On this International Women's Day, The Free Press Journal reflects on the resilience, determination and strength of women who continue to break barriers and defy societal expectations. From a househelp aspiring to restart her education to Pune's first female firefighter, we bring you stories of women who embody the spirit of perseverance.
Chitra Yadav (Househelp):
30-year-old househelp, Chitra Yadav, a resident of Nanded Gaon, always aspired to join the police force as a young girl. However, like many girls, her wings were clipped, and her dreams shattered when her parents got her married when she was in Class 9th. Now, as a mother of three kids, she wants her elder daughter to receive good education and become a police officer. "I'm content with what my fate and destiny have given me; I just want to restart my education and sit for the Class 10th board exams. I have now realised the importance of education. I was the youngest of three siblings and was married very young. Now, as a house help, I'm contributing to the household expenses. I want to give my girls what I never had - the freedom to choose what they want for their life and, at the very least, to have basic education," said Yadav.
Manisha Padhye (Automobile Adviser):
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Manisha Padhye (46) is an automobile adviser. In this male-dominated industry, there are very few women. It was her husband who pushed her and believed, helping her achieve what she truly wanted in life. "In 2016, I started working in a garage. My husband pushed me into this field, even though I had no interest in it initially. But slowly, I got involved in the work. Without realising it, I started enjoying it. I never noticed how the entire day would pass while working. I found immense joy in this work. I always wanted to do more and learn more. It was my husband who recognised my talent even before I did. I couldn't believe something like this could happen, but it did. Initially, I worked in a partnership, but after a year, I stepped out into the market on my own. For the past eight years, I have worked continuously with my husband's close friends, who own garages. This work gives me immense satisfaction. At the beginning of my journey, I faced many challenges, but I stood firm, without fear or hesitation, because I knew my goal. People criticised me, but they also appreciated my work. Today, I have established my own company. I have a team of 10-12 people, and we all work together," said Padhye.
Meghana Sakpal (Firefighter)
Meghana Mahendra Sakpal, a firefighter with the Central Fire Station Pune, said, "I'm honored to be the first female firefighter in Pune. I live in Shivdarshan and completed my graduation from Abasaheb Garware College. Three generations of my family have worked in the fire department. Inspired by their dedication, I decided to follow in their footsteps. Growing up, I was deeply influenced by my father and grandfather, who both served as firefighters. My father often asked me if I would consider joining the fire brigade, especially noting the absence of women in this field. These conversations sparked my interest, and I began to see it as not just a career but a meaningful way to serve the community. Ultimately, it was their passion and the idea of breaking barriers for women in this profession that motivated me to pursue a career in the fire brigade."
Anuja Bali (Founder, ISSCA)
Anuja Bali, founder of ITTI's Skill School Foundation, believes that instead of celebrating Women's Day, basic facilities should be provided to women first. "What are we celebrating? Women? No, I don't think so. Why do we need to celebrate us? We do it only to safeguard the rights of the voiceless. Are women safe? Has anything changed after celebrating these days? The answer is no, we don't need a day to celebrate; it is about equality and giving equal opportunity. Every Women's Day, they award women and give them gifts, but that's not what we want. Women should be dignified and respected, and they should feel safe throughout the year and not just one day. Nobody talks about period poverty. Young girls are dropping out of school because they don't have good access to washrooms, and some of them come from economically weaker sections and have to take care of their younger siblings. In the name of Women's Day, companies pack beauty products or give discounts, newspapers and magazines feature women, or some just give them awards. Firstly, we have to stop this fakeism. If you want to give them something, give them respect, dignity, opportunity and safety."
Rupali Patil Thombare (Politician)
Rupali Patil Thombare, associated with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), is known for voicing her opinions strongly. However, she shared that she had to face difficulties initially. "My family was not supportive at the initial stage. They were worried about my safety. In 2008, before marriage, I was imprisoned and forced to quit politics. But I did not give up. Eventually, I succeeded in gaining the trust of my family and continued my journey," she said. "Women need to be aware of their ability and willpower. The perception that you are a woman should be deleted from their mind. There is no need to worry. Every woman should fight for their dignity and justice. More women need to participate in politics - it is not a male-dominated space. I will work more for women empowerment if I am given a powerful position," she added.
Kadambari Shaikh (LGBTQ activist)
Kadambari Shaikh, a proud transgender woman, is making remarkable strides as an actress, model, social activist and advocate for the transgender community. A native of Sadashiv Peth, Pune, and currently residing in Hadapsar, she has completed her postgraduate degree and works for LGBTQIA+ rights. Being a key member of Tritiya Foundation and Mangalmukhi Kinnar Charitable Trust, Pune, Shaikh is dedicated to raising awareness about the existence of realities and mental health of transgender individuals. She has featured in a web series called 'Taali', starring Sushmita Sen, based on the life of transgender activist Gauri Sawant. She is publishing her book, 'Proud to Be a Transwoman,' which highlights her journey and experiences. On International Women's Day, Shaikh said it's important to honour the strength, struggles and achievements of women.
Nandini Vagyani (Assistant Commissioner of Police - Pune Traffic Division):
Nandini Vagyani, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Pune Traffic Division), highlighted the crucial role of family support in one's achievements. "I started my career in 2016 after qualifying for the MPSC exam. To succeed in any field, family support and encouragement are crucial. My father is a farmer, and my elder sister is a tahsildar. I have always been inspired by her. My parents prioritised our education and dreams, never pressuring us into marriage. Being both a police officer and a wife comes with challenges, but it becomes manageable when you have a supportive family. We encourage young girls and women to focus on becoming financially independent and work for their dreams. A housewife plays a very important role in a family, but financial independence should be a priority. It doesn't matter how much you are earning. A financially independent woman always commands greater respect and value in society."
