Industrial Economist (IE): Your comics gently question societal expectations placed on women. Can you give the reason behind exploring these themes?
Akshara Ashok (AA): While growing up, I saw the double standards and how women are being conditioned to be a “perfect woman” with rules. And for men it was entirely different. Illustrations became a way to process the confusion I had in me, as well as to break the boundaries posed on women without being preachy. Humour felt like a softer entry point without attacking people. So through my Happy Fluff comics, I started including women existing outside expectations. Also, most of the women are trying to unlearn the conditioning, so this was the main reason I started. As my life changed, the work changed too, drawing about grief, pets and mental health helped me find peace. If readers feel seen or less alone, that’s enough for me.
IE: How do you define women empowerment?
AA: Women empowerment is independence. A lot of us think we are independent, but we are not. We are still answerable to someone, either our husband or parents and sometimes we are not given the opportunity to express ourselves. A lot of women started working and earning, but we can find homes where women will have to do the domestic chores even after a long day of work. Some say feminism is no longer needed because women work and earn, but we are only at the beginning, with a long way to go. The freedom to choose without pressure and without being judged is what empowerment means to me.
IE: What have been your personal hurdles to be here today?
AA: Most families never consider art as a career. Lot of people did not understand when I started illustrating about topics that question societal norms. Even my parents were not happy in the beginning. Crossing through judgment, facing bias were somethings I had to go through because of my theme and content. I was anonymous in the beginning and people assumed that I was from the west and were receptive. But when I said I’m from India, the reaction changed. I saw the difference in the way they treated my content. I noticed the shift, but now things are changing and people say that they can connect with my art.
IE: What would you like to tell young women?
AA: Creative careers may look glamorous, but they come with real risks. If you already have a job, don’t quit impulsively. Build your passion as a side hustle until it can sustain you financially. Success takes time and courage, and every choice comes with challenges. For young women especially, time is crucial. Society often rushes them into major life decisions, be it either marriage or career. They do not have space to explore who they truly are. Growth should come from self-awareness, not fear or fantasy. If possible, invest time in understanding yourself first. When your choices are rooted in clarity and patience, they become far more powerful and sustainable.