Former Miss India unveils ‘Yashoda’, honours writer with ‘Author of 2021’ Award

"I hear a voice in Yashoda who wants women at all levels to change the dynamics, reshape the conversation and make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked, and ignored. That is the essence of this book,’’ Shivani Jadhav told India Blooms after unveiling the new book here.

The Femina Miss Grand India 2019 pointed out that a small-town woman from West Champaran district in Bihar advised women of her state to be part of the solution, whatever the problem, and urged them not to sit around raising questions and pointing out obstacles.

‘’Such a clarion call way back 50 years ago shows her strength and belief, which is the hallmark of women’s empowerment in the country,'' she noted.

In January, India Blooms reviewed ‘Yashoda: The Real Story of a ‘Swayamprabha Woman’ which describes her trials and tribulations as her way of life to fight against widespread social, economic, and political barriers, and successfully follow her dreams in a patriarchal society and encourage women to go beyond their role of homemaking.

Manoj Kumar Rao, who works with Dainik Bhaskar in Bettiah, was also honoured with the ‘Author of the Year 2021’ by the jury and former Miss India.

Talking to India Blooms, Rao said, ‘’Yashoda Devi stood up for equality and against social and sex discrimination in the 1970s and helped other women speak up and empowered them through raising their concerns. She used to say that women have to harness their power on their own and pointed out that if they can’t go straight ahead, they must go around the corner.’’

The journalist-turned-author said, ‘’I wanted to tell her telling tales of fearlessness and audacity in such a way that can help today’s women understand their own worth and strength and act accordingly.’’