About cookedorcrooked
A space for women to share their truths about navigating patriarchal structures
Our Mission
cookedorcrooked exists because too many women's stories remain untold—silenced by shame, expectation, or the fear of being judged.
We publish raw, honest narratives about the realities of living under patriarchal structures. From the complexities of marriage to the weight of belief systems shaped by fear, from societal expectations that demand our silence to the hard-won journeys toward liberation.
These are not perfect stories. They are messy, complicated, and deeply human. They challenge the narratives we've been taught to accept without question.
The Author & Founder
Cooked or Crooked was created and founded by Diksha Tiwari, a highly experienced HR leader who has spent over a decade professionally and personally engaging with women from every walk of life.
In corporate rooms, interviews, performance conversations, and quiet one-on-ones, Diksha has heard stories that rarely make it into official reports—stories about compromise, quiet endurance, secret dreams, and the psychology of staying in systems that don't always see women as whole people.
Her work in HR gave her a front-row seat to how belief systems, family expectations, marriage, workplace culture, and patriarchy intertwine. Over the years, she began to notice patterns in how women absorb, internalise, and sometimes slowly unlearn these narratives.
Cooked or Crooked is her way of honouring those conversations —a space where the personal is not dismissed as “too emotional,” but recognised as data, wisdom, and truth.
Diksha Tiwari — Founder, Cooked or Crooked
Why "cookedorcrooked"?
The name reflects the impossible binary women face: conform to expectations (be "cooked" into the role society demands) or resist and be labeled as "crooked," difficult, or broken.
But what if neither option tells the full story? What if we can exist beyond these labels? What if our truth is more complex, more nuanced, more powerful than the boxes we're forced into?
That's what we explore here.
What We Cover
Marriage & Partnership
The gap between romantic ideals and lived realities. Power dynamics, expectations, and the search for genuine partnership.
Belief Systems
Unpacking faith shaped by fear, questioning inherited beliefs, and exploring spirituality beyond patriarchal control.
Societal Expectations
The pressure to be "good," quiet, accommodating. And the cost of breaking free from those expectations.
Liberation & Freedom
Stories of finding voice, reclaiming agency, and defining life on our own terms.
Our Values
Honesty Over Perfection
We value raw truth over polished narratives. Real stories are messy, and that's okay.
Complexity Over Simplicity
Women's experiences with patriarchy are nuanced. We resist easy answers and binary thinking.
Community Over Isolation
No one should feel alone in their struggle. We create space for connection and solidarity.
Liberation Over Compliance
We believe in women's right to define their own lives, free from patriarchal control.
Share Your Story
Do you have a story to tell? We welcome submissions from women navigating patriarchal structures, questioning inherited beliefs, or finding their way to liberation.
Get in Touch