Najma Heptulla Engages Chicago Audience with Insights on Democracy and Women’s Role in Indian Society
Former Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha and Union Minister, Najma Heptulla, graced the city of Chicago on March 1 to deliver a talk and promote her latest literary endeavor, “In Pursuit of Democracy: Beyond Party Lines”. The event, hosted by the Overseas Friends of the Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP) Chicago chapter, not only showcased Dr. Heptulla’s intellectual prowess but also served as a celebratory platform for the BJP’s triumph in the recent Delhi Vidhan Sabha elections.
A Respected Figure in Indian Politics
With a distinguished career that includes serving as the longest-standing Deputy Speaker of the Rajya Sabha for 35 years, Dr. Heptulla has left an indelible mark on Indian politics. Her contributions extend beyond the realm of parliamentary affairs, as she has also held key positions such as Vice President of the BJP and federal minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet from 2014 to 2016. Prior to her tenure with the BJP, Dr. Heptulla was associated with the Congress Party, showcasing her bipartisan approach to governance.
Embracing India’s Pluralistic Identity
During her address in Chicago, Dr. Heptulla emphasized the essence of India’s civilizational pluralism, asserting that the country’s diversity necessitates a democratic framework. She remarked, “India cannot have any other kind of government with so much diversity. The only way to survive for us is to follow democracy, with different languages, cultures, religions—even food and clothes.” Her words resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and tolerance in a multicultural society.
Empowering Women in Indian Society
In a poignant reflection on gender dynamics, Dr. Heptulla commended the pivotal role of women in upholding Indian cultural heritage. Drawing a humorous parallel, she remarked, “It is our women who have preserved Indian culture even after living in America, while men have switched to pants.” This lighthearted yet profound observation shed light on the resilience and adaptability of women in navigating cultural transitions while maintaining a sense of identity.
Avatans Kumar, a notable contributor to this report, captured the essence of Dr. Heptulla’s insightful discourse, encapsulating her nuanced perspectives on democracy and women’s empowerment. Through his lens, the vibrancy of the event and the wisdom imparted by Dr. Heptulla came to life, resonating with readers and attendees alike.
As the audience reflected on Dr. Heptulla’s words, a sense of admiration and respect permeated the room. Her wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to democratic values served as a beacon of inspiration for all those in attendance. In a world marked by political upheaval and social change, voices like Dr. Heptulla’s remind us of the enduring power of dialogue, diversity, and inclusivity.
