VEERVADHU: A RESPECTFUL ADDRESS, A STEP TOWARDS SOCIAL CHANGE

VEERVADHU: A RESPECTFUL ADDRESS, A STEP TOWARDS SOCIAL CHANGE

16-JUNE-ENG 26

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------Words have immense power. They not only express emotions but also shape the thinking and attitude of the society. Especially when it comes to those women whose spouses have attained martyrdom while protecting the country, then their address is not just formal, it becomes a reflection of the values ​​and sentiments of the society.

Even today in our country, the wives of martyrs are addressed as 'widow'. This word, even though legally or traditionally common, has an image of emptiness, sorrow and helplessness hidden in it. Is it right to associate those women, who have dedicated everything in the service of the nation, with a noun that has become a symbol of pain and deprivation. We should say 'Veervadhu', not 'widow'. The word 'Veervadhu' contains sacrifice, respect and pride.

This word gives a new identity to that woman – a woman who is living proudly, not in any ordinary situation, but even after losing her life partner for the protection of the nation. She is not just someone's wife, she is the hero of the nation. There are tears in her eyes, but those tears do not have sadness, but the shine of patriotism.We should look at the wives of martyrs with respect, not sympathy. The word 'Veervadhu' gives them a new social identity – an identity that does not make them weak, but empowers and inspires them. Both the government and society should take this step. The word 'Veervadhu' should be used in place of the word 'widow' in government documents. This word should be promoted in educational institutions, media and social forums. The wives of martyrs should not just be honored, but concrete efforts should be made for their respectable life again.

We call the brave sons who protect the country 'Shaheed'. Then why not call the wives left behind by them 'Veervadhu'? This will not only be a change in words, but will also prove to be the first step towards a change in mentality. When society addresses them with respect, a new energy, confidence and dignity will return to the lives of those women. From now on, don't say 'widow', say 'Veervadhu'.