Today a new teacher came to my class. She knew me earlier from my other teachers. So when she came to my class she addressed me my calling my nick name. I was so shocked to hear it from my new teacher as it was kept as a secret between my schoolmates and teachers. At first I was so ashamed that I never thought that she, a new teacher will be calling me like this. All other’s used to call me my nickname but how she???............. At the same time I was so happy that she knew me even though I didn’t introduce myself to her. She asked about my ambition. I told I want to serve in Indian army or wanted to be an IAS officer (Indian Administrative service). But for my surprise the very next comment made by her was this” But Nitya you are a girl”. I was startled to her this from her. My memories went back 50 years, the time when girls were not allowed to get outside their house or women’s were not allowed to hold any good positions in the society. Still existing in this 21st century. Oh god I can’t believe this. I asked her why can’t I. Then she told me that girls have certain restrictions when compared to boys. I really felt very bad. Not only me, my classmates too. I felt that she is discouraging me or trying to pull me back from my ambition. None of my teachers ever told me like this they used to tell us that you should be bold and courageous to face any situations. Then why she told like this. Anyway I am not ready to deviate from my ambition. I will try my best to reach the zenith of my aim. And show that not only boys even girls can reach wherever she wants if she has a will. You know what provoked me to say this.
It’s none other than our former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. If a woman can rule a country why can’t she hold any high positions?