Women's Day - one day of the year when the focus is on the fairer sex. Keeping with the spirit of the day, we asked menfrom different fields what they feel about this day, and on the women who have influenced their lives.

I think everyday should be women's day. Personally speaking, I've been influenced by women all through my life. Most of the paintings I've done in the last 20 years have been inspired by women and have focused on women. I owe my success to women. Most of the galleries where my works are displayed - both in India and abroad - are run by women. In my personal life too, my mother and my daughter have had a lot of influence on me.

I lost my mother during my childhood. From what I vaguely remember, I have imbibed all the value systems that she has taught me. She went through a painful period since she was a cancer patient, but she always insisted on helping those around her. She was more a giver than a taker. After my mom, my life has revolved around my sisters without whom I would have been nowhere today. The cancer awareness foundation that I have floated with likeminded friends is in memory of my mother. I plan to do as much as I can to help those affected by cancer.

My mother works with the ministry of defence and is now based in Lucknow. But right now, she has taken time off and is with me in Delhi where I am competing. I dedicate each one of my medals to her. She accompanied me to the Olympics and other important tournaments and encouraged me. When I am down and out, she would tell me, "Just win this for my sake. Get those medals for me." And I would be charged up to play to the best of my abilities.

Yes, we definitely need a Women's day to celebrate the essence of a woman. They have been reaching great heights in every field. I would say that my wife has influenced my life the most. She has always been there and has boosted my morale and confidence whenever I needed it. She is my best critic. Vidya is like my mirror. She tells me what others don't tell me.

Anita, my wife, has influenced me the most. In my profession, I see a lot of women and see them wanting to live their own lives. My wife has understood all this and accepted me. I don't think I can ever do the same - accepting someone without any restrictions. Today, men and women are doing the same job and playing the same role. A woman is not any less than a man, but Women's day is a good day to recognise and celebrate womanhood.

The day assumed international importance following the Socialist International meeting in Copenhagen in 1910. The International Women's Day was observed for the first time on March 19 in nations like Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. Subsequently, in 1913-14, Russian women observed the day on the last Sunday of February as part of the peace movement soon after World War I.

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