Embracing Nari Shakti at Sister Nivedita University

Urvi Teresa Gomes, Kolkata: Like seeds carried by the winds of change, the call of ‘Nari shakti’ or ‘woman empowerment’ carries the promise of a world transformed, a world where the shackles of inequality are shattered and the wings of possibility unfurl. It is a call that beckons us to recognize the intrinsic worth and potential of every soul, irrespective of gender, and to nurture a society where the light of empowerment illuminates every path.

On the 5th of August, 2023, the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), in collaboration with Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate hosted ‘Baaghini 2’— a four-day long women empowerment programme at Sister Nivedita University campus. The main purpose of the event was to empower women with self-defence skills that boost their confidence. The inaugural event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Mr. Gaurav Sharma (IPS, Hon’ble Commissioner of Police), Ms. Charu Sharma (IPS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Detective Department, Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate), Ms. Debarati Mukhopadhyay (Author), Mr. Sanjay K Jain (Chairman, ICC National Committee on Textiles and Managing Director, TT Limited), and Prof. Dhrubajyoti Chattopadhyay (Vice Chancellor, Sister Nivedita University).

Why should women be empowered, some may ask. The answer is woven into the fabric of our shared humanity, embroidered with threads of justice, compassion, and wisdom. A woman is not merely an individual; she is the harbinger of change, a catalyst for progress, and a guardian of legacy. In the heart of every nation lies a radiant flame, a beacon that guides its people towards progress, unity, and greatness. This flame is fueled by the indomitable spirit of its citizens, and it burns even brighter when women are empowered to take their rightful place as architects of change and guardians of the future. The empowerment of women is not only a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for any nation aspiring to achieve its fullest potential.

History has been painted with the stories of women and their achievements: stories that often remain hidden in the shadows. Yet, every stroke of progress, every stitch of change, has been sewn by the hands of women who dared to challenge norms, break barriers, and pioneer new horizons. The concept of Nari Shakti is not a radical agenda; it is the realisation of the legacy they have crafted through struggles and triumphs. It is a recognition that the pages of history must be illuminated by the stories of women who have shaped destinies, driven revolutions, and sculpted the narrative of human advancement.

While explaining the initiative, Mr. Gaurav Sharma said, “Empowering women goes beyond words; it is a commitment to action. [ . . . ] We empower women to become strong and confident through a series of workshops, self-defence techniques, martial arts, and interactive sessions. Our main focus is on enabling women who may not be familiar with self-defence techniques to gain valuable skills through physical training and self-defence sessions. These sessions are expertly led by Miss Mona Lisa, a renowned national boxing champion with extensive experience. One crucial aspect we emphasize is the importance of self-perception and how we perceive others, particularly when it comes to interactions with the police force. We encourage open communication and aim to foster a positive interface with law enforcement. [ . . . ] Experts are here to help you and provide valuable insights into law enforcement and related processes. Their experience and knowledge can be a great resource for all of us. Let us continue to strive for excellence and work towards a safer and more secure community. Together, we can make a difference and build a fearless and independent nation.”

True strength is forged through Nari Shakti. The call for women’s empowerment is not an indictment of one gender, but a celebration of humanity’s potential. It is a plea to dismantle the pedestals, to recognize that the power of one should not diminish the power of another. It is a demand for justice, for fairness, and for the recognition that the elevation of women does not lessen anyone else but enriches the tapestry of existence.

Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Charu Sharma said, “The programme of Baaghini is about giving confidence to go into the world and face all the challenges. Being a member of the force, I’ve realised that women tend to hold back due to a lack of confidence; as a result, our goal is to help you feel at ease in your surrounding legal environment and to educate you on what to do and the applicable laws in the event of an issue.”

Author Debarati Mukhopadhyay has said, “When I first learned about Baaghini, I questioned the rationale behind discriminating between men and women. Our historical records reveal the presence of formidable women such as Gargi, Apala, and Lopamudra, who stood on equal footing with men in terms of education, culture, and intellect. However, societal shifts led to the subjugation and marginalisation of women over time. We have made significant progress in empowering women, and if we eschew toxic masculinity, women are in no way inferior to men. [ . . . ] This initiative holds the potential to impart valuable knowledge to young girls and propel them towards a promising future.”

In the spectrum of human potential, each gender contributes distinct hues, creating a richer and more vibrant palette of capabilities. The empowerment of women does not seek to supplant men but to weave their talents into the mosaic of societal progress. A nation that empowers its women embraces its own potential for excellence. It taps into the full spectrum of talents, perspectives, and ideas, unearthing treasures that lie dormant when only half of the population is allowed to shine. The ‘Baaghini 2’ programme aims to recognise the immense contribution of women to Indian society and to nurture them into becoming agents of change.