Women empowerment takes centre stage at Gulshan Ikebana's puja festivities

Noida: The Ikebana Durga Utsav Samiti continued its inspiring campaign for women's empowerment on the occasion of Maha Shasti, led by empowered women themselves. Following the sacred Gayatri Hawan and a unique rangoli competition, which featured themes related to women's empowerment, residents put on a stunning cultural presentation in the evening. The highlight was a breathtaking dance and theatrical performance of Mahishasur Mardini, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and reflecting the strength and resilience of women.
This cultural extravaganza was dedicated to the cause of empowering women, supported by the collective voice of all 17 towers in the Gulshan Ikebana community in Noida's Sector 143.The evening's chief guest was none other than Shilpi Marwah, a true symbol of courage and resilience. She is renowned for using theatre to advocate for the cause of women empowerment, including in the fallout of the 2012 Delhi's Nirbhaya case. Shilpi also portrayed Rashmi in the Bollywood film Raanjhanaa.
She is a recipient of an award from the Delhi Commission for Woman and the ‘Devi' Award from The Indian Express Group for her contributions. The Gulshan Ikebana community also appreciated the presence of Damini, a woman cab driver who shared her journey of empowerment and her work for Sakha, a company that runs cabs driven by well-trained women drivers and provides safe and reliable transportation for women in Delhi NCR.
As part of the evening's activities, the samiti introduced a Pledge Tree, inviting all residents and visitors to make a personal commitment to support women's rights and empowerment. Setting the tone for the campaign, Radio Jockey Raunac took the first pledge, vowing to use his platform to create positive change for women. The Ikebana Durga Utsav Samiti will continue its efforts throughout this Durga Puja to inspire the community as we strive to empower women through meaningful cultural initiatives and active participation.