New Delhi witnessed a profound discussion on International Women’s Day at the ‘Bharati: From Nari to Narayani’ national conference held at Vigyan Bhawan. On the second day, panelists delved deep into women’s empowerment, blending tradition with modern needs.
Former Rajya Sabha MP Rakesh Sinha set the tone, highlighting India’s journey from grim child widowhood statistics in 1921—where 597 girls under one year were widowed—to today’s rational generation. ‘Girls must master martial arts, but equally vital is awakening the power of logic,’ he urged, emphasizing critical thinking alongside physical strength.
Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chair of Sangeet Natak Akademi, reinforced cultural roots. ‘Good people, society, and art remain incomplete without women’s power,’ she stated, invoking ‘Nari, tum Narayani ho.’ Her vision: instill sensitivity through arts, not mere technical training, ensuring future generations honor culture.
Dr. S. Mahesh, Kalaripayattu master and founder of Agastya Foundation, drew from mythology. ‘Deities wield weapons symbolizing warrior strength, yet today’s hidden female warriors cower in fear,’ he observed. Recalling battle-hardened queens, he called for unleashing that latent power.
The session underscored a holistic approach: physical prowess, logical reasoning, and cultural reverence to transform women from ‘Nari’ to divine ‘Narayani’, inspiring a empowered future.