Anandibai Joshee
A Life in Poems
By Shikha Malaviya
Anandibai Joshee, born in 1865, holds the distinction of being India's first female physician and the first Indian woman to journey to the United States in pursuit of higher education. Despite the forbidden nature of her travel across the 'black waters,' she found support in the form of a kind American ally who aided her in her endeavors.Shikha Malaviya's collection of poems, titled "Anandibai Joshee: A Life in Poems," presents a chronological account of Anandibai's incredible journey. The verses vividly depict the various stages of her life, starting from her birth and upbringing in the bustling town of Kalyan in Maharashtra. The poems also delve into her marriage to a man who was sixteen years her senior, exploring the complexities of their relationship.Tragically, Anandibai's aspirations to become a doctor were ignited by the loss of her infant child and subsequent struggles with childbirth. This profound experience fueled her determination to pursue a medical education. With grace and a poignant simplicity, Malaviya's poems immortalize the hardships and triumphs of this remarkable woman. Anandibai's decision to voyage across the seas in pursuit of her dreams was a bold choice in a time when such endeavors were extraordinarily rare for Indian women.The poems take readers on a journey through time, transporting us back to an era when societal norms and expectations for women were restrictive and oppressive. Anandibai's story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination. The words penned by Malaviya resound with an unwavering voice, echoing across the ages. Anandibai, though her adventures were tragically cut short, continues to inspire future generations through these immortal verses.Anandibai's voyage to the United States came at a great personal sacrifice. Leaving behind her home and loved ones, she embarked on a courageous quest to obtain the education she longed for. In a foreign land, she faced unfamiliar customs and faced numerous challenges. However, her unwavering dedication to her dreams pushed her forward.In the face of adversity, Anandibai's unyielding spirit triumphed. She defied societal expectations and shattered barriers, emerging as a beacon of hope for countless Indian women who aspired to pursue their passions and break free from traditional constraints. Anandibai's journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and the ability of determined individuals to reshape their own destinies.While her journey was cut short prematurely due to an untimely tragedy, Anandibai's legacy lives on through the emotive verses of Malaviya's poems. They serve as a powerful reminder of the immense courage and determination exhibited by individuals like Anandibai, who fearlessly pursue their dreams despite daunting circumstances.Anandibai Joshee's pioneering accomplishments were not only significant on an individual level but also served as a catalyst for societal change. Her trailblazing journey paved the way for future generations of Indian women to pursue educational opportunities and challenge gender norms. Anandibai's story continues to empower and inspire individuals today, reminding us that tenacity and a passion for change can help overcome even the most formidable obstacles.Through the poetic medium, Shikha Malaviya captures the essence of Anandibai's extraordinary life. The carefully crafted verses bring to life the struggles, hopes, and triumphs of this remarkable woman. Anandibai's legacy transcends time through the eternal voice of Malaviya's poetry, reminding us of the indomitable spirit that lies within each individual, urging us to never falter in our pursuit of our dreams.
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- Book Information:
- ISBN 13: 9789356994072
- Publisher: HarperCollins India
- Year: 2023
- Format: Paperback
Author:Shikha Malaviya is a poet, writer, and founder of The (Great) Indian Poetry Project. Born in the U.K. and raised in the U.S. and India, Shikha considers herself a morpher, someone who has been shaped by multiple cultures and experiences. This background has greatly influenced her work and allowed her to bring a unique perspective to her poetry.One of Shikha's notable achievements is the establishment of The (Great) Indian Poetry Project, an initiative aimed at documenting, preserving, and promoting the legacy of modern Indian poetry. Through this project, Shikha has played a vital role in bringing attention to Indian poets and their works, ensuring their voices are heard and recognized.In addition to her involvement in The (Great) Indian Poetry Project, Shikha has been actively engaged in the poetry community through various events and initiatives. She has organized '100 Thousand Poets for Change�Bangalore,' showcasing the power of poetry to effect positive social change. Shikha also co-founded 'Poetry in Public India,' a movement that seeks to bring impactful verses by Indian women to public spaces across the country.Shikha's dedication to promoting poetry extends beyond organizing events. She has given a TEDx talk on 'Poetry in Daily Life,' sharing her passion for poetry and its relevance in our daily lives. Her own poetry has been recognized and nominated for the prestigious Pushcart Prize, highlighting the skill and depth of her work.In addition to her literary accomplishments, Shikha is also the founder of Monsoon Magazine, the first South Asian literary magazine available online. Her educational background includes BA and MA degrees in creative writing, mass communications, and liberal studies from the University of Minnesota.Currently residing in Bangalore, India, Shikha lives with her husband and two children. She continues to inspire and connect with others through her poetry and various literary endeavors, leaving a lasting impact on the world of contemporary Indian literature.