Shabd Manch - A Festival of Letters - Author Archana Garodia Gupta
Going forward with the celebration of Shikshantar Birthday through Shabd Manch, students from Classes VII and VIII had a session with the author Archana Garodia on her books, ‘The History of India for Children’ and ‘The Women Who Ruled India: Leaders. Warriors. Icons.’
Taking the children through the history of the geographical region, she touched upon continental shift and how the Indian subcontinent was formed. Himalayan collision also caused the formation of animal fossils found in the Deccan peninsula. These findings led to the integration of animals like Rajasaurus Narmadensis and cobras as mythical beasts - Makara and Shesh Naga in the mythological stories of India.
The discussion progressed through the ages from prehistory to more contemporary history, going from the migration of ostriches and dingoes away from the subcontinent to the Mughals’ fascination with taming cheetahs and lions.
With a similar focus on detail, the author also explored the rich and often overlooked history of women rulers in India, sharing stories that shed light on their extraordinary contributions to leadership, education, and warfare during times when women were often viewed as second-class citizens. Through describing these rulers’ rise to power, she shared her idea of some of their common traits. Key among them was access to the same education as men, clearly seen in the stories of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and Ahilya Bai Holkar.
She also shared some incredible stories of resistance; Rani Abbakka Chowta of Ullal fought off the Portuguese by burning their ships using coconut shells filled with fire; Rani Karnavati of Garhwal successfully held off Shah Jahan’s armies from her little kingdom in the Western Ghats and Rudrama Devi of Warangal, defying gender norms displayed leadership which was so impactful that even Marco Polo noted her accomplishments in his writings about India.
By sharing these powerful stories, Archana Garodia not only highlighted the significant yet often neglected role women have played in Indian history but also inspired the young audience to question, observe, and rise above societal norms just as these women had done in the past.
She emphasised the teachings of Buddha from the Kalama Sutta, where he advised not to believe in something without observation and analysis. This was another powerful message for the students: to think critically, observe, analyse and accept only what is good for all.