This talk explores the complex interplay between gender, power, and the lingering psychological effects of colonialism in Indian politics. It examines how colonial-era structures and ideologies have shaped contemporary gender dynamics in governance, leadership, and policy-making. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by women and marginalized genders in political participation, representation, and decision-making. By revisiting the psychology of colonialism, the talk aims to uncover deep-seated biases, systemic inequalities, and the ongoing struggle for gender equity in India’s political landscape. Through historical and contemporary perspectives, it encourages a critical reflection on how power structures can be redefined for a more inclusive and equitable democracy. Dr. Ananya Vajpeyi completed her Ph.D. at the University of Chicago. She is a scholar and writer working at the intersection of intellectual history, political theory, and critical philology. She is currently completing a book about the modern life of Sanskrit for W.W. Norton. An anthology of her essays on cities is forthcoming from Women Unlimited. She is a Research Consultant with the Nilgiri Archaeological Project at the University of Ghent, Belgium; Editor of AROOP (Journal of the Raza Foundation) from 2019 to 2024; and a Visiting Professor at Ashoka University, where she teaches a Foundation Course on Great Books. She writes extensively for newspapers and magazines in India and internationally on arts, culture, gender, politics, and ideas. In addition to her intellectual contributions, she frequently engages in public education by writing articles for newspapers. Through her scholarship, she represents feminist contributions to knowledge and discourse in India and abroad. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx