Priyanka Gulati
Azizan Bai was a trailblazer who defied societal norms and expectations to fight for her country in the 1857 uprising. She was part of the procession when the flag was raised in Kanpur to celebrate the initial victory of Nana Saheb. Her courage and determination paved the way for future generations of women to pursue their dreams and ambitions. Fast forward to 2023, and we still see the struggle for gender equality and representation in various fields, including bridge.
The recent Singhania Invitational Bridge tournament in Kanpur saw the participation of two inspiring women, Asha Sharma and Devi Bhatnagar. These women represented the entire women parade, showcasing their skill and passion for the game. Despite the lack of visibility of women's events on Vugraph and the absence of young women bridge players like Vidya and Kalpana in major events, Asha and Devi's participation serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for girls and women everywhere.
Their representation is crucial in bridging the gap that women often face in identifying the right role models and mentors in the field. Women need to see themselves reflected in positions of leadership and excellence, and Asha and Devi's participation serves as a reminder that we can be there.
It is heartening to see that the spirit of Azizan Bai lives on in the form of women like Asha and Devi.
As we continue to strive for equity rather than just equality, we must acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of all our bridge women. Such steps are powerful symbols of progress and hope for a future where women can pursue their passions without fear or hesitation.
For sure Azizan Bai must be smiling at them and wishing for the tribe to increase.
Disclaimer : All opinions are entirely those of the author and are no reflection of the views of the BridgeFromHome Team.