A tribute to women
From the heart of spirited soil, they rise
In calm or loud, they have a lot to say
A beacon of strength in every room
Let us celebrate their stories, both old and new
Honour their sacrifices and the strength they grew
Let us lift them high, they are the stars in the sky

International Women’s Day is a global event celebrating women’s ground-breaking feats. As we reflect on women’s progress, it’s important to shine a light on both acclaimed and unsung heroes of our communities, the ones who have played a vital role in knitting the social fabric and nurtured cultures down through generations. Among them are Sikh women- whose contributions, not only historical but contemporary also, have been highly impactful in shaping not just the Punjabi community but the wider world. From courageous and disciplined warriors and compassionate and kind spiritual leaders to nurturing homemakers, Sikh women have always held a powerful place in society.

Glory and honour are to live forever

Sikh history is long and rich with examples of women who pulverised barriers, fought courageously for justice, and remained unwaveringly in their faith. The Sikh Gurus, revered for their teachings of equality, courage, and selflessness, recognised the profound strength women possess and their essential role in creating a just society. Take Mai Bhago, for instance, a warrior who fought alongside Guru Gobind Singh during the Battle of Muktsar in 1705, exemplify this strength. She did not just participate; she led a group of Sikh soldiers, inspiring them to fight against the Mughals and defend their faith.

Furthermore, Bibi Nanaki Ji, the sister of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, embodied immense wisdom and compassion. She was not just a supportive sibling but a spiritual guide, her life inspiring countless Sikh men and women to commit to the path of equality and justice. In the foundational days of Sikhism, women were regarded as equals, granted the same respect as men, and actively encouraged to pursue education and spiritual advancement. This commitment to equality has been a cornerstone of Sikh values and continues to resonate today.

Revolutionising the world

Fast forward to today, and the legacy of these powerful women continues to shape the modern world. In both the Sikh community and beyond, women have emerged as leaders, educators, activists, and innovators. Amrita Pritam, known for her bold and evocative work, is known as the first poetess of the Punjabi Language. She was a prolific writer whose career spanned over six decades. She fearlessly explored themes of love, feminism, and social justice. She earned widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Shri.

Kiran Bedi is a notable Indian figure who made history by becoming the First woman IPS and played a crucial role in introducing prison reform in India. She addressed the issue of corruption and human rights abuses in the Tihar Prison Complex in Delhi. earned the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1994 for this groundbreaking endeavour. She also served as a narcotics officer, antiterrorist specialist and administrator.

Harmilan Bains, also nicknamed ‘The Queen’ is a track athlete who specialises in middle-distance running. She established herself as a leading figure in the Indian athletics scene by bagging double silver medals in the 800 m and 1500 m events at the Asian Games. Her unwavering dedication and relentless perseverance mark her as a rising star in Indian track and field, and she is undoubtedly an athlete to watch closely in the coming years.

A Tribute to Homemakers

While the world often celebrates women who are popular faces in public spaces and hold leadership positions, we must also not forget our unsung heroes who take up the most important job of all: keeping the home and family together and cherishing family life. The role of the homemaker is highly valued, and many women find fulfillment and purpose in nurturing their families, maintaining traditions, and creating a safe, loving environment for their children.

Homemakers are the foundation upon which the fabric of society is built. They raise the future generations of leaders, thinkers, and creators. They may not always receive public recognition for their hard work, but their impact is immeasurable. The wisdom, love, and patience they instill in their children are the very qualities that shape strong communities. These women are the true backbone of society.

In the words of Guru Nanak, “From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married. Woman is the source of all life.” On this International Women’s Day, let’s honor all women, especially Sikh women, who have contributed in countless ways to our society.