An Indian film star joined female workers to celebrate International Women’s Day this week.
Fahadh Faasil, who is a famous South Indian actor, spent an evening at Chicago Ladies camp in Al Quoz 2, thrilling more than 200 women workers.
"This is the first time I’ve celebrated women’s day with blue-collar workers and I will never forget it. For me, this is the most beautiful place, where hundreds of women live together and support their families back home. They are real heroes," he said.
Faasil, 34, answered questions, posed for pictures and danced to famous South Indian songs.
Gopalkumar Bhargavan, chief marketing officer of UAE Exchange, which organised the event, said that most of the women in the camp were their family’s breadwinners. "We cannot ignore the women workforce any more. Celebrating women’s day with them is an acknowledgment towards their contribution both to their homes and society at-large," he said.
Despite having worked a long day, Jincy Joho made a point of attending the event. "I was tired but how could I miss my hero today? It’s a dream come true. I am wearing my most expensive dress today," said 34-year-old, who has worked as a bus conductor in a local school for more than three years.
Ms Joho supports her husband, two children and parents in India with her salary of Dh1,300 per month. "We have lots of loans and I am working here to pay debts. It’s a hard and lonely life. I am away from my children and home but, today, I am feeling special. My favourite hero is here."
Earlier in the day a local community group gave a surprise lunch party to the women workers. Women of Worth, a female networking group based in The Greens, took them to The Palace hotel in Downtown Dubai for the party.
"This is the best surprise I have ever received. A routine working day has suddenly becomes a special day for all of us. I am having my favourite meal in the most exotic place in Dubai," said 37-year-old Naumi Nduata from Kenya, who works as a concierge for Emaar.

Source : The National