Focussed, driven, unapologetic. As the city prepares to welcome the goddess, we catch up with a bunch of fiesty young women whose lives and ambitions are a celebration of the feminine energy .
Preksha Bardia, Jazz and ballet dancer
Her viral reels show her performing in public places. And it’s this sense of freedom and the rhythm that has always drawn Preksha to dance. “When I began training professionally, I loved the discipline it demands, and the empowering connection I developed with my body. Over the years, dance has evolved into both my passion and a profound tool for self-discovery,” she shared.
Nilanjana Ghosh Dastidar, Bass guitarist
This fiery young woman creating magic on stage, plucking or slapping the strings of her bass guitar, is a highlight at maestro AR Rahman’s live concerts. And to Nilanjana, playing the bass is empowering. “I feel happy that I can play my music on my own terms, and work shoulder-to-shoulder with people who treat me with the respect and dignity I’ve earned,” she said with a smile.
Celebrating womanhood is about celebrating our bodies, the many roles we take on, and most importantly, coming together to support and uplift one another. My idea of celebrating womanhood is creating a world where women feel valued, respected and empowered.
Ruhani Singh, Theatre actor
She’s back in Kolkata after completing a double major in theatre & film studies in the US and working closely with theatre artistes in that country. Despite the experience, Ruhani believes that her heart belongs to theatre in this part of the world. Having made her debut as a theatre director recently in the city, she said, “I feel theatre is a platform for women to express themselves, tell their stories to break stereotypes and perceptions and inspire others.”
Today we see the power of solidarity – thousands of people fighting for what is right For me, celebrating womanhood denotes recognition of the resilience and creativity that women embody, highlighting the beauty of diversity in their identities and journeys.
Rhea Rao, Football player & coach
She started playing football at the age of seven and played for Bengal for three years, starting from the age of 13. She was also part of the U-17 team twice and the U-19 team this year. Speaking to us, Rhea, who played for Bengaluru FC this year and also coaches young girls in the city, said, “I envision a future where my students have the confidence to pursue their dreams.”
"I feel Pujo is a reminder that while we celebrate the goddess, we need to fight for the dignity and rights of real women in society. It’s about honouring the past while collectively working toward a better future. Today we see the power of solidarity – thousands of people fighting for what is right," Rhea added.
'I always turn a deaf ear to societal stereotypes who judge women based on their field of work. I’m eagerly waiting for Durga’s arrival, as only a devi can understand the pain of another devi'
– Nilanjana Ghosh Dastidar, bass guitarist
'I want to create an artistic space for myself that allows me to evolve, where I can be myself, free from judgement'
– Ruhani Singh, theatre actor
As a coach, I still face resistance from those who believe women shouldn’t lead in this space
– Rhea Rao, football coach
'I see the streets as my stage and the onlookers as my audience. In those moments, I feel empowered & free. Ballet and yoga helped me connect with my feminine side and made me realise that strength and grace can co-exist
To me, it seems women are only accepted by society if they embody the role of a silent goddess, without a voice or opinion. But things are changing, and women are claiming their place in world'
– Preksha Bardia, dancer
