The power of womanhood has been extolled in poetry and prose, both ancient and modern. Throughout history, women have played, and continue to play, a significant role in the advancement of civilization. Yet, their contribution remains hidden to most of us. To address this anonymity, an effort has been made to bemoan the loss to any culture that denies women the opportunity to contribute.

The inadequate participation of women in public spaces and platforms also hurts our economy, much more than we can at times fathom. Seldom it is that large figures are quoted about the immense value that women can add, and now, the time has come for an empowering vision and robust action to make change happen.

Nari Shakti: Women take Centre Stage is a contribution to the body of knowledge in this field and is particularly relevant at a time when Indian women have contributed nationally and globally. The focus here is on how Indian womanhood has evolved and the factors that have shaped their status in society. Various authors have present different points of view addressing the challenges and opportunities for women in different strata of society. From mythology to documented corporate success in India and abroad, from supporting the tribal girl child to skilling and mentoring young women to success, and from policies to pragmatic methods for ensuring women play their role in government, the corporate sector and entrepreneurship, our galaxy of high-achieving women and men have bared their hearts to us and shared their views on the unleashing of Women Power (Nari Shakti).

The book underscores the significance of women’s participation in the economic growth of the nation and the pathways to achieve this. As a nation, we should settle for nothing less!