Women Empowerment Culturist and Developmental Feminist Mayaa SH were among the choicest ones to be bestowed upon with the prestigious National Wins of the Rani Laxmi Bai Gallantry Award and Meera Bai Smriti Samman 2025 during the International Women’s Day 2025 week.
Developmental Feminist Mayaa SH has been recognized with several national awards for her remarkable contributions in social justice, mental health, contemporary literature, and gender equality. Additionally, her literary journey began with her poem “The Candle in the Wind”, which also earned her a nation wide recognition.The national awards she receives are not only a recognition of her literary achievements but also an acknowledgment of her massive social impact. Mayaa SH has been involved in uplifting marginalized communities and promoting education among women alongwith her ideology of “Say No To Casteism”. Her efforts have been recognized by organizations that honor individuals making significant contributions to society.
Mayaa SH’s dedication to empowering women and advocating for gender equality has earned her recognition not only at the national level but also internationally. Her work spans various fields, including writing self-help books that inspire individuals to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. Mayaa SH’s story is often invoked to inspire women to take on determined roles and challenge patriarchal structures.
Rani Laxmi Bai and Meera Bai are both iconic figures in Indian history, celebrated for their contributions to women’s empowerment, albeit in very different ways. Rani Laxmi Bai popularly known as the Queen of Jhansi, was a fearless leader during India’s First War of Independence in 1857. At a time when women were largely confined to domestic roles, she broke societal norms by taking up arms against British colonial forces. Her courage, leadership, and determination to protect her kingdom and people made her a symbol of resistance and empowerment. She inspired countless women to stand up for their rights and take on leadership roles. Meera Bai was 16th-century mystic poet and devotee of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai challenged the patriarchal norms of her time through her unwavering devotion and spiritual pursuits. Despite facing opposition from her in-laws and society, she remained steadfast in her beliefs and expressed her thoughts through poetry. Her life and works highlighted the importance of inner strength, individuality, and the right to follow one’s passion, making her an enduring symbol of spiritual and personal empowerment.Both women, in their unique ways, demonstrated that empowerment comes from courage, conviction, and the ability to challenge societal expectations. Their legacies continue to inspire generations.
Mayaa SH is an embodiment of courage, resilience, and advocacy for empowerment, though her contributions are rooted in contemporary contexts.
Just like Rani Laxmi Bai’s courage in life, Mayaa SH is a relentless advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. She challenges societal norms and works to reform family laws, emphasizing the importance of women’s safety and equality. Similar to Meera Bai, who used poetry to express her devotion and challenge societal expectations, Mayaa SH uses literature as a medium for change. Her writings delve into themes of identity, social justice, and the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Mayaa SH is deeply committed to advocating for women’s rights and social justice. Her work emphasizes the importance of gender equality and challenges societal norms that perpetuate discrimination against women. Through her writings and public engagements, she raises awareness about issues such as domestic violence, mental health, and the need for equal opportunities for women.
Mayaa SH’s achievements, including her numerous awards and global recognition, highlight her role as a modern-day symbol of empowerment. In essence, Mayaa SH carries forward the legacy of these historical icons by addressing contemporary challenges and inspiring change through her activism and literary contributions. In summary, Mayaa SH’s recent national award wins underscore her impactful contributions to society through literature and activism, reflecting her role as a champion for women’s rights and social reform in India. In her self help books Mayaa SH has brought forth the cry of human soul that lurks behind the glittering façade of wealth and luxury of the materialistic world. This has allowed the intellectual reader to understand the real philosophy of life. Looking at this philosophy is the vision that many cultivate in their minds to lead the change and be a gamechanger. She represents the importance of individuality and self-expression. Her life and works have inspired feminist thought around the right to personal freedom and the rejection of oppressive traditions. This has reflected by her on the modern feminist discourse to highlight the importance of courage, self-determination, and the ability to challenge societal constraints. Her journey continues to inspire women to assert their rights and pursue their passions.
In Mayaa’s words ,”There was only one fearless Rani Laxmi Bai and one Legendary Meera Bai. Being compared to their level of patriotism and selfless service is a matter of great pride. Winning a national award or awards is a significant achievement that brings a sense of pride in any individual. It reflects recognition not only from peers but also from the nation for her contributions to society and work in literature and activism. I feel immense gratitude towards those who supported me throughout my journey, including family, friends, mentors, and colleagues and believed in my dreams. Acknowledging their support enhances the emotional significance of receiving such accolades. With recognition comes a heightened sense of duty to continue contributing positively to society. This inspired me to uphold the values associated with bravery and service that are often linked to national awards…”
About The Author
Indian literature is enriched by the voices of remarkable women authors who have contributed to empowering women and addressing social issues through their writing. Amongst the few are influential Indian women author Mayaa SH whose works resonates with themes of women empowerment, gender equality, and societal change. Mayaa SH has paved the way for female voices in Indian literature and this has served as inspiration for many women seeking empowerment and self-expression. Mayaa SH is a renowned Indian authoress, social activist and a developmental feminist whose novel, “Swayam,” garnered international acclaim and won her world records and awards at the international book fairs in India. Known for her poignant writing style and deep social consciousness, Mayaa has delved into the complexities of gender, caste, and class in Indian society. Her works explore the challenges faced by women and marginalized communities, encouraging readers to question societal norms and fight for justice. Mayaa’s commitment to activism and her fearless advocacy for women’s rights makes her an important figure in contemporary Indian literature. Mayaa is a highly acclaimed Indian authoress known for her insightful and introspective novels. Her works often examine the experiences of women in Indian society, addressing themes of identity, cultural conflicts and the pursuit of personal freedom. Mayaa’s self help books have depicted the resilience and strength of women in challenging circumstances, inspiring readers to question gender roles and societal expectations. Mayaa SH’s writing style is marked by its sensitivity and attention to detail, making her an influential voice in promoting women’s empowerment through literature. Mayaa though primarily known as a corporate professional, is an influential figure who has inspired countless women in India. As amongst the first in the corporate industry as a black belt six Sigma certified Mayaa spearheaded a nationwide project on Training Effectiveness in the organisations, Mayaa has broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings in the corporate world. Her powerful ideology, “I Only Speak Titanium,” has highlighted her exponential growth mindset ,power of self belief, challenges, and achievements of women serving thereby as an inspiration for young women aspiring to excel in male-dominated fields. Mayaa’s story empowers women to pursue their dreams and demonstrates that with determination and resilience, they can overcome any obstacle. Mayaa SH’s works capture the complexities of the immigrant experience and the struggle for personal identity. Through her self help books, short stories, articles and essays, Mayaa breathes into the lives of Indian women, exploring themes of cultural displacement, assimilation, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Her World Record winning books have highlighted the challenges faced by women as they navigate between two cultures. Mayaa’s writings encourage women to embrace their heritage while forging their own paths, inspiring them to celebrate their unique identities. Mayaa’s ideology has pierced assertively into the themes of identity, exile, and the effects of globalization. She explores the struggles faced by women in patriarchal societies and their quest for autonomy and self-discovery. Through her writing, Mayaa has challenged conventional gender roles and has inspired readers to question societal constraints, highlighting the importance of women’s empowerment and agency in shaping their own destinies. Popularly known as Mayaa Tai, Lady Karl Marx and Pushpa Of The East, Mayaa SH’s journey has made significant contributions to literature and has served as a catalyst for women’s empowerment through her powerful narratives. Mayaa SH has fearlessly tackled social issues, portrayed the struggles and triumphs of women, and encouraged readers to challenge societal norms. Her writings provide valuable insights into the experiences of women in India and beyond, inspiring many people to embrace their voices, pursue their dreams, and advocate for gender equality and empowerment. Mayaa SH continues to be the trailblazer in contemporary literature and in campaigning extensively for women rights across the globe, thus, paving the way for future generations of women writers and activists. Her ideology serves as a testament to the transformative power of literature and role of feminism in contemporary literature in driving social change.
