Book Review: An Insight Into Unknown Facts Related To President Droupadi Murmu's Life And Works

By Ashutosh Kumar Thakur

Saturday, July 15, 2023, 14:00

The book titled "President Droupadi Murmu: Reflection of Change in Bharat," a biographical sketch scripted by the author Dr. Vijaya Lakshani Mohanty, is woven around the birth, the growing years, and the incredible odyssey of how a simple tribal girl battles to overcome all the challenges that life has thrown at her.

Through her innate patience, perseverance, endurance, grit, and firm resolution, she slowly but surely ascends to the pivotal position of the President of the biggest democracy in the world. It is a gripping and inspiring story.

Knowing Droupadi Murmu through this book is not only to know about an enduring personality with formidable resilience but is an introduction to a cultural heritage of scenic, lesser-known geography of incredible Bharat. It touches the unsung inspired heroes of Rairangpur, Mayurbhanj who have silently contributed to nation-building.

The question is why Droupadi was poor even after being a descendant of the most philanthropic Sardar (Tudu) family of Uparbeda Peedha (Pargana comprising 52 mouzas approximately) of the Bamanghaty subdivision with her father being the Halam Baba (the head man of the village), probes on the social fabric of the time and gives us an afterthought of the economic upliftment of landed cultivators of the remotest part of the country.

True to her name, she reflects women's empowerment in a progressive and inclusive democracy which facilitated her education, job and political opportunities that she received in life. Her elevation to become the President of the largest democracy in the world reinforces our belief in the law of Karma and reemphasizes Bharat's commitment to practice the value of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (one world family) and invites the world to follow the age-old principle of peaceful coexistence.

The book unveils a compelling narrative that delves into the inspiring life and remarkable journey of Her Excellency, from a tribal village in Odisha to the highest position in the country. This thought-provoking book sheds light on her experiences, achievements, and the challenges she has overcome throughout her distinguished career.

She was chosen to be the nation's leader on Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the nation's 75th anniversary of independence, increasing the hopes of millions of the oppressed, tribal people, and women. The book recounts an uplifting journey and shows how she left her mark on history as a warrior, believer, and victor. Dr. Vijaya Lakshmi Mohanty, the author, has succeeded in presenting the material in an interesting and appealing way.

Flipping through the pages, each chapter reveals the amount of research that went into shaping its biographical delight for its readers! The contents depict not only the travails, tragedies, and triumphs of her life but also many other fascinating aspects of her political saga, resplendent with momentous events to cherish. The plot moves along easily, making it simple to follow and comprehend. Overall, this book provides a thorough and inspirational account of Smt. Draupadi Murmu's life and achievements.

The roller-coaster life events show how Mahamahim Smt. Droupadi Murmu traversed as a dedicated voluntary teacher in a school to her womanhood and motherhood. The horrific times she lost her loved ones, one after the other, and how she navigated through the turbulent times, standing tall and braving the rough roads, make it a compelling read.

The narrative on the cultural life and aspects of the tribals of Mayurbhanj opens a new vista to the cultural life of tribal people, which even after living for many decades, is perhaps unknown to many, like me.

This book is not just a biographical sketch of the 15th President of India depicting her tumultuous journey of life from zenith to nadir with a message to humanity to look within. 'Sukhasya dukhasya na kopi data, paro dadātīti kubuddhiresha. Aham karomīti vrithābhimanah, swakarmasūtre grathito hi lokah' (No one except you yourself can give happiness and sorrows. Since the human being is free to act, the responsibility for his actions lies solely with him). It inspires global citizens to create their destinies through individual dedication. Anyone interested in Indian politics, women's liberation, or just looking for motivation from a great leader should read it.