Who is a man and what is he supposed to do?
For years, there have been strict codes around men and masculinity dictated by patriarchy, which has answered this question. However, gradually, men are redefining masculinity, breaking free of restrictive gender codes that have existed for centuries.
Whether it’s donning a frilly skirt or painting their nails, men have come a long way in embracing their masculinity. Here are five men who opened up on Reddit about some of the things society calls ‘unmanly’ that they actually enjoy doing:
1. Drinking Fruity Cocktails
© Netflix
Many men shared their preference for a well-made cocktail over a beer or hard liquor on the Reddit thread. For some reason, cocktails have always been seen as a feminine drink since it’s mixed with different liqueurs or diluting agents. Now, no more!
2. Cooking
© Eros International
In Indian households, especially, men are either barred from entering the kitchen or applauded for cooking the smallest of things because it’s considered to be a woman’s job. Hence, when a man cooks, he is seen as doing something extraordinary. Several men on the Reddit thread shared their love for cooking and baking and even pointed out how most chefs in restaurants are men. So, why the shame?
3. Gardening
© Kareena Kapoor
This is another activity usually associated with women and femininity. Keeping plants in a house or maintaining a garden is traditionally seen as the woman’s prerogative, but men are increasingly interested in gardening. Men shared how they tried growing flowers and vegetables in their garden and decorated the house with fruits of their labour!
4. Knitting
© the_rough_hand_knitter
This one was unexpected! Men spoke about taking up knitting and really enjoying it. One guy even shared how sailors would be expected to know how to knit and sew for emergencies aboard the ship and to repair their own clothes.
5. Baby Talk
© Shahid Kapoor
While I never thought the baby talk was a gendered concept, apparently it’s usually associated with women. However, several men admitted that they love talking in a weird, childish voice with kids and their pets. It adds a weird element of fun and they simply don’t care whether it's seen as masculine or feminine!