'I'll Do It Myself': Supriya Srivastav Became The Support System She Deserved

Being a bold, ambitious woman often means standing alone. Hula Hooper Supriya Srivastav, in an episode of the Rulebreaker Show with Shaili Chopra, speaks openly about why she chooses independence over compromise, why some relationships feel hollow, and how modern women are redefining what it means to live life on their own terms.

Understanding Yourself Comes First

“I never felt understood,” Supriya begins. “First of all, I was very opinionated. I have opinions. I confront people. So, I'm not an easy woman to be with. I make my own money. I do whatever I want to do on my own. What do I need a man for?”

For Supriya, independence is about more than financial security; it’s about the freedom to make decisions, pursue ambitions, and live life on her own terms. Standing on her own, she emphasises, is a necessity, not a choice.

When Relationships Are Transactional

Supriya is clear about her views on relationships. “Then it only comes down to I would need a man for maybe sex, you know. So, if you just need a man for sex, then you can get it anytime. As a woman, it's not difficult to find somebody to have sex. It's become very transactional.”

Her words highlight a reality that many women face: relationships that lack emotional support or shared understanding often fail to add value to a woman’s life. Modern women increasingly seek partners who are allies in ambition and life goals, not just traditional companionship.

Family and Societal Expectations

The challenge of independence is amplified by familial and societal pressures. “A lot of women, as they understand who they are and what they want from life, aren’t finding the right support. Most of the time, it’s their own families holding them back… there’s a lot of fight just to go out and do it,” Supriya explains.

Even subtle, internalised pressures play a role.

“The whole family's voice comes. There's a lot of ‘auntie’ voice that we already create in our own head… which nobody's saying, but you have those running around. So it becomes very difficult to break free.”

Support or the lack of it also affects romantic relationships. Supriya says, “Once you have a partner who's also not so supportive, you feel like, okay, I don’t want a partner because my dreams are important too. But if I don’t get a supportive partner, I might as well do it myself.”

Her reflection illustrates a broader shift in priorities. Independence and personal ambition are non-negotiable for many women today. Choosing to remain single is not a rejection of love, but an affirmation of self-worth.

The Cultural Disconnect

Supriya also points out the tension between modern women and traditional Indian society. “More and more bold and modern women are going to find it very difficult to connect with the Indian setup,” she says. Women who are ambitious, assertive, and self-reliant often navigate a delicate balance between cultural expectations and personal aspirations.

Redefining Modern Womanhood

Supriya Srivastav’s experience reflects a quiet transformation in India. Women are asserting independence, prioritising their dreams, and redefining what it means to lead a meaningful life. Her message is straightforward:

 “If I don’t get a supportive partner, I might as well do it myself.”

This shift is not just personal; it challenges societal norms and expectations. Supporting women, respecting their ambitions, and encouraging independence are no longer optional; they are essential. In embracing autonomy, women are reshaping modern India, one decision at a time.

Watch the full conversation here.

Views expressed by the author are their own.