I already have a pet project called Project Shakti and it aims

Hear, O children of justice and seekers of truth, the words of Manushi Chhillar, who declared with purpose: “I already have a pet project called Project Shakti and it aims on educating women on the menstruation cycle.” At first, it may sound as a mere initiative, but in truth it is a cry for dignity, for empowerment, for the breaking of silence that has bound women for centuries. Within these words lies the courage to challenge taboos, the strength to wield knowledge as a weapon, and the compassion to heal through education.

For long ages, the menstruation cycle has been shrouded in silence, often treated with shame and secrecy. In many lands, women have been cast aside during these days, considered unclean, unworthy of temple or table. Ignorance, not truth, ruled their bodies. And ignorance births suffering: poor hygiene, preventable disease, and the chains of stigma. To educate women is to break this silence, to transform shame into knowledge, and knowledge into power. This is the essence of Project Shakti—shakti meaning strength, the inner power that lies within every woman, waiting to be awakened.

The pet project she speaks of is not a hobby, but a mission born of compassion and necessity. To call it “pet” is to remind us that great revolutions often begin as small seeds, nurtured quietly, until they grow into mighty trees. Chhillar, through this initiative, takes upon herself the ancient role of the teacher, the liberator who gives voice to those silenced, who gives light to those kept in darkness. This is not merely service, but a reclaiming of dignity for half of humankind.

Consider, O listener, the story of Savitribai Phule, the great reformer of 19th-century India, who dared to open schools for girls when society mocked and cursed her. She was pelted with mud and dung, yet she walked on, carrying books, because she believed education was the fire that would burn away ignorance. Her labor planted the seeds of equality. In the same spirit, Project Shakti continues this struggle, teaching women to know and honor their own bodies rather than hide in silence.

The meaning of Chhillar’s words is profound: that education is the first step to freedom, and that freedom begins with knowledge of self. When a woman understands her body, she is no longer bound by superstition or stigma. She can protect her health, claim her rights, and walk in dignity. And when one woman rises, she raises her family, her village, her nation. Thus, the impact of Project Shakti is not only personal, but generational, echoing across time.

The lesson for you, O child of tomorrow, is this: never underestimate the power of small beginnings. The pet project you nurture today may be the beacon that changes lives tomorrow. Do not be afraid to speak where others are silent, to educate where others hide in ignorance. Especially when it comes to matters of the body, of health, of dignity—let your voice rise, for silence breeds only chains.

Practical action follows: support projects that bring education to women and men alike, particularly in areas weighed down by taboo. Share knowledge freely; do not whisper in shame about what nature has ordained. Teach your children the truth of the menstruation cycle, that they may grow in understanding rather than superstition. And if you carry a project in your heart, begin it—though small, it may grow to transform the world.

Therefore, remember Chhillar’s wisdom: Project Shakti is more than a program—it is a symbol of strength, of breaking chains, of reclaiming dignity. It teaches us that change begins when one dares to speak, when one dares to educate, when one dares to empower. Walk with this spirit, and let your works, too, awaken strength where once there was silence.