SHE is a daughter, a mother, a wife, and a leader. From sacrifices at home to commanding spaces once deemed unimaginable, women have done it all. Every woman’s life is a symbol of already fought societal norms, unbreakable strength, unshattrable confidence and living grace. SHE is a force, a beacon and change, writes ABHI SINGHAL

I grew up in a normal middle-class joint family. From a young age, I have seen my mother, a master's degree holder in Mathematics which was a huge deal in the 1990's, working eighteen hours a day as a homemaker. Her journey, fraught with obstacles and setbacks, revealed the harsh reality of how women's dreams were

systematically stifled, even after years of dedication, sacrificed in the name of marriage and domesticity. It was a revelation that struck a deep chord for a silent lament for countless unfulfilled aspirations. In the same family, my sister and I had strict timings for returning home.

Mahila, Aurat, Nari, whatever you call her, she has always been categorised into different bases in life in vast job roles, but those were always restricted to the domain of her home. In India, women have largely been confined within the four walls of their homes, entrusted with the responsibility of managing the household and raising children. Their clothing choices, curfews, lifestyle, and behavior have long been dictated by societal norms and patriarchy. Any deviation from these expectations is seen as defiance and often equated with a decline in moral values.

Time moved forward, western influence came in and scenarios started taking turns, women started stepping out for work and everything changed. Slowly, almost imperceptibly at first, the rigid structures that had defined a woman's existence began to show cracks. The long-held idea of women confined to hearth and home with domestic threads, began to fray. The world outside, once a forbidden territory, beckoned. Doors, previously firmly shut, creaked open, revealing the promise of new horizons for the literate women. This International Women's Day, it's important to remember the countless struggles faced by generations of women. The fight for equality has been long and arduous, marked by societal barriers and entrenched prejudices. Even now, despite significant progress, women continue to move through a world where their contributions are often undervalued. They strive not just for financial independence, but for something far more profound: respect and dignity. The desire to live a life on their own terms, free from the constraints of outdated expectations, fuels their determination. Many women are working tirelessly, balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities. They seek a future where their voices are heard, their talents are recognised and their dreams are within reach and not pressure.

Yet, amidst the general narratives of limitation, stories of extraordinary defiance emerge. Women, with an undying spirit, have ventured into segments previously deemed unimaginable, shattering the foundations of societal expectations. They carved paths where none existed, proving that ambition knows no gender. Consider the women who drive auto rickshaws through the chaotic city streets, their hands firm on the wheel, their eyes fixed on a future they are building.  Witness the rural women at a construction site,  carrying their babies  on the back and bricks on their head.

A recent example was witnessed during the Mahakumbh Mela. A video from New Delhi Railway Station went viral, showing a mother in uniform with her child strapped to her front, holding a lathi in one hand while maintaining peace and order at the station.

Each of these roles comes with its own set of hardships and often the lack of respect from those who are not used to seeing women in these roles. Stories of such women are etched in courage and perseverance, are the true celebration of Women's Day. They deserve our respect, support, and endless celebration.

The Durga Incarnates

Despite being nature's greatest marvel, women have long been denied the respect and autonomy they deserve. Forced to navigate paths imposed by others, many Indian women have dared to challenge these norms, rewriting the rules and forging their destinies. They dare, they challenge societal norms. Here are a few of them who have excelled and made their mark despite all odds in different fields that were a taboo.

Kiran Bedi: The first woman IPS officer

As India's first female IPS officer, she broke barriers in a male-dominated force, transforming challenges into opportunities. Her journey from towing the Prime Minister's car for illegal parking to reforming Tihar Jail, demonstrates how determination and the right support can overturn deep-seated biases. Raised in an environment where education and independence were encouraged, she never let societal expectations define her aspirations.” Any girl child who is loved by her parents and given the vision and resources to realise her potential is ready to take on the world. as I was,” says Kiran Bedi.

But entering a profession dominated by men was not without its challenges. The biases and prejudices were apparent. “The prevailing biases and prejudices inspired me to question them. And prove them wrong. Which I did. It gave me a sense of achievement” she added.

Nidhi Salgame: The off-roader making her path

Nidhi Salgame, founder of Wander Beyond Boundaries, exemplifies excellence in a field where skill matters more than gender. An accomplished off-roader and explorer, Nidhi has overcome stereotypes and judgment by letting her actions speak for themselves. Nidhi says,” You just have to prove yourself again and again. I faced judgment, and immense stereotyping. I had to prove myself twice over, just for people to acknowledge my skills. That's not a burden any man would carry, yet it was placed on me. But in the end, actions speak louder than words.”  She further added that the outdoors does not judge you by gender. The machine doesn't treat you differently. It is a leveller. And that's what makes it so liberating. Her journey has never been about fitting into stereotypes or shattering them, it has been about mastering what she does and doing it exceptionally well. 

In off-roading extreme overland expeditions, capability is the measure of success.

Pooja Sharma: An activist who defied traditions

A social activist who turned personal tragedy into a mission of dignity. After witnessing her brother's untimely death, she vowed to honour those forgotten by society. Defying long-held traditions that barred women from performing last rites, Pooja armed herself with knowledge from ancient scriptures and has since bestowed dignity on over 5,000 unclaimed bodies. In a society where women are excluded from cremation grounds, Pooja stood as a lone warrior.

When she attempted to perform the last rites, temple priests blocked her path. “I started reading the Vedas, our scriptures, the Shiv Puran, the Garud Puran. Nowhere is it written that women cannot perform last rites” said Pooja.

Armed with knowledge, she fought against centuries-old beliefs and proved that religion did not forbid women from giving dignity to the departed. Together, these women embody a spirit that transcends societal constraints. They remind us that while rules may exist, they do not define the power of a woman, the true force of creation, resilience, and change.

Women Who Scripted History

Kalpana Chawla's journey to space was an example to her extraordinary intellect and courage. She became an icon, inspiring countless young women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her dedication to exploration and scientific advancement left an indelible mark on the world. During the wonders that she did, her life was tragically cut short but her legacy continues to propel humanity's quest for knowledge.

Sarla Thakral, in 1936, became India's first female pilot. At 21, she flew a Gypsy Moth, defying societal norms. Her courage shattered barriers, inspiring generations. Her achievement symbolised female empowerment, proving women's capabilities in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her legacy is one of resilience and pioneering spirit..

Sania Mirza's victory in the 2005 WTA Hyderabad Open doubles title was a watershed moment for Indian tennis. She shattered glass ceilings, proving that Indian women could excel in international sports. Her powerful serves and unwavering spirit inspired a generation of aspiring athletes. Mirza's success not only elevated Indian tennis but also empowered women to pursue their dreams.

Bachendri Pal's ascent of Everest in 1984 etched her name into history. With unflinching determination, she conquered the world's highest peak, inspiring generations of Indian women. Her courage shattered barriers, proving that no summit is too high to reach. Pal's achievement is a testimony to the strength and resilience of women and a beacon of hope.

Sushmita Sen's victory at Miss Universe 1994 transcended beauty pageants. She became a symbol of grace and intelligence, showcasing the modern Indian woman to the world. Her poise and eloquence captivated audiences, shattering stereotypes and empowering young girls to dream big. Sen's triumph was a moment of national pride, highlighting India's evolving identity on the global stage.

Bidisha Mukherjee: Breaking Barriers in Governance and Tourism

Entering the IAS amid a traditionally male realm, she now leads initiatives at the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board that empower women and promote sustainable tourism. Her work proves that when women lead, they not only participate but they redefine the landscape. Under her leadership, initiatives like women-run hotels, such as Amaltas, have not only created economic independence for women but also reshaped the tourism landscape in Madhya Pradesh.

“The desire to create meaningful change led me from teaching to public administration. While the gender imbalance in governance was a challenge, I saw it as a chance to redefine norms.” said Bidisha. Her initiatives have set new benchmarks, proving that when women are given platform, they don't just participate they lead.

— By Divya Bhatia