Rebel with a cause: A woman’s fight for education

By Devika Khandelwal

At a time when tradition held women’s dreams tightly in its grasp, one woman dared to break free. Ms Sunita Khandelwal, her name synonymous with defiance, defied the age-old boundaries that kept women from education. Her story is a testament to the unwavering spirit that can rise even in the face of deeply entrenched norms.

“The world I was born into had heavy locks on the doors of learning for girls,” Sunita reminisces. “But my Papa, bless his heart, was the key that unlocked those doors for me. Together, we defied the current, determined to carve a new path.”

Sunita’s journey wasn’t easy. She faced constant criticism and societal barriers. “Education? Why waste time on books, child?” her grandmother would often scold. Even her uncle questioned her passion. “What business do you have with studies, Sunita?” he’d ask. “Marriage is just around the corner.” But despite the doubts, Sunita clung to a different belief. “Education could change my life,” she whispered, a conviction burning bright in her eyes.

Sunita’s remarkable achievement, a Master’s degree in Sanskrit from the University of Mumbai, came with its own challenges. Living with unsupportive relatives during her studies, she faced a barrage of discouraging comments. “The whispers of disapproval were a constant hum in the background,” Sunita recalls, “A reminder of the walls society had built around girls like me. But I refused to be confined. This degree wasn’t just proof of my mind, it was a testament to my spirit. Tradition may have tried to clip my wings, but with hard work and a heart full of fire, I learned to fly anyway.”

When asked about her motivation, she says, “There’s one teacher who continues to hold a special place in my heart. She believed in me even when I wavered, her encouragement a constant source of strength. Thanks to her, I found my calling in education and the confidence to pursue a fulfilling career.”

“School was where dreams bloomed for me,” Sunita remembers, a wistful smile playing on her lips. “I craved a Master’s degree in Sanskrit. But the path felt like a mountain I had to climb alone. My brothers, bless their hearts, had different plans. They whispered in Papa’s ear about chores and pleasing the neighbors, trying to convince him my education wasn’t worth the trouble.”

“Sometimes I can’t help but think,” Sunita says, a touch of regret in her voice, “What if I had more chances? Like that competition in 12th grade. My teacher pushed me to join, saw something special. But family, friends…they held me back. Still, even with those limitations, I never gave up. Faith in my own ability, that’s what got me through. It’s the one thing no one could take away.”

“Life’s a tough road, full of twists and turns,” Sunita says, her eyes reflecting a lifetime of experience. “There were two things that kept me going. Discipline and a kind heart. This is what I tell the girls of today. Discipline keeps you focused and gets you through the hard times. But a kind heart, that’s what matters most. See the good in people, even when they make it difficult. There’s always something to be grateful for, even the small stuff. And remember,” she leans in, her voice firm, “never stop learning. Be open to criticism, and willing to change course. That’s how you keep growing, keep moving forward.”

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