Sisterhood in Service: The spirit of  Sanginis celebrating Women’s Day reaffirming the power of transformation

- Esha Keny & Nikhat Shaikh

On February 20th, the Sanginis (Women Volunteer) of the Program on Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children (PVWC) came together at the Savitribai Phule Gender Resource Centre to celebrate not just Women’s Day but their unbreakable bond of sisterhood. In this supportive space, free from judgment, they found the opportunity to rejoice, reflect, and connect with each other. A Sangini is more than a friend; she is a mentor, a caregiver, a leader, and an agent of transformation. In their communities as Sanginis  they foster unity, resilience, and action on violence against women and children. Their service is often silent but deeply impactful, shaping the fabric of community through prevention work, activism, and community leadership.

There was a similar celebration on March 7th, 2025, in Shatabdi Hospital in Govandi celebrating International Women's Day with an event that brought together healthcare providers, organized jointly by CDO, Dilaasa, and SNEHA. The occasion served as both a tribute to the remarkable contributions of women in healthcare and a platform for fostering community spirit and solidarity.

The events were more than just a gathering—it was a celebration of the strength these women share and their powerful narratives. They welcomed guests with pride, performed songs and dances with joy, and listened to words of encouragement that reaffirmed their purpose. Very useful information about the Shree Shakti Portal was also shared, the portal is an online platform that promotes and facilitates initiatives focused on empowering women. It focuses on programs like skill development, financial literacy, entrepreneurship etc. Their main goal is to provide resources and support to improve their economic and social standing. Such information is crucial as it can help the Sangini’s take advantage of the such platforms that exist to empower women. Each moment was a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles; they have each other to lean on.

Every Sangini was honored with a red rose, a small yet powerful token of appreciation for their dedication and resilience. Through captivating performances and heartfelt speeches, they shed light on the challenges women face and the strength found in unity. As the moment arrived to pledge their commitment to women's rights, their voices rose in unison, echoing a shared determination to drive change.

A key takeaway from the celebration at Shatabdi Hospital was the collective commitment to protecting women's rights, particularly those affected by violence. Hospital staff and representatives from various organizations pledged to collaborate in safeguarding these rights and taking proactive steps to prevent and reduce violence against women.

The Women's Day celebration at both venues was a resounding success. For many, it was a rare opportunity to pause, reflect and celebrate themselves and their comrades. In a world that often demands their strength, they found a safe space to laugh, dance, and support each other without hesitation. As the events came to a close, they left with renewed energy and the comforting knowledge that together, they have the power to transform and they are unstoppable.