In this emotional and candid podcast episode, Alka Duggal, shares her painful journey of dealing with a “silent divorce” and the challenges of separation after 20 years of marriage. She explains the concept of silent divorce, where couples remain together in public but have no relationship in private. Alka discusses her struggles, including feeling unloved, societal judgment, and the difficulty of leaving a toxic environment. Despite being financially supported by her husband post-separation, she highlights the complexity of her situation, where she must navigate daily life with a smile while grappling with uncertainty about her identity and marital status.

Alka recounts her experience of being pressured to leave her husband’s house, the lack of support from her parents, and the pivotal moment when her daughter’s words gave her the strength to move out. She reflects on the deeply ingrained patriarchal norms that require women to adapt to their husband’s family, often at the cost of their own well-being. Alka advocates for raising boys with respect for women and teaching them to share household responsibilities. She emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and understanding in relationships, hoping for a future where women are valued and treated as equals.