Valley’s sole waitress turns tables on gender roles

M Aamir Khan

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, July 1

It may be a common sight elsewhere but one does not usually come across waitresses serving food at restaurants in the Kashmir valley. But scarf-clad Iqra, a spunky 19-year-old, is changing all that even as she breaks social taboo and makes heads turn at one of Srinagar’s most popular restaurants.

After the death of her father last year, Iqra was forced to look for a job as she needed to support her family — an ageing mother and a younger brother. The search for employment landed her at the eatery, Parsa’s, where she gladly accepted the job.

“I lost my father at a young age and he was the sole bread earner. Now, I have been working here for the past few months and so far I have not faced any problem. If women outside Kashmir can do this job, why can’t we?” said Iqra, a resident of Sonwar.

Just like his customers, Managing Director of Parsa Foods and Beverages Javid Parsa said he, too, had never seen a waitress in the Valley.

“We once had a female manager but I haven’t come across a waitress. The staff have adjusted well now. Customers, too, are appreciative," said Parsa. “In fact, Iqra had inspired another girl to work as a waitress. However, she quit after objections from her family.” 

Iqra said women in the Valley should not shy from work usually handled by men. “Women should not feel awkward doing unconventional jobs,” she said, her smile reaching her bright eyes.