New Delhi: True empowerment of women begins with breaking down mental barriers created by fear, self-doubt and long-term social conditioning, National Commission for Women (NCW) president Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar said on Saturday.
Addressing a national conference of women thought leaders here at Vigyan Bhavan, Rahatkar pointed out that Indian civilization has traditionally viewed women not just as individuals or social roles but as embodiments of power, creativity and consciousness.
Referring to the cultural symbolism of Goddesses Saraswati, Lakshmi and Durga, she said Indian society has historically recognized women as the basis of knowledge, prosperity and power rather than restricting them to the family sphere.
Rahatkar stated that true freedom for women begins from within, as many limitations are often internalized from childhood through societal expectations about how far girls can dream, speak or aspire.
“When a woman realizes that she is not just a victim of circumstances, but rather a bearer of change, she rises with confidence and becomes a transformative force in society,” she said.
Citing the mythological story of Goddess Durga who emerged from the collective energies of the gods to defeat Mahishasura, she said the narrative symbolizes how united positive forces can defeat injustice.
The NCW President also stressed that empowering mothers is the key to building a strong nation, as confident mothers raise confident children, who in turn strengthen the society and the country.
Discussions on women empowerment must also link India’s traditions with contemporary reality to ensure greater participation of women in nation building, she said.
The two-day conference titled ‘Bharati-Nari to Narayani’ was organized by Bharatiya Vidvat Parishad in collaboration with Rashtra Sevika Samiti and Charanya here at Vigyan Bhavan.
It will conclude on Sunday with President Draupadi Murmu addressing the valedictory session.
Founded in 1936, the Rashtra Sevaika Samiti operates as a women’s organization parallel to the men’s Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
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