Mahanad of womanhood in Amritamahotsava of freedom

- Antar - Raksha Shukla

Progress of a country or society is impossible without women empowerment. The progress of any country can be measured by the condition of the people in that country. Reverend Ravi Shankar Maharaj has welcomed the power of women by replacing the old-fashioned, useless word 'Abla' with an honorable word like 'Atibla'. Today women have also made that word meaningful by showing it alive. Its decline started after the eighteenth century. 'Nee Swatrantyam Arhati' was said to be over. All the doors of development were opened for him. 'Dhol, gamar, shudra, animal, woman, ye sab tadan ke adhikari.' After reading it, one thinks that this can be considered for many glamorous women like Chanda Kochhar, Indra Nooyi, Arundhati Roy, Shreya Ghoshal, Kiran Bedi, Smriti Irani, Tambhara, Sindhutai Sapkal or ice cream lady Rajni Bector? No matter how many women who have received Padma awards or Narishakti awards have selflessly dedicated their entire lives for the glory and culture of the country, will we consider the invaluable contribution of those who have lived for others to be insignificant? It is good that we have so many loud and indomitable voices like Tambhara, Booker prize winner Gitanjali or Sri K Sita Raman. It is good that those fearless voices have awakened other femininity.

When we talk about the glorious history of India, the important and excellent contribution of women in it cannot be overlooked at all. There have been many changes in the status of women in the medieval period, from being male-dominated in ancient times. This equal right of the Jews has also been raised by the reformists. The history of the status of Indian women is full of many important events. The efforts of all Indians are involved in the pleasant changes that are taking place in the country today. 'Sab ka saath, sab ka vikas, sab ka vishwas and sabka tryas' is becoming the basic mantra of the country.

When the world was in a deep abyss of ignorance and the thinking for women was very backward, India used to worship this mother power as a goddess. Even centuries ago, women made progress in the fields of politics, education, literature and religion. If we recall history, Razia Sultan was the only female ruler to rule Delhi. Many capable women like Rani Durgavati, Mata Jijabai, Chandbibi, Noor Jahan or Jahanara have to be remembered here. There we have women like Gargi, Maitrayi, Arundhati and Madalsa who gave knowledge to the society but also used to share knowledge with male scholars. Even in the troubled middle ages, this country produced great women like Pannadai and Mirambai. Saint-poet devotional movements like Mirambai also restored the respect of women. From Rani Chennamma of Kidhur, Matangini, Hajra, Rani Lakshmibai, Jalkaribai of Viranga to Ahalyabai Hodkar and Savitribai Phule in the social sphere, these goddesses shaped India's identity. Many women reformers like Pandit Ramabai helped lead the cause of women's upliftment. Over time, traditions such as Sati or Jauhar, Devdasi or Parda, child marriages etc. were banned. Anandibai Joshi went to America to become a doctor in a conservative environment where women's place was considered to be in the kitchen and it was considered a sin to go abroad alone. Chandramukhi Basu or Kadambani Ganguly were among the women in India who achieved high academic qualifications during that time.

How many women have given their sacrifices in the Amrit Mohotsav of Azadi in which the country is remembering the history of freedom struggle. The country is remembering with pride the contribution of women power in the freedom struggle and trying to fulfill their dreams. Bhikhaji Kama in India's freedom struggle, Dr. Many women like Annie Besant, Vijayalakshmi Pandit, Aruna Ashaf Ali, Sucheta Kriplani, Muthulakshmi Reddy, Durgabai Deshmukh or Kasturba Gandhi played important roles. Subhash Chandra Bose's Indian National Army had the Rani Lakshmibai Regiment of Jhansi, made up entirely of women, including Captain Lakshmi Sehgal. Sarojini Naidu, poet and freedom fighter, was the first Indian woman President of the Indian National Congress, and the first woman Governor of an Indian state. Indira Gandhi served as the Prime Minister of India for a total of 15 years. This is the longest tenure as a woman Prime Minister in the world.

Feminist movement gained momentum in India from the late 1970s. Later, the Mathura rape case of 1972 was the first incident to bring several women's groups together at the national level. Many women activists organized on issues like feticide, gender discrimination, women's health and women's literacy. Chandrakant Bakshi has said that 'One has to pay a price, for every happiness. The cost of keeping one's eyes closed and also of keeping one's eyes open.' If you keep your eyes closed, then you have to live by excluding yourself.. If you keep your eyes open, then you have to struggle.' That's why Bakshisaheb adds that in the morning at the tea table when she can read the print before her husband does, it will be considered a great achievement. Australian feminist writer G.D. Anderson says that “Feminism isn't about making women strong. Women are already strong. It's about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”

Looking at the pace, progress or status of women, sometimes it seems that the picture of the 21st century has not changed much from the previous century. They have become a little open in thinking, speaking, writing, expressing or discussing, but somewhere, in some corner, there is still a rift of religion or casteism. Where even giant personalities like 'Rajarammohan Rai' or 'Ilaben Bhatt' or tribal women activist 'Birubala Rabha' are helpless. The journey of such prominent women is often bloody. To reach a certain height he has to blame Panday for small things. But he fights. Today, if the daughter speaks, she is not a cow, but a lioness of Gir. In 2015, the United Nations gave the slogan 'Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity' for Women's Day. Today's slogan is 'Planet 50-50 by 2030 step it up for gender equality.' It means that by the year 2030 the world will move forward for gender equality in a 50-50 way, women will get equal rights in every field. Being a woman she will not face any kind of discrimination.

Today there is no field where it does not have a proud entry. The contribution of women to the country is significant in fields like sports, education, politics, art and culture, wildlife conservation, social service, science and technology, trade and commerce, aerospace, organic farming, medical science or biotechnology. Be it Lok Sabha or international banking, army or corporate culture, piloting or homemaker, the contribution of women can be counted as more than 70%.

These women who prove to be supreme in every field have sound decision making ability, positive thinking, determination to reach the goal, personal skills, leadership which can make team work through organization, ability to change people's attitudes, readiness for hard work, intimacy with fellow employees and work tactfully. Apart from having skills, knowledge of modern technology, there are many qualities like generosity and resilience to accept new ideas or suggestions. There are also many schemes going on from the government for women empowerment which act as catalysts to empower women spiritually, politically, socially and physically. The contribution of innumerable women who keep our culture, civilization and traditions alive is rooted in our ancient traditions and heritage, but also stretches endlessly in the sky of modernity. Along with development we have to protect and nurture our spirituality and diversity as well as continuously modernize technology, infrastructure, education and health systems. Draupadi Murmu, who recently became President, is a shining example of femininity. In modern India, women have graced many high positions like President, Prime Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Leader of Opposition etc. Women have already waved their flag in space.

Today, daughters' dreams of studying in Sainik schools are coming true. Now any daughter of the country can take up important responsibilities by joining the army for the security of the nation. Captain Prem Mathur, who opened the skies for women, was the first Indian woman to become a professional pilot. 'I am made for space. Kalpana Chawla was an Indian-American astronaut who said, 'I will spend every moment in space and die in space'. Flight Lieutenant, Sky Warrior Avni Chaturvedi is the first Indian woman pilot to fly an Indian fighter plane.

Science and technology are most beneficial for the progress of the country. The contribution of Indian women in science and technology and entrepreneurship has been exemplary. He has proved that he works tirelessly to take the business to the pinnacle of success. It becomes an example for the next generation. Pratithi 'India National Tech Excellence Award for Women' is being conferred to honor Indian women scientists and entrepreneurs from 2022 on the special occasion of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Asima Chatterjee was an Indian organic chemist who was the first woman to receive a Doctorate of Science from an Indian university. Indira Hinduja created history despite being a woman by giving birth to India's first test tube baby Dr. Alka Mittal is the interim chairman and managing director of the company.

There are many women in the country who have proved that 'one should not dream of success, one has to work hard for it.' The 'Nari Shakti Award' has been presented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India since 1999, in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the empowerment of women, for distinguished service to a marginalized woman or organization. Which are given to women as game changers and catalysts of positive change in society. These women have not been hindered by age, geographical limitations or insufficient resources in their path of achievement. Her indomitable adventure will inspire the society and especially the young Indian psyche to break gender stereotypes and stand against gender inequality and discrimination. These awards are an attempt to recognize women as equal partners in the progress of the country and society. In 2021 and 2022, many women were honored with 'Nari Shakti Award' and Padma Awards by the then President. A cursory glance at the achievements of such few women in different fields would make a big book.

But some of those women should….

Anjana Om Kashyap is a fearless personality who is a veteran journalist and news anchor. President of Prasar Bharti, Mrinal Pandey is a television personality, journalist and an accomplished writer. Latika Nath, awarded the honorary title of 'Her Daringness', is an Indian writer, photographer and wildlife conservationist. Surekha Yadav is the first woman train driver of Indian Railways. Sushma Swaraj, who entered politics from Emergency, was an Indian politician and an able advocate of the Supreme Court. Smriti Irani is a television actress, successful woman politician and Minister for Women and Child Development. A giant, extraordinary personality Homay Vyarawala was the country's first and best woman photojournalist.

A prime example of empowerment, Lijjat Papad founder Jaswantiben Popat has grown Lijjat's business to 1600 crores with 45,000 women workers. Nita Ambani is a director of Reliance Industries, handling social and corporate affairs of Reliance. Patricia Narayan from Chennai, who inspired many women with her struggle story, started earning 50 paise per day in 'Sandipa' restaurant channel which has reached 2 lakhs today. 'Ice Cream Lady' Rajni Bektor's business started with biscuits in the kitchen and ice cream in a wooden vat in the backyard, which today has spread like a banyan tree and stands before us as the glorious 'Cremica'. Vandana Luthra, founder of Fanbhab Health Care Limited, a leader in the Indian beauty and wellness industry, is one of the most prominent Indian entrepreneurs. Shahnaz Hussain, a renowned beauty expert and the CEO of Dashenaz Herbals, the world's largest herbal beauty products company, is one of the most successful business women. Mumbai-born Neeta Loola is a costume designer and fashion stylist. Ekta Kapoor is a powerful female producer of Indian films, TV and digital web series.

Where did the silver medal come from? Baby ko gold saham hai.' : These are the words of Deepa Malik who overcame her handicap and won 54 National Gold Medals and 13 International Medals. Arunima Sinha is the first Indian disabled woman to climb Mount Everest. The first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest, Bachendripal is the fifth woman mountaineer in the world to reach the height of Everest. Mithali Raj, the captain of the Indian Test and ODI women's cricket team, is the highest run-scorer in international women's cricket. Weight lifter 'Silver Girl' Mirabai Chanu, Mary Kam, Saina Nehwal etc are names who have made India's history proud.

રેમન મેગ્સેસે એવોર્ડ વિજેતા કિરણ બેદી, સામાજિક કાર્યકર અને ગાંધીવાદી, સંસ્થા VLCC ના સ્થાપક ઈલા ભટ્ટ, ઝારખંડને ચૂડેલ નામના કલંકથી મુક્ત કરનાર ૬૨ વર્ષની શેરની છુટનીદેવી, સૌથી મોટી પુનર્વસન બિન-સરકારી સંસ્થા 'પ્રજ્વલા'ના મુખ્ય અધિકારી અને સહસંસ્થાપક તથા સામાજિક કાર્યકર સુનીતા ક્રિશ્નન આદિનું સમાજને અર્પણ કરાયેલ અવિસ્મરણીય પ્રદાન તેમને મુઠ્ઠી ઊંચેરા માનવી બનાવે છે. હિન્દી ભાષાના અત્યંત ઊંચા દરજ્જાના કવયિત્રી એટલે મહાદેવી વર્મા જ્ઞાાનપીઠ જેવા મોટા પુરસ્કારથી સન્માનિત હતા. ગુજરાતમાં જન્મેલા, જ્ઞાાનપીઠ પુરસ્કાર(૨૦૧૭)થી સન્માનિત કૃષ્ણા સોબતી પ્રખ્યાત હિન્દી વાર્તાકાર હતા. બળવાખોર, ફાયરબ્રાન્ડ લેખિકા ઈસ્મત ચુગતાઈ ઉર્દૂ સાહિત્યના સર્વાધિક વિવાદાસ્પદ અને સર્વપ્રમુખ લેખિકા હતા. શિક્ષણના ક્ષેત્રમાં પ્રાદેશિક અને રાષ્ટ્રીય કક્ષાએ ગુજરાતના પ્રથમ મહિલા શિક્ષણમંત્રી ઈન્દુમતીબહેન શેઠનું સતત યોગદાન રહ્યું.

સૂરસામ્રાજ્ઞાી લતાજી ભારતની શાન છે. જેમણે ગાયેલ જરા અઘરી તરજવાળું ગીત એક વાર રેડિયો પર સાંભળીને ઉસ્તાદ બડે ગુલામઅલી ખાં બોલી ઉઠયા હતા, 'કમબખ્ત કભી બેસૂરી નહીં હોતી!'ભારતરત્ન પ્રાપ્ત કરનાર કર્ણાટકી સંગીત ગાયિકા 'તપસ્વિની' એમ. એસ. સુબ્બુલક્ષ્મી, પ્રથમ ભારતીય તબલાવાદક ડો. આબાન મિી, ભારતના ઉત્તમ મહિલા ભિતી ચિત્રકાર પદ્મશ્રી અંજલી ઈલા મેનન, જાણીતા શિલ્પકાર, કલાકાર, કલા સમીક્ષક, પ્રાધ્યાપક તથા સાહિત્યકાર એસ્થર ડેવિડ, અમદાવાદના વિશ્વવિખ્યાત ભારતીય કથક નૃત્યાંગના અને નૃત્ય નિર્દેશિકા કુમુદિની લાખિયા, વિખ્યાત સિતારવાદક અને શાીય સંગીતનાં શિક્ષણ અને પ્રસારને વરેલી 'સપ્તક સ્કૂલ ઓફ મ્યૂઝિક'ના સ્થાપક સભ્યોમાંના એક વિદૂષી મંજુ મહેતા જેવી અનેક તેજસ્વી સન્નારીઓ ભારતના ગૌરવને વધારે છે.

આઝાદીના આ અમૃત મહોત્સવમાં આપણું ધ્યાન ભવિષ્ય તરફ કેન્દ્રિત થયેલું હોવું જોઈએ જેમાં માતૃશક્તિનો પૂરેપૂરો મહિમા થાય એ પણ જોવાનું છે. દેશના દરેક નાગરિકે સમજવું રહ્યું કે આઝાદીના અમૃતકાળનો આ સમય સૂતાં સૂતાં સપનાં જોવાનો નથી, પણ જાગૃત બનીને પોતાના સંકલ્પ પૂરાં કરવાનો છે. 'જહાઁ ડાલ ડાલ પર સોને કી ચિડિયા કરતી હૈ બસેરા' શબ્દોને દેશની ઓળખ બનવવાના છે. આવનારા વર્ષોમાં કર્તવ્ય, કામ તરફની નિષ્ઠા, પરિશ્રમની પરાકાષ્ઠા, ત્યાગ, તપ અને તપસ્યાથી આપણા ભારત દરેક મહિલાએ પોતાનું સ્વપ્ન સાચું પાડવા 'યેન કેન પ્રકારેણ' જીવનની અંતિમ ક્ષણ સુધી મથવું જોઈએ. નારી વગરના સમાજની કોઈ કલ્પના પણ ન કરી શકે. અને નારીએ પોતાના અનિવાર્ય અને અડગ સ્થાન માટેની લાયકાત અને તેની મહત્તા સુપેરે સાબિત કરી છે. નારીચેતનાની ઝળહળ જ્યોતનું અજવાળું પરિવાર, સમાજ અને દેશના કેટલા બધા ખૂણાને અજવાળે છે જ્યાંથી પસાર થતા કોઈ પણ નારીમાં નવી ઉર્જાનો સંચાર થાય છે.

ઇતિ

આજે જે પુરુષાર્થ છે તે જ કાલનું ભાગ્ય છે.

-પોલ શિટર