Reflecting on our achievements, we acknowledge that speaking about oneself can sometimes be perceived as egotistical. However, there are moments in life when it becomes necessary to draw strength and motivation from past accomplishments. It is in these moments that we find solace in looking back at our journeys, not to boast, but to remind ourselves of our capabilities, resilience, and the potential for growth. As we share our experiences, we recognize the invaluable support and inspiration we have received from others along the way.

Personal journey and triumphs: At an early age, I discovered my passion for singing and won competitions both within and outside of school, despite not having formal training. One of the judges identified my talent during a competition called ‘Antyakshri’ (see definition below) based on poetry written by Tulsidas, and invited me to compere children’s program on All India Radio, when I was in Grade Six. These early successes instilled in me a sense of determination and the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. Alongside singing, I immersed myself in various sports, including outdoor hockey, basketball, and cricket. The thrill of competing and the joy of teamwork fueled my drive to excel.

In Grade Ten, I proudly represented my school at the national-level basketball tournament, demonstrating not only my skills but also my dedication to the sport. Additionally, I had the privilege of playing cricket for my junior state team of Andhra Pradesh in India in 1987-88. The opportunity to represent my state and later the All Indian Universities team was a testament to my hard work and commitment to the sport.

During my childhood, hockey became another outlet for me to express my athleticism and love for sports. As a member of the junior state team of Andhra Pradesh in 8th grade in 1984, I honed my skills, learned valuable lessons about teamwork, and forged lasting memories on the field. In 1987-88, I had the honor of being selected for a TV all-round quiz program by name ‘Alpha Plus’ that tested on physical ability, mental agility, memory, problem-solving, and general knowledge, that was aired across India.  Publishing a children’s book in April 2023 has been a major milestone in my journey to make an impact on societies to come, touching the lives of young readers and igniting their imaginations

Beyond Personal Achievements: Beyond my personal achievements, my greatest inspirations are the remarkable women in my life. My mother, despite her education only until the Grade Ten, continually demonstrates her love and sacrifices as a woman. She immerses herself in learning through books, TV shows, and social media, expanding her knowledge on various topics. At 72 years old, she epitomizes the limitless pursuit of growth and self-improvement.

My daughter, a constant source of joy and strength, lifts my spirits during challenging times. I draw inspiration from her resilience, as she overcame a significant leg injury at a young age, undergoing 42 stitches. The visible scars serve as a reminder of her bravery and determination, reflecting the indomitable spirit of women in the face of adversity.

As women, we often underestimate our own capabilities. However, reflecting on our achievements becomes a catalyst for self-motivation and renewal. It is through acknowledging our triumphs, big and small, that we ignite our inner grit and perseverance, propelling us forward even during the toughest moments.

Publishing a children’s book in April 2023 has been a significant milestone in my journey. This creative endeavor has allowed me to share my imagination and storytelling abilities with young minds, empowering them through the magic of literature.

A Tribute to Women: This article stands as a heartfelt tribute to inspiring women of all ages, cultures, and nationalities who often go unnoticed but possess the power to impact the lives of those around them. It is a celebration of our collective achievements, resilience, and the ability to inspire and uplift one another. We extend our deepest gratitude to all women for making life beautiful and inspiring. Let us continue to celebrate each other’s achievements, embracing our inherent strength, and empowering future generations to rise above expectations, creating a more equitable and harmonious world.

The celebration of inspiring women is a testament to the indomitable spirit, resilience, and boundless potential that resides within each of us. As we honor our achievements, let us remain humble and grateful for the support we have received from mentors, friends, family, and the wider community. By sharing our stories, we create a ripple effect of empowerment, inspiring others to embrace their own strengths and capabilities.

Together, we can break free from the limitations society may impose and redefine what it means to be a woman of impact. Our collective achievements, both big and small, shape the narrative of progress and pave the way for future generations to reach new heights.

To all the inspiring women across ages, cultures, and nationalities, I extend my heartfelt appreciation. Your unseen contributions and untold stories have the power to transform lives and inspire change. Let us continue to uplift, support, and celebrate one another, embracing our individual and collective power to create a more inclusive, equitable, and harmonious world.

Today, we stand as a testament to the remarkable strength and resilience of women. May we forever forge ahead, united in our determination to break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and inspire generations to come.

The feature picture used in this article includes just a few women, as there are many more who I am indebted to, and this is a tribute to all women known and unknown!

*Antyakshri: It is the game of the ending letter, is a spoken parlor game played in India. Each contestant sings the first verse of a song (often Classical Hindustani or Bollywood songs) that begins with the consonant of Hindi alphabet on which the previous contestant’s song ended.