Chikkaballapur (Karnataka): Women need recognition of their abilities and equal opportunities rather than sympathy, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, founder of the One World One Family Mission, said on Wednesday.
Delivering a benediction at Sathya Sai Grama in Muddenahalli ahead of a musical programme organised as part of the Navaratri celebrations, he said women possessed knowledge, strength and immense capabilities but had yet to receive their rightful place in society.
Women embody Saraswati, the symbol of knowledge, and Durga, the embodiment of power, he said, pointing to the contradiction of a male-dominated society continuing to keep women in subordinate positions.
Citing a United Nations report, Madhusudan Sai said it could take another 100 years for women to achieve 33% representation on corporate company boards. He stressed the need to change societal attitudes towards women and create opportunities for them to realise their potential.
He added that women were given priority across institutions run by the One World One Family Mission and were effectively managing responsibilities in several units.
Muddenahalli institutions praised
Chikkaballapur Deputy Commissioner Prabhu G. expressed pride that the headquarters of the One World One Family Mission, which promotes the idea of the world as one family, was located in the district.
He praised the educational institutions in Muddenahalli for combining devotion with humanitarian service and emphasising character-building through education, describing their approach as a model for the world.
The Navaratri programme also featured a musical performance by renowned Hindustani vocalist Ustad Fayaz Khan, whose rendition captivated music enthusiasts.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr. Y. Naveen Bhat, Superintendent of Police Padmini Sahoo, Deputy Conservator of Forests Girish H.C. and Prashanthi Balamandira Trust president B.N. Narasimha Murthy were among those present.
