In a society where it was once unheard for women to even be educated, the modern Indian women carve out a new identity in the society and are coming up as achievers. Similar is the story of Shyamu Bai, a young girl, who broke the boundaries of confined orthodox values and fearlessly walked towards her dream. In a rendezvous with The Pioneer, Shyamu shared her story of struggle and sheer success.
“I got married when I was a child. Due to bad financial conditions of my family, my parents got me married and I was tied in the chains of child marriage. Soon after the marriage, when I reached the age of 12 my in-laws began forcing my family for bidaai to which I was totally against. I sternly refused to go with my in-laws and continued my studies,” said Shyamu, while sharing her story. “As all this was happening, me and my family with the help of Women Empowerment Officer Sabir Ali Siddiqui got to know about Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. After knowing all my rights, I decided to file for the divorce so that I can study to achieve my goal. I got divorced in 2014.”
Now 21-year-old, Shyamu Bai is a dalit girl from Agar Malwa, Madhya Pradesh. Wanting to be a police officer, Shyamu struggled to accomplish her goals breaking all the ties of conventional tradition of child marriage. “Since childhood, I had a strong flair to be a police officer. To achieve this dream, I had to face a lot of things in my life, but this is life and this is how it goes,” she added confidently.
The discriminated and exploited women are seen all over the world but there are few examples like Shyamu, who have the capability to achieve what they desire for. To unburden her family expenses, Shyamu teaches at village school and give coaching to the children. “I have seen small girls getting married forcefully at such a tender age when they do not know what marriage is all about. I want all these girls to come up and stand for their rights. It is very important for their bright future,” said Shyamu.
Shyamu was conferred with award on International Women’s Day by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan. On this achievement, Shyamu said, “I am very happy to receive this award. This may set an example for other girls.” She signed off and said, “The city girls easily achieve their dreams, but it is now time for village girls to take a stand for themselves and be self dependent and confident.”
Women Empowerment Officer Sabir Ali Siddiqui said, “Right now, she is pursuing her BA so we are first focusing on her studies, with the time, we will plan a bright future for her. She is definitely an inspirational example for our society.”