I was good at it and would be in being a mom too, well you know sometimes a girl gets doubts :D So hearing your appreciation for my teaching skills made me feel super proud of myself, especially since we hope to home school our kids at least in their earlier years. Seriously I can't thank you enough for this comment. I might have to frame it for future reminders :) And really hope you get to visit India soon again! Lovely to have you here on my channel

[@jennab6338]

@@JohannaNorth You are so very welcome! I have no doubt that you will be an amazing mother and a fantastic educator for your child. I hope that I will be able to visit India again soon too! I was only able to explore Kochi and Hyderabad my first time, but there are so many other places that I want to visit. I have been watching your travel vlogs too and adding some of the places to my list :) I will certainly continue to be a regular on your channel ❤ Take care and stay safe!

[@biharisinghkavia7688]

@@jennab6338 Mam people just generalize the whole 1.3 billion people and whole Country , only 1 percent of Indian population lives in slums , India has world's third highest no of billionaires , world's third biggest economy GDP (PPP) , but the whole western people and media seems to ignore that For the it's only slums and poverty and crowd

[@biharisinghkavia7688]

@@jennab6338 You are most welcome after all this crisis 👍👍

[@Zapoo_alito98]

@@jennab6338 well come to Pakistan the best travelling and adventure distinction in the world pakistan always wellcome ❤❤

[@rajeshmoza6504]

Respect your opinion on sexual harassment in India. Thank you for raising it. As Indian, we should not feel aggrieved to hear such comments instead should introspect for knowing/ unknowingly harassing a woman.

[@shayleigh7138]

Your words are so true!!! Thanks for being brave and sharing 🙂

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much! :)

[@gromit576]

Here is something people don't think about: molestation, groping, cat calls, ogling, stalking, verbal abuse, which a girl has to endure through out life is as horrendous as being rap...d And this is major difference between inida and other countries. The stats doesn't tell the full story.

[@kesiyak.s.7708]

You have learnt through all those experiences.. That's a good thing..!! You are really being an amazing Indian woman in heart!!!

[@JohannaNorth]

So nice of you, thanks a million times :)

[@subhrodey6043]

I am glad you make this video, this shows how our society is still going through this problem, i hope this video will bring some change in the future in the mentality of the people.❤❤❤

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you 😊🙏

[@ankitrajput8525]

women safety is still a big issue in some parts of india... It is true

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you for acknowledging :)

[@anitanegi1083]

All parts of india

[@tombrady3970]

@@anitanegi1083 no safety is a main issue in bimaru states not others

[@anitanegi1083]

@@tombrady3970 all states and don't argue with me...

[@assassin9763]

@@tombrady3970 yes because she got groped in bimaru states and not goa right?...

[@Lol.therealdhrxv]

On behalf of 🇮🇳 I apologise to you for negative experiences

[@sherinjohnson8811]

Dear Johanna, even being an Indian I feel like I have more to learn from you to live a comfortable life in India..... The way you observe and learn things is really great....

[@sandeepakgupta]

Sad sad sad but true as well. It's upon parents to pay more attention on how their sons are behaving in and outside of home rather than their daughters. Naman to u for ur bravery and courage in managing through it all.

[@thinkgreat6235]

Every single word of yours was true Johanna. Here in India, we can get harassed (or at least can be disturbed) by men for no reason at all so we've to always make sure that we're safe when we get out of our houses and should think a lot as to what to wear where. Even though there aren't many men with wrong mindset, our safety lies in our own hands. And then there are more men who are very respectful towards women. I too have a lot of friends who are boys and I never feel unsafe with them. Ultimately, what matters is how boys are raised and what values they've been taught since childhood, may they live anywhere in the world. What I love about you is the fact that you're so unbiased towards your views about India and the West. And also its your happy and smiley nature that has glued this huge and ever growing KZbin fam to your channel. So I just want to request you to never lose your beautiful personality for others. Much love!♥️♥️♥️

[@RK-fi7ek]

Well said.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much! I almost have tears in my eyes reading your comment. I try my best to be unbiased and understand why things are the way they are, even when they might be wrong in my opinion :) And I'm trying very hard to recover from the anxiety and fear of being myself, because I miss the person I was - and I actually had more fun in India when I was that person :)

[@thinkgreat6235]

@@JohannaNorth you're indeed a pure soul Johanna and I'm sure Vinod and your baby are so lucky to have you in their life😇

[@katkat2340]

Trust is always earned, stay strong, respect given is respect received . Take care

[@freyjawinter]

Hi Johanna, I rarely comment on videos but I have so much appreciation for this video. I used to live in Kerala with my partner from there, he betrayed me with another foreigner when I left to work for his visit visa to meet my family and save for our future in India which we had planned. It really broke me but it was a lesson learnt. When I definitely don't blame the cheating on the fact that he was Indian, what was really hard to deal with was that he always had a background idea that travelling western girls were not to be trusted and there was a constant battle when I came to settle things at home financially that he always felt I was the one not to be trusted, despite my constant dedication. There was definitely a slightly warped idea of Western culture in the UK which was very far from how I lived my fairly unsocial quiet life. The small village I lived in was very beautiful and accepting for the most part and his family were wonderful people whom I miss very much, but there was also a suspicion from the others who didn't know me and just saw me in passing, that because I was white that I might break his heart or just be "one of those travelling girls" which really hurt me because inside I felt romantic and dedicated to making a beautiful life for us. It was the other way around in the end, I got my heart broken but I felt so scared he would spin the story and just tell everyone it was me and people would easily believe this based on the fact I was white. It was very hard to accept that he betrayed me with another westerner after I spent so long trying to prove my love and gain his trust on that matter. It really upsets me to see western girls in Goa and Varkala and the touristic areas literally having small romance holidays with Indians, or simply sleeping with them, as I think it spreads a really bad message. At the same time for them to do this, some Indian men are obviously going to these places to seek this and I know some people think this is the more modern way, or a different path from arranged marriage but most people I know actually prefer long term loyal love not something temporary. I always think what happens to the girls who literally fall in love with a man in India (regardless of the fact that he is Indian) It especially broke me that my own relationship was broken by a girl who literally admitted she was looking for a Summer Indian boyfriend, only for her time there. He ended up betraying me with the kind of girl he claimed to disapprove of and someone the opposite of my character. You have raised really important issues here. It's really hard to be in a new culture and be accepted as an individual. I loved India but so much of what happened to me broke my trust in humans. I hope to return one day for a peaceful experience with less memories of the hurt. Beautiful videos you have. I appreciate your channel and Anniina's for happy endings and honest and pure descriptions of life in another country, the bad and the beautiful. Very raw and real.

[@mrittikasinhabiswas245]

It's the hard reality of India. You are really a very brave woman. I appreciate as well the way of depicting the actual story. I recently started watching your videos and really got hinged into it.☺

[@Annabhawan]

A very thorough discussion on this topic! I have to agree and have had similar experiences, although I have always felt very safe in India. A Finnish friend of mine, who was living in Chennai with her boyfriend, always used to wear sindoor when out and about (and I also always wear sindoor in India but only after I got married!).

[@alexbabysam4919]

Interesting, I w’d say kerala is the best place in India. You can do anything in kerala without getting any weird staring.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you, Anna! I'm glad you feel safe here too, but of course also very sad that you've the experiences too. At least there's some progress happening now, I just wish it was more and quicker! I think many of us girls have our own "emergency kit" full of these kinds of tricks. I might have to consider the sindoor when we go to Jaipur next.

[@shreyapatel5270]

Haha!.. and did it really help? I started wearing a wedding band per my husband’s friends suggestion so American man would leave me alone And even after saying I am married they would ask “are you happily married”? I am a grandma now and during this COVID time I was in a store last week with my mask on looking for toys this store Clark started complimenting me on my looks!..and asked me for my ph.number! And I repeatedly kept saying...I am grandma!! Is this ever gonna change? 😡

[@drsrikanthsatnoor2089]

Very true and brave enough to say don't worry Indians support in every way

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you :)

[@28gauravsharma]

Solutions:- First) Start with Home- From day one parents should taught their Son's to respect girls/women and need to tell them never to tease any girl in their life. 2nd in School- Apart from regular subjects a weekly class should be made about ethics on day to day life/ respecting women/ women safety. Thirt- stop normalising eve teasing in Movies- Agree or Not their is a huge impact of movies in our day to day life. The normalising of hero teasing a girl in movie & after some hardship acceptance of girls has a very bad impact on boys. We need change this. Fourth- Life imprisonment for rape with adult and life sentence for raping a minor or killing of victing should be given. Special fast track court should be made for only rape or sexual harrasment cases all over the country. If anyone want add on, Please go ahead

[@shreyapatel5270]

I applaud you Johanna for talking about this topic. And you have been able to explain it so well being a foreigner in India and with all your personal experiences. This kind of talk should be most welcome and appreciated. . I have been also harassed here at work and followed by men even when I am walking with my daughter. But groping incidents by men in India is the most disgusting I find that I experienced growing up and also in Bombay during my visit. Please keep bringing and talking on social issues. You are the best. Much love and adoration ❤️😘

[@katkat2340]

Groping is also stealing another mans honor. That is a sad thing , violating a woman with hands is also rape.

[@JohannaNorth]

I find that in Finland the groping would mostly take place in either clubs or some other big party venues/festivals, where pretty much everyone is drunk. Or at least that's my experience. I can't recall getting groped otherwise, not in public transportation, on the street etc, even though in number I've been groped many more times in Finland than in India 😟 but sadly, I'm more afraid of it happening in India, because here it can happen in many more places 🥺 I'm shocked to find out that you've been followed even in the company of your daughter! Must be terrifying for her too. ❤️ I very much intend to talk more about these kinds of issues that demand awareness in the future! 🙏 Will love to create more "educational" content 😊

[@shreyapatel5270]

Groping incident only happened here to me when long back, I went to indian clothing store to buy an outfit for a wedding with my daughter. She was living with me then. After trying on an outfit and came out to show it to my daughter and from no where the owner came rushing trying to fix outfit on me fondling me everywhere while I tried pushing him away seeing my child shrinking in a chair with horror on her face!.. as soon as that man left she screamed saying let’s go mom that man is very bad. And I changed hurriedly she pulled my hands and dragged me out. I was so extremely proud of my daughter for her actions and her confidence. So next day I went back to the store with my husband to buy the dress(I badly need one!) and confronted the guy in front of other customers telling him out loud about his horrible behavior. And yes after that I never went to his store ever again. And I still talk about that incident even now as he still has a store here! It pains me to know that women is not able to confine even to their own mother even rape. We really need to and should be able to talk openly about every little incident. Thank you so much for bringing this topic to public. We have to raise our daughters to be a confident women and boy to be respectful young man. You are really on to something big Johanna as I think you are trying to change a world little by little. I so much admire you and looking forward to your NGO. Meanwhile enjoy your pregnancy, staying safe. ❤️😘

[@highbrownextdoor]

I'm a Tamil guy hailing from Tirunelveli (about 4 hours from Trivandrum). My ex girlfriend is a White American. Last year, we were on a travel to different parts of the country from North to down South. And she happened to be in trouble because of some dudes as well. They don't even ask or look for her consent before wrapping their arms around her shoulder for selfies with her. And there was this guy in a group who posed pouting his lips as if he's kissing her; I flipped out and there was almost a street fight. Unfortunately, some Indian men have a stereotype that all White women are loose and they consent by default to everything they are trying to do with them. Regardless of ethnicity, any woman's safety and privacy are not any less significant than that of a fellow Indian woman's. Also, you're apparently a daughter of this land now! My sincere apologies on behalf of every Indian dude who behaved inappropriately to you, dear sister. Love, Sailu ❤️

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you for sharing your experience Sailu! I can understand your anger. Even my very chill husband sometimes gets a bit mad and frustrated. And he doesn't even completely understand how much things like these happen to me. But I must say that even regardless of the stereotype of us Western women and the fact that me being white often seems to invite much more unwanted attention, I also often think that in general I'm getting treated with more respect due to my whiteness than the normal Indian women :(

[@highbrownextdoor]

@@JohannaNorth My pleasure, sis! Speaking of the additional respect, yes, on the other hand, that happens, too. I mean, if you're white, you relatively get more respect and sometimes you'll be glorified just for being white. LoL Kindly check this out: qz.com/india/992438/the-guilty-privilege-of-being-a-white-woman-in-india/amp/

[@katkat2340]

How wonderful you are ! Your girlfriend is blessed.

[@highbrownextdoor]

@@katkat2340 Thank you so much! 😊🙏

[@highbrownextdoor]

@Tanmoy Podder No, that's not it. And lately, we're actually kinda getting back together.

[@yanetariasmendoza5858]

Thank you to share your experience and talk about it. YOU ARE BRAVE MADAM. Stay safe😊❤

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you Yanet 😊🙏

[@jknair1]

Very well said, Johanna. I can really attest to every single point you mentioned. The best aspect of your video is that you said everything with just the right amount of detail, while maintaining the right amount of stress to drive the points. In short, you nailed it. I hope that your message gets to people everywhere, and makes a positive difference where needed. Truly awesome video.👍🏻

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much! I'm so happy to hear this, because I was so nervous if I'd be able to balance it properly, so that people wouldn't too easily misunderstand me and the point I wanted to make :)

[@ankushchatterjee4421]

Hi , Johanna love you videos ,Plz make more of these topics it's is really important in today and face these people and I hope teach your child martial arts or something to keep them safe and be strong.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you, I will :) I don't know yet what kinds of activieties we'd be teaching them exactly, but definitely one of our biggest goals is to teach the to stand up for theirs (and others') rights! :)

[@tharakanand8491]

It hurts to hear you lost your smile . And what you said is true. You really covered mostly everything and its true.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you 😊🙏

[@anishkumarkj5609]

Hi Johanna... You have very clarity in ur thoughts and expressions... Hearing to ur speech is quite meditative... And you r lucky to get a such soul as ur husband, Ur best bet in the life... Keep up the natural blissful nature of yours... And keep spreading the good vibes.. Definitely change will come one day... Best wishes for your explorations in life.. God bless u

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much 🙂

[@prismbook3005]

It's true ...what you're saying 👍👍

[@viyer3389]

I agree no person should ever be assaulted or harassed or otherwise made to feel unsafe or be in fear for their life or property. I agree it is never the victim's fault for any crime or inappropriate experience encountered by the person by other person.

[@BabychenMathew]

You got the part about reporting wrong. Rape reporting is low across the world, even in developed countries, true. But India is on a different level. There is no serious sociologist who would say otherwise. The shame that results in low reporting is several times higher in India. Family pressure to not report is extremely high. Society in general, looks down on the victim - and the result difficulties in life and the permanent shame is impossible to deal with for women from conservative backgrounds. There is almost a guarantee in India that you would be spending years in police stations and courts without justice. There is no faith in the police or the judicial system to support you. There is little faith even in your own family to support you. When I was growing up, rapes sometimes even resulted in the entire family killing themselves. Sometimes it resulted in the father killing himself, and sometimes he would kill the woman for bringing shame to the family even if he knows she was the victim. Every social activist who works with women would tell you that almost no reporting of rapes happen. in the most educated parts, there is less shame attached - and you will see more reporting. So you will find high rape reporting (relatively) in Kerala or in the metros.

[@JohannaNorth]

I'm sorry if my explanation came out as if I didn't think reporting was a huuuuge issue in India! I think we all who educate ourselves in this issue most definitely agree with what you wrote here. My bad for not mentioning it clearly enough. But when I was talking about the negative stereotype West has about India, I wanted to focus more on the hypocrisy and double standard. Westerners tend to think that India is absolutely terrible in this aspect and West is just great and almost every incident gets reported there, which is far from the truth! I only meant to say that the West does very badly in numbers too, even though not as badly as India. I did not want to take away from the abysmal state of reporting in India :)

[@aryamurali9922]

Brave you are ❤️

[@JohannaNorth]

🙏❤️

[@sheethalcoelho4646]

Right said Johanna... I agree with u... I appreciate u...

[@yogeshmediga1431]

Atleast ur telling truth I agree now it's been more safe because people are knowing thing's

[@nirmalakumar3546]

We cannot generalise when we consider exploitation against women in any country.

[@sanjivmenezes8079]

Johanna, This is a problem with the way many of our men have been brought up. Their mothers and sisters are goddesses, whereas other women are fair game, to be harrassed and taken advantage of! Women are assumed to be the 'property' of first the father, then the husband, without independence and their own identity. This is changing albeit slowly. Till then there is no option but to take necessary precautions to protect oneself. This is a sorry state of affairs and I apologise for this.

[@JohannaNorth]

That was a very good, short description of the mentality that is even still quite common. But I know so many incredible, progressive parents too! I'm for example so proud of my in-laws. Even though they of course still have some of the more conservative values of their generation (and rural home) they have done a remarkable job in raising my husband and his sister into a more modern mindset! And even when they are faced with situations that challenge their conservative thinking, they adjust to those developments so easily and are able to learn and welcome change.

[@sanjivmenezes8079]

@@JohannaNorth Raise your child to be a global citizen who is independent and with the right value systems. That would be the greatest contribution you could make! 😊

[@sanjivmenezes8079]

@Darkhorse 'Global Citizen' was obviously a metaphor! Listen to John Lennon's Imagine 🙂

[@kapilc7760]

Dear Johanna, thanks for showing all this . you are doing the awesome job, I have seen your most of the videos today only. Please remember you are a courageous woman and to those idiots touching you, As you understood elbow work here and in same way few idiots cannot be set right with just elbow.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much Kapil 😊🙏

[@soniavarghese3316]

This video has evoked A LOT of feelings for me! Thanks Johanna for saying all that you did. Please ladies, take this matter seriously. I have traveled in many parts of the world, and feel my numerous travels throughout India were the hardest for this reason. In every trip, I was accompanied by family, and I still got molested.Especially on trains and buses. For decades, I have practiced some of Johanna’ tips: wear a wedding band, never give phone no.to strangers, don’t get into strangers’ cars, dress modestly. I also don’t smile at people randomly and I never look directly at men in the eyes unless I am speaking to them. I put something heavy in my purse and am prepared to whack a guy on the head,continuously while yelling/cursing to embarrass him!😁😄🤣 Traveling in India is safer when done with a group of friends/family. Ladies, we can’t do much to affect the behavior of men/others, but WE CAN TAKE personal responsibility. Happy Travels!😊

[@balanh1269]

Okay, you have opened up a Pandora's box now. :) We just don't realize what harassment means and that no means no. And I am not even referring to crime which is a different topic altogether. Anyway, I tell my kids (both daughter and son) that they should never take their safety for granted, anywhere in the world. And to learn to recognize those situations early.

[@JohannaNorth]

That's definitely going to be one of the biggest challenges for us too, once our kid arrives in this world! And just like you said, ANYWHERE in the world. I think it's wonderful how you are practicing this attitude with both of your children! 😊🙏

[@jyojyo939]

Yes India is patriarchal....people judge women by what they wear. What they smoke ,What they drink... Reality is there is an affinity towards what is we are not allowed to do... Everybody tag this in the name of culture.... It's very unfortunate and we are really sorry for that.... Being a country with 2nd most population with unemployment ,and very few people demand social progress .social progress is considered secondary or teritiary here ..Politicians , media,etc here try to address those things which only benefits themselves not the people...i respect ur views, anyway stay safe.. Those people who comment" proud to be Indian" comment in every vedios of Indians achieving something in other foreign country also should be ashamed of what our Indians treat women here ...if we want to change something, first we should accept that it is wrong ....

[@JohannaNorth]

There's definitely so many things to be proud about in being Indian, but I agree that for me it's really challenging to celebrate going into the space or some huge business deals, while the women of India still often get treated so poorly and there is so much poverty and inequality. I'd hope the money and efforts first went into those more pressing issues.

[@manassharma1375]

@@JohannaNorth what's even more challenging for me is that people raise voice against various social issues but i haven't seen any youtuber raising voice against animal cruelty...no offense but westerners criticize india for it's various social issues but they themselves never acknowledge the wrongs that is being done to animals...just criticizing is not a solution.....if you have influence over people than please make videos that add values to them.....stay safe

[@sreeshajs3756]

Kerala in ancient times had matrichial system called marumakathayam where you inherited from your mother's side and not from father's side even the erstwhile rulings clans too had matrichial system .where the kings son is not next king it's his eldest sister's son will inherit kingship even if family property is partioned the girl or daughter has more share than the son but we do not follow it anymore. Mother's and her brothers had more say than the father's.

[@ananyanegi8313]

Welcome to the life of an indian woman.

[@shrigupt2211]

bharatiy mahilye Asia ki sabse pichasni mahilye hai

[@alicemathai3938]

I am sad that you had a bad experience in Visakhapatnam. When you are nice people take a different meaning altogether. Glad that God kept you safe and you are a wise girl speaking the right thing. Stay safe . God bless!

[@haridhar8620]

Excellent observation and almost accurate assessment about women safely in India. But I feel very sad and embarrassed when this lady explained about her experience in Visaghapatnam.

[@arshjordan5455]

Condition of women in India is safe "until" you are actively watching for red flags. India is a bit of conservative society . Opposite genders are somewhat restricted unless they are anyhow related. Indian men and women know how system works but still that doesn't work everytime . With foreign womens, they are often perceived as open (which is absolutely wrong, due very different culture and upbringing system, level of individual independence) which sometimes cause uncomfortable situations. The solution to this is more we talk about it, more cultural exposure on both sides of world, more easing the society. I really support you in more talks like these.

[@Veggivibes]

i fully agree with you . Some of Indian men never respect the word NO .. Thank you for sahring this .

[@foodiepanda8335]

So true 👍

[@lori9588]

It is very sweet of you to say you've never felt unsafe in India, but you shouldn't try to appease people who might get offended... The Holi situation alone was threatening enough, but the staring/ogling itself is extreme enough to feel threatening sometimes. I didn't feel safe in India and wouldn't even take an Uber alone in big cities like Mumbai or Hyderabad. Not worth the risk

[@JohannaNorth]

I've often felt anxious and uneasy in India. I've talked about these and many other issues in this video. The video is pretty long so you might have missed out those parts 🤔

[@lori9588]

@@JohannaNorth I see, sorry for misunderstanding you. I thought you've never felt as though you were in danger, even though you have been in those uncomfortable, anxiety-inducing situations. I personally always feel as though those uncomfortable situations could escalate to a dangerous situation if I'm not careful, but that may boil down to me being a scaredy-cat lol. The fact that you're thriving in India and feel a sense of overall safeness is comforting. You're very brave to face those challenges with such a positive attitude and outlook. It's inspirational! I hope I can find that bravery someday and experience India to the fullest as well

[@katkat2340]

“A woman’s soul is fashioned to be a shelter in which others souls unfold.” St Edith Stein. Ppl are ppl everywhere, so we unfortunately must raise our daughters to keep their innocence with love and to guard their bodies , hearts and minds. We as women bring innocence into the world. Our precious children. How we must teach our daughters and Sons to respect others and treat them as human beings worthy of protection, love and happiness. If men are being inappropriate they will create fear and repression, which is sad. If women are inappropriate they create bad ppl to become worse. India has some of the most beautiful women in the entire world. A western woman who is accosted by a lustful look knows the heart of that man. We know that they think because we are western they think us loose. That is a stigma but one gotten more honestly these days. There are good ppl and bad ppl. Guard your self , keep strong, Women can change the world by teaching their children to respect and see one another as humans , not just an object to be defiled. 🙏🏽

[@shubhraagarwal453]

Yours was a thoughtful message. But I would just like to share some thoughts which I beleive are necessary to get a fairer perspective. Firstly, women are inclusive of the ones not bearing children as well. Don't limit the identity of womenkind to the definition of bringing life into the world. Secondly, mothers are also a product of the society. The mothers who have had an ignorant upbringing are likely to raise their kids the same way. There's something called as the human nature, which is complex and varies across humans. Women including mothers are humans first. They can be good and bad. Infact many a times, the fathers are the more compassionate, caring parents who teach their kids the right values. It's all about the kids having good role models in their lives which may or may not be women. So NO, 'inappropriate women DO NOT make bad people worse'. Don't make the women responsible for the crimes of others. The former imo, was a pretty ill considered statement of yours. Simply put, "Not all women are mothers and not all mothers are great". The society needs to stop leaving the responsibility of all the moral high ground and love to the mothers and the women in general. This is important as, because of this 'divine women logic' which is furthered by the society the women who deviate from the norm even a little bit are seen as less of a woman, worthy of ridicule. I don't challange your intention behind writing what you wrote, for I know it was positive and encouraging. However, I couldn't stop myself from sharing how I felt.

[@katkat2340]

Shubhra Agarwal Hi that is valid as well, I did not intend to make women responsible for the crimes of others. Women do stand on their own identity 1 st and foremost. Your right a woman does not always have to be a mother. Some women are not naturally embracing motherhood and also some men are exceptional great parental , loving people. So there is nothing absolute in society . I do think women that embrace motherhood do bring a lot to the world and now the world ( especially in the west value a woman more if she’s educated and put out of the home to work , leaving children behind to being raised by strangers) . I’m not against working women well educated but also women who love their life to raise children and build their homes are very special too. I have family who are professionals and leave their children to caregivers and that’s the right thing for them but also I see a downhill slide by taking a women out of her home. This I realize is unpopular view in the west. Thanks for your input . You are also right and women are a gift as human being in their own right.

[@shubhraagarwal453]

@@katkat2340 Thanks for acknowledging my view. I understand your perspective as well. Good luck 👍

[@katkat2340]

Shubhra Agarwal thank you dear 🌼😄

[@prashantpal4050]

Living here in India(and mostly Asian countries) is kinda wild experience even in 2021, it's not as smooth as in Western Countries. It's like You're walking in a jungle where you can find Deers and Peaceful Birds at one turn and Wolves and hyenas at the next turn, so you better walk in numbers. And always stay alert. No doubt it's a Negative Point but that's how it is and sadly it's not gonna change overnight

[@aayush5197]

Awesome work 🔥🙏❤️

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you :)

[@arunbhat2511]

Please lodge a police complaint on them. If you can identify them, we will catch them and hand them over to police. Rapes exists in India but very less. We don't support these criminals. We are with you.

[@mongolarmada724]

The staring and selfies is done mostly by uneducated and under educated crowd as somewhere in our minds we still do have the inferiority complex towards foreigners. It is slowly going away due to education and hopefully will vanish in the near future.

[@sreehariasv736]

Johanna ,kerala is more safer than other parts of India.But some issues in kerala. Mainly each person respect them these issues be stopped from our society. In childhood stage both understand them. boys and girls respect each other. Great Video Johanna.👍👍👨👩

[@JohannaNorth]

Oh yes I've made a vlog earlier about why we love living in Kerala and this was one of the reasons 😊 and kids are amazing and I feel often smarter than us grownups!

[@stevensun5542]

I don't agree with your comment...check in KZbin "The most Dangerous states for women in India"

[@sreekanthmadiyan]

Steven Sun why don’t you agree.? Please go and experience it. I don’t say Kerala is the safest place. I would rather say Kerala is comparatively safer. Every place has got it’s own problems.

[@JohannaNorth]

@@stevensun5542 In Kerala crimes get reported more than in many other states in India (due to the police etc acting upon those reports), which is why the crime rate relatively seems higher. No one is claiming that Kerala is perfect and completely safe for women, I point out several times in the vlog that even one of the safest countries in the world (Finland) isn't. But comparatively Kerala does really very good in India and I've experiences from most states.

[@stevensun5542]

Northeast is safe place for women in India..Northeast women are enjoy high status & respect in society..

[@mohitkhanna3985]

Sorry for those incidents.. I understand when u said tht u just wanted a friend to hangout with and talk without any other agenda.. Its little hard to find someone that kind specially if u r white. Keep ur personality as it is and i like ur smile

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much for the understanding. It is tough indeed :/ Now I'm really glad though because I have a few good lady friends in some of the big metros, but also have made good friends of the wives of my husband's colleagues :)

[@user-yt9yw6uf4m]

It's 2023 and nothing has changed. Women still feel unsafe everyday

[@salmanulfarish3828]

It's true india have lot of problems especially some rural parts ..By the way it's good vlog..Keep going 👍👍

[@JohannaNorth]

Thanks a ton!

[@AnkitYadav-td6mg]

Hi Johanna, just an off-topic question if you have time.... 14:47 I'm actually from Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) & would like to ask you: 1) What was your perception of my city vis-a-vis a typical city in Finland? I guess in all probability you might haven't had spent any reasonable amount of time here, as GKP is just a small layover stop on Nepal, Varanasi, & other Buddhist circuit routes. But nevertheless I thought it would be interesting to get some insights from a first world native on my city which belongs to one of the least developed parts (eastern U.P.) of one of the lesser developed Indian States (U.P.) 2) Any suggestion which you think could count towards improvement of my city. Before my fellow Indians accuse me of seeking "white validation", I would like to mention I am an aspiring civil servant & was curious about her experience & feedback. Edit: Fun Fact: 1. Gorakhpur (U.P.) has the longest railway platform in the world (> 1Km) 2. Its home to the world's largest press, publishing spiritual (Hindu) literature (& home of the 'Kalyaan Magazine') 3. The erstwhile largest regional railway headquarters Btw, 15:44 Kudos to the guy for making us proud. Nevertheless, if you think it was something extravagant then let me tell you most people in my city would have done the same given your predicament (lonely white girl contemplating spending the entire night on a railway station!)

[@JohannaNorth]

I've been many times to Gorakhpur on my way to Nepal or back from there, but as you guessed, I don't really think I've spent enough time there to make a very good, valid perception about the city. I haven't actually ever had any bad experiences there, even though travelling alone in UP often makes me a bit nervous. I've met wonderful, absolutely lovely people there - my favourite is a paratha place just opposite the railway station where the owner always remembers me even after many years! But unfortunately the parts that I HAVE seen make me think that the city doesn't really offer enough quality of life to its people. It looks very poor and less developed in my eyes, from a rather different decade than the one we're living in. I think the most important first improvements would be in infrastructure - especially building better roads/traffic systems (there are tons of potholes on the roads!) and focusing on public cleanliness. I do hope to visit Gorakhpur many more times in the future, especially because I want to take my husband to that paratha place! So maybe then I'll have more time to spend there to make a more well-rounded opinion of the city :)

[@arpansaha8323]

This is a huge problem that you have highlighted, what is more shocking that this problem has grown in last 10 years instead of reducing, it really pains me to hear from you that even after 4 long years things have not improved. Probably we need to focus on our education more where we are taught the meaning of equality in its true sense

[@WhereIdwell]

Great episode Johanna, very well explained your observations and experience while travelling and living in India. In fact issues towards woman we can find in all countries whether developed or developing countries... As you mentioned your safety tips if one follows those, we can avoide lot of troubles (basically we have to use our commonsense especially while travelling or in a different country as tourist) I am from fort kochi, even though its a favourite tourist destination, noticed few western woman's wearing clothes in indecent way ( fully exposing their body) in fact this should be avoided, as proper dress code and rules already given to them by the tourist office or guide. And if any bad experience occured to any of these tourist it will come in the media which gives negative thoughts to others... So all tourist visits any countries should understand the life style of that particular country before landing their.... This is applicable to both men as well woman solo travellers also. Stay safe and lets build a beautiful world. Good job Johanna and continue your interesting contents! Regards,

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much! :) That's indeed a great idea that maybe tourist offices, airplanes or even embassies should start handing out good info and guidelines for behaviour to people arriving in different countries!

[@bestinthebusiness8226]

I am really distributed by the behaviour of that guy!! Apologies as a native country man!!

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you :)

[@sairamji115]

Brave you are ...🤗❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@hopeland1100]

#LetsTalk And we must show that we care for everyone's safety Woman Man. Child Adult Old And even transgenders World is a place where as all deserve to live feeling free loved and cared With more and more souls like you may be one day soon we will reach there God bless 💝

[@zerocostmarketingyoutubers6256]

Super explanation of true story I know some issues in india have to change but don't warry about it because india is a developing beautiful country what you are not forget or not any of them these all things will be clear in the future days year's.

[@sreejithbhasi1977]

I'm from Kerala and I've done an all India trip from Kerala to Delhi by car. I realized that North India is not safe for tourists but South Indian states like Kerala, TamilNadu and Goa is safe for tourists🙏🏻.

[@stephin1612]

Good video . Well explained 👍

[@JohannaNorth]

Thanks 🙂

[@lynda.grace.14]

A well handled discussion on a sensitive subject. With regard to personal safety I think women need to be well armed and err on the side of caution all the time. We are always vulnerable and should act accordingly. Our safety is our responsibility and whatever country we are in, there is not much protection. In the end, if we press a charge we are the ones on trial, not the perpetrator or the rapist. That's still how the world works no matter how wrong that is. A deeply flawed system as you say. When travelling outside our own culture the need for hyper awareness increases. First, we need to have a thorough understanding of and respect for the cultural norms and cues which are not our own--we are the visitors after all. Second, we also have to be aware of what we might be communicating with our body language, gestures and dress. Resting bitch face is a valuable mask to wear. We can laugh, tease and flirt with people we know we can trust and no one else. Even then, most unfortunately, someone can show their dark side unexpectedly. Be aware. Always. In addition, sometimes a situation you initially trusted can go sideways very, very quickly. If you remain sober and vigilant it's more likely that you can extract yourself when they do.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much for commenting again, Lynda! I agree with everything you wrote. It's just extremely sad that this is the situation everywhere in the world. It is so very exhausting having to be aware of your surroundings and yourself all the time when you step out of the door. And I just ideally don't like the idea of being armed at all. It's painful to think how for many women that is a necessity when there isn't much external protection for them and most of the world fails in educating the men to NOT pose a threat to women. :(

[@lynda.grace.14]

@@JohannaNorth I agree. It's men who need the education. I recall being OMG shocked--yes!--shocked many years ago now when I viewed a panel of women discussing this topic. One of the women said, "It's your hard on. Deal with it. You have two hands. It's not a woman's responsibility." But men have been taught to believe that their desires are our responsibility because we caused them to have such feelings. (And we've been conditioned to get sucked in to this false narrative.) Sorry. Boys/men wank all the time. It has nothing to do with us as women. But historically they have been able to get away with dumping the shame for their desires on us. Enough already.

[@mech3694]

Upea video Johanna! 😊, anna minun sanoa u, hyviä ja pahoja ihmisiä on aina ympäri maailmaa, ja sen vastuulla on pysyä turvassa ja olla varovainen, kun he matkustavat ympäri maailmaa 🙏🙏🙏, minun on kerrottava sinulle, sinä ovat erittäin rohkeita🙏🙏💪💪💪, ja ur aina hymyilevä, koska ur erittäin vahva ja rohkea nyt🙏🙏, kukaan ei voi aiheuttaa haittaa sinulle! kyllä ​​olen samaa mieltä siitä, että tyhmät ihmiset ovat läsnä kaikkialla. Jopa miehet eivät joskus ole turvassa, kerron sinulle lyhyen tapaukseni. Olen ammatiltani insinööri, kun palasin kotiin yhtenä kauniina päivänä myöhään keskiyöllä työstä, joukko miehiä yritti varastaa lompakkoni ja minun puhelin, koska olen urheilija, onnistuin sprinttiä ja pääsemään eroon, kannan nyt omaa penkkini, joten olen turvassa !!! myös minä olen intialainen, ja sen jälkeen kun olen törmännyt muutamaan huonoon kokemukseen, se on tehnyt minut vahvemmaksi, rohkeammaksi ja viisaammaksi ... Loppujen lopuksi hyvät ja huonot kokemukset, molemmat ovat välttämättömiä, jotta voimme hyödyntää potentiaaliamme..😊🙏🙏💪💪 niin ur hymy osoittaa vain paljon vahvempaa uraa, ja ensi kerralla, jos joku yrittää tehdä minulle mitään pahaa, olen sanon, että olen himokas positiivinen !! Koska äskettäisen pandemian keskellä sanomalla, että minulla on virus, saa ihmiset juoksemaan pelkojensa kanssa. !!!, joten voit kokeilla samaa suunnitelmaa..😉😉😉😉😁😁😁😁🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣👍👍💪💪💪 upea video, nautin siitä, Jumala siunatkoon sinua, ja kaikki kotona, pysy turvassa, pysy siunatuna, pysy turvassa..🙏🙏🙏🙏👏👏👏

[@JohannaNorth]

Kiitos paljon kommentista ja kehuista! :) Tosi kiva, että jaoit omat kokemuksesi! Minä myös sain työnnettyä ahdistelijani pois kotioveltani, sillä olin tuolloin todella vahva Crossfit-harrastukseni ansiosta :)

[@mech3694]

@@JohannaNorth that's great,😊😁 I guess Vinod is also into crossfit,as he looks fit..👍💪💪

[@richfield1097]

Johanna, please visit Shillong if you haven't. Shillong is known as the Scotland of the east. Here, there's no issue of women safety,the safest place in India.

[@vikaslahoti2697]

Always travel where crowd is there, unsocial incident happens only in dark , alone, restricted areas.

[@viyer3389]

Women safety is a worldwide issue of concern. There are several parts of India there is a serious women safety issues.

[@nikhilkay1]

Importance of son in Indian culture is primary reason for this kind of behavior, sons are given extra non-deserved importance at home so they become quite emboldened. Even mothers don't discipline their sons in their household. These kind of guys are mostly prevalent in North India (UP, Bihar, Haryana) where these hooligans come from rural agriculture society, could be in other parts of India as well but less prevalent. They don't know how to behave in public. Social behavior starts at home and no amount of policing can control these hooligans. There is no public shaming for these guys, lot of them use 'holi' as perfect time to carry out these groping and misbehaving attempts as their face are covered with colors. So don't go out playing holi on street with hooligans, try playing holi within your community and with local people you know. Don't let people come near or hug you while taking selfies.

[@theindianpanther1800]

Women safty is a big issue in India & the law should be more strict for the women's issues.

[@manya8208]

I've experienced harrasment in London I was groped by this guy who was really strong and tall but i couldn't do anything at that moment and i was just frozen. I informed the cops but they told me " he just groped you right?"

[@saideepakb]

The problem in India is two fold - human rights are not respected and women are not considered as equals.

[@crizzayn9585]

👍I agree with you

[@ishbhatt8961]

Whenever someone harassed you in India don't suppressed your voice just learn some Hindi phrases and shout out their then you will see crowd around you teach a very well lesson to those person similarly India girls or women do when such incident happens with them

[@vinod1010]

Nice to here all the reality of India. Majority of people are good here. Some bad elements are spoiling entire perceptions regarding Indian. Those culprits who are doing these sort of things should be ashamed of their upbringing.

[@mandargaddamwar]

I say sorry to you for the behaviour you experienced in india from the depth of my heart extremely felt sad about it really sorry.

[@Materealistic_empath]

As a girl I never felt unsafe in India. But I used to live in dubai for 1 year & with full confidence I would say India is safer than that. But ya it happens here so govt. is been taking steps as well . Super strict laws imposed already to prevent this crimes.

[@fzi-l3i]

I think pop culture like bollywood and songs with misogynistic lyrics also has a major part to play in this...

[@unknown-qv1nu]

Bad elements are present in every society. We have to make loud noise and make them punished. Also primary education should focus on character building.

[@JohannaNorth]

I agree! 🙏

[@manasbhajre9]

There are lots of lumpen elements on the streets during festivals like Holi. They should be avoided not only by foreigners but also Indian women. Both are equally unsafe. This is shameful and the Govt should do something to keep our streets safe during festivals. There cannot be any two opinions on that. God bless Joanna who has sacrificed the comforts of the west and adopted India as her home despite her horrific experience.

[@Junaid_Paramberi]

if u are alone in a place, there is no people at all u should be care full in every a part of this world, if u are in a city or crowded area u dont have to feel unsafe, almost every india is very crowded, evry country had this problems toward women, that is the sad truth

[@JohannaNorth]

I don't necessarily agree about the cities. I've had my most unpleasant experiences in bigger cities, both in Finland and India. In India there have always been other people around when I've been groped or harrassed. But I definitely agree, like I tried to mention several times in the vlog, that this is not just an Indian issue, but something that is a problem everywhere in the world 🥺

[@Junaid_Paramberi]

@@JohannaNorth true

[@guiltowner4605]

i support your opinion

[@SYLFan2008]

Yeah, this was the episode I didn't want to see and I had to turn it off after that clip of you being molested. That said, I felt the need to say my piece: I think you nailed it quite well: India is patriarchal (and I see no bigger anecdote of that than the story your mom-in-law told you about her relatives/friends not wanting Vinod to be with you and that he was some "innocent child" whom would be coerced away from them by you) and more importantly, sexually repressed to the extent that it demonizes sexual attraction and feelings. Yes, the claim is that women are like "devis" or "goddesses" but are they ever asked for that exalted status that is conferred (read: forcibly thrust) upon them? I doubt it. Women have needs, desires, and ambitions...and their urge to seek them is rarely felicitated, and yet, them sacrificing all that for family to become the "load-bearer of virtue" is loudly rejoiced. I'd bet a lot of your audience here doesn't even know how deeply rooted in patriarchy their comments are. I don't claim to be a bastion for Western society. I live in the USA and I'd classify the nation as quite conservative, not egalitarian, and rooted in "rape culture". However, I do think the culture from where you come is still BETTER for women. It's not perfect, but it's better nonetheless. And it's the relatively better egalitarian values of Finland that, for lack of a better word, allowed you and your family to let you confidently and courageously travel to a land to be with the love of your life. It is also those same "relatively better egalitarian values" that encouraged you to find the strength overcome challenges in trying to understand and navigate through in the Indian culture. The efforts and sacrifices you have made is immeasurable and you owe no one any explanations for where you stand and how you feel. Update: I managed to listen through this fully, and the 2nd half was incredibly fucking hard to get through.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much for the great comment, very good analysing there! I quite agree with many things you said. Now, being a mother to a girl, I find it quite challenging to watch this video anymore

[@abdupallikandam3489]

India came in the top 5. Even when 90% cases gone unreported.

[@AjitJoshi686]

I think some of things western women do in India are frankly adventurous. eg I do not participate in Holi festival since I was 10. So Holi for me is unsafe even in city of Mumbai and except once never participated in past 38 years. (Now I am 48 and always been in Mumbai). Other thing regarding Gateway of India we Mumbaikars avoid going there. Changes are required at a border level

[@ranji323]

Feel bad about the initial footage in the vlog.some insensitive idiots to be blamed..please accept our apologies..

[@19sunheart96]

I have been very lucky to not be asked for any selfie and also not stared at much when I visited India with my (Indian) boyfriend. I guess it was probably a combination of him always being with me, staying mostly in and around Mumbai (in the Marathi village we visited I did get more looks), me wearing clothes that fit with the locals and being short with dark hair and eyes, so I maybe attract less curiousity because I don't look as interesting. Either all these factors combined did somehow protect me, or I was just lucky and didn't stay long enough to experience the selfie madness. I will find out after a few more visits I guess. I really enjoyed my time in India, but I don't think I would have the confidence to travel solo outside big cities there.

[@vijayaps1672]

Am malyali lived in Kerala too it's one of the toughest places for a young girl

[@JohannaNorth]

I feel comparetively more comfortable here in Kerala 😊 but surely there are issue in every state!

[@ananyanegi8313]

@@JohannaNorth men in India behave differently with foreign women than indian. You will see it yourself after living here for sometimes.

[@NK-cq1ch]

For love girl, you are doing it all you can. You Are such a wonderful intelligent and smart girl.

[@summ6068]

our parents worries a lot for us when we go out.....it says a lot.....do I need to say anything more

[@dharmesh7670]

Please don't be scared it is not only about India but it is about women safety

[@gotyagaw3290]

Hi.please make a video about safety of women and children in Finland

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you for the suggestion. I'll have to think about what I have to say about the topic :)

[@shivendushubham7042]

We can't deny that women safety is a major issue in India but we are working much on that. Apart from that we respect all people with our kind heart.

[@biju1975]

Hi, have you feel any difference between states in India?

[@JohannaNorth]

Sure there are many differences between different regions and even just different cities. I talk about it a little in the section about my experiences 🙂

[@biju1975]

@@JohannaNorth thanks

[@PI650]

To say that a particular society is all merry and jolly and there is nothing wrong about it is extremely wrong. I am by any standards a conservative person but even I admit that casual aggressive behaviour against women is extremely common here. Rape and things like that are unfortunately overhyped in western media but to say the opposite is also not true. We don't become better by saying all is ok. The first thing to make things better is to acknowledge that there is a problem.

[@discuswell6238]

Joh anna ❤️❤️❤️

[@romeodsouza1619]

@JohannaNorth I agree to everything you have said but this is the second time I’m hearing you say something bad about Goa and goans as a local goan guy I don’t understand why you hate Goa even tho you have been there. You have always only criticised Goa never said any good things. Goa is so much more than just beaches you have been there but you know nothing about goan culture and food and I bet you haven’t even met any local goans cause all you saw was Indian tourists from other parts of the country which come to Goa to enjoy. Goan people are much very similar to the Keralite Malayali people very kind and helpful. Next time you come to Goa people visit the other parts of Goa where there aren’t many foreigners or Indian tourists and do try our goan cuisine its surely better than malayali food😉

[@maheshchalva1796]

Its really sick nd disheartening that men behave that way on the streets ,it's got to do with many things, however that's not the norm ,there'll be always exceptions ,1 to 2 percentage of the population happen to be that way ,even that shouldn't be the case ,advice would be don't mix up with general public easily,unless it's necessary,stay safe🙏

[@thejaskrishnan7507]

Sorry that you had such bad incidents in India, hope none in Kannur or Tly. I will blame it on movies - bollywood, tollywood and mollywood - they don't really work on this social problem in depth. This problem has to be studied, researched and laws must be stricter. Men need girl friends, what culture don't promote a happy, meaningful relationship.

[@abhijitdas1412]

👏

[@AkashSingh-gw1yy]

💜💜💜

[@JohannaNorth]

😊🙏