In a heartwarming display of support, eleven ‘Shakti Ammas’ extended a special welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his public rally in Salem, Tamil Nadu. The event took place on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.The warm reception comes amidst a political row sparked by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks related to ‘Shakti’. As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues its attack on Gandhi, these women stepped forward to express their solidarity with the Prime Minister.
The Significance of Shakti
Addressing the BJP rally in Salem, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of Shakti in Hinduism. He highlighted its meaning as “Matru shakti, naari shakti”, referring to the power of women. Modi further elaborated that Shakti represents the divine and manifests in various deities across the state, including Mariamman, Madurai Meenakshiamman, and Kanchi Kamakshiamma. He also cited the revered national poet Subramania Bharathi, who celebrated mother India as ‘Shakti.’
Project Shakti
The eleven Shakti Ammas are part of Project Shakti, which was launched in Nalgonda district, Andhra Pradesh. This project recognizes women entrepreneurs in villages as Shakti Ammas. Across the 18 states covered by Hindustan Unilever’s Project Shakti, there are nearly 1.4 lakh ‘Shakti ammas’—these women micro-entrepreneurs contribute significantly to improving livelihoods in rural areas.
A Symbolic Gesture
As Prime Minister Modi and top BJP leaders addressed the public, the eleven women, adorned in traditional attire, ascended the stage. In a poignant and symbolic moment, they posed for a photograph with PM Modi, who greeted them warmly. This celebration of the power of women underscores the importance of recognizing and empowering female voices in society.
The rally in Salem not only showcased political fervor but also highlighted the resilience and strength of these ‘Shakti Ammas’. Their warm welcome resonates beyond the stage, symbolizing unity, determination, and the spirit of progress.
