Education is paramount for women empowerment: Padma Shri winner Mohanty

Padmashri awardee Binapani Mohanty feels that she was able to make a place in the society for herself due to her mother who is not only her inspiration but has always encouraged her to carve out a place in the society.

Cuttack (Odisha): An eminent literary figure in Odia language and Padma Shri award winner, 85-year old Binapani Mohanty feels that education is paramount for women empowerment. She believes, on this International Women's Day, women should stand united and pledge to build an impeccable society.

A woman continues to be an inspiration for everyone by making a place for herself. Craving a niche for herself in the field of Odia fiction writing, Binapani Mohanty is setting an example for women who aims to bring a change in society.

Mohanty said, ''My mother is my inspiration. She has supported me in my education. She has encouraged me to find out the solution for the problems which women face''.

"At the ripe age of 85, I am still engaged in writing for the society. My writing will continue until my last breath. Even my health is deteriorating now. If God continues to be kind towards me, my writings will remain uninterrupted in the coming days for the benefit of the society", said Mohanty while interacting with ETV Bharat.

Women of today face a lot of challenges in this patriarchal society. From unequal treatment to sexual abuse, women don't get the required attention, and at times, they are neglected too.

Referring to crimes against women like Nirbhaya gang-rape case in Delhi, Mohanty said that all the culprits should be hanged till death. She even expressed her concern regarding the rise in rapes and crime against women.

Although women are treated with respect and dignity at certain places, many places they are subjected to torture and gender discrimination. It's high time that society should work together for women empowerment and bring a change.

A woman should think of herself as empowered and she should herself get over her enemies and rise above the gender inequality'', says Mohanty.