Women’s Power Has No Gender: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta at Book Launch on Ahilya Bai Holkar

By A Staff Reporter

New Delhi: At the book launch of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar held at New Maharashtra Sadan, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating the enduring strength and leadership of Indian women. Drawing from the life and legacy of Ahilya Bai Holkar—one of India’s most revered women rulers—Gupta reflected on the evolving role of women in society and the importance of restoring their rightful place in leadership.

“On this day, I want to start by saying that I have thought a lot about what a lady president or lady speaker is called. There is no word for a female figure in any powerful role. After thinking a lot, I realised that bravery, wisdom, and decision-making abilities have no gender,” Gupta said, setting the tone for a message rooted in gender equality and cultural pride.

She reminded the audience that India’s tradition has long revered women, citing the divine status of goddesses and the reign of historical female rulers. However, she also acknowledged that social regressions occurred over time, possibly due to foreign invasions, which restricted women’s opportunities.

Referencing recent initiatives, Gupta praised campaigns like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, and extended the idea further, saying, “I am very proud that today we have again reached a level when we talk about Beti bachao, beti padhao and beti badhao.”