In a ceremony to mark the distinguished work of all leading national personalities, from all over the country and abroad, Women Empowerment Culturist, Gender Based Violence Specialist, Authoress, Firebrand Feminist Mayaa SH was conferred the prestigious “Bharat Nepal International PashupatiNath Mahotsav Lifetime Achievement Award 2025″ in recognition of her exemplary dedication to the field of women empowerment, social activism, suicide prevention and mental health and human rights which earned her acknowledgement across the country and overseas. In the Virtual Shared event organized by ParshavaTrust, India-Bhutan Literature Festival and India-Nepal International Pashupati Mahotsav were organized in which on 22 June 2025, dozens of litterateurs from all over India gave their captivating presentation in their own style. The program was presided over by Dr. Suresh, Chief Guest Dr. Ram Ratan Ji. The citation read out for Mayaa SH, during the ceremony, described her as a versatile personality, simultaneously known as an outstanding academician, researcher, social activist, authoress and brilliant motivator. The citation also spoke highly of Mayaa SH as someone highly revered for her unassuming nature, practical and human approach, both in words and deeds, which makes her a “true daughter” of India. The various awards received by her in the past reflect truly on her remarkable journey to empower many across the country and globally as well for her dedication and commitment to women’s rights and gender equality in India. Her work involves challenging patriarchal norms and raising awareness about women’s rights through various media. She is considered a “Firebrand Feminist” and a voice for those seeking to challenge patriarchal structures. Her message emphasizes embracing individuality, challenging norms, and ensuring holistic empowerment through education and economic independence. She is also recognized for her work in developmental feminism, which focuses on empowering women through social, economic, political, and personal development.
Women Empowerment Culturist, Authoress, Firebrand activist, Gender Based Violence Specialist and everything in between, Mayaa SH has dedicated herself journey towards serving women turning observations and experiences into a blueprint for legal and activist intervention. Mayaa SH conceived her ideology as a space that could provide both — not just awareness on long litigations, but comprehensive socio-legal support, including counselling, mentoring, emotional care and free legal aid to countless women. Victims of interpersonal (domestic) abuse approach Mayaa SH, while the NGO’s refer those of sexual violence. Methodically, Mayaa SH notes that domestic violence victims tend to belong to middle-class or lower-middle-class, seeking help of their own volition. It takes several years for many to understand the fact that the victim may not even know she’s been abused, she may be very young, she may not understand what an FIR is.” Since sexual violence cases are tried in a criminal court, her job is to prepare the girl or woman to answer questions without being intimated or slipping into contradictions. When asked about the typology of support rendered by Mayaa requiring the gravest support, she comments on how disturbing child custody cases are. Mayaa SH describes the manipulation, the child’s compromised state, and how important it is that women are physically with the children of whom they are fighting for custody. Mayaa SH supports initiatives for empowering women through writing, advocacy, community engagement, education, and economic empowerment.
Mayaa SH is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality, viewing it as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone for societal progress. She emphasizes that women’s empowerment is essential for the health and social development of families, communities, and countries. She believes that when women live safe, fulfilled, and productive lives, they can reach their full potential, contributing their skills to the workforce and raising healthier children.
Mayaa SH’s journey is characterized by a multifaceted approach to women’s empowerment and suicide prevention, stemming from her personal experiences, intellectual pursuits, and active involvement in various social initiatives. Her work is deeply rooted in the belief that women’s self-belief and mental well-being are crucial for societal progress. Her commitment to women’s empowerment is evident in her writings, which challenge societal norms and advocate for gender equality and inclusivity. She is described as a “women empowerment culturist” and a “feminist philosopher,” indicating her deep-seated commitment to these causes. Her writings break stereotypes and echo gender inclusivity, earning global acclaim and multiple awards. Her focus on suicide prevention is another key aspect of her work.
This covers profile of a strong headed woman in the field of women empowerment and women’s rights, who has been the architect of quintessentially emphasising on women’s liberation and gender equality. This could mean being firmly situated in collective action, political justice, and legal wins, or in the quieter spaces of self and gender neutrality. We talk loosely about ‘women’s movements’ and ‘the patriarchy’ as if they are as vast and unpinnable as air. But Mayaa SH has found particularities from which many women are fighting to breathe afresh. The work is vertiginous, and the path is fraught. Of course it is. This article emphasises on “What It takes on how cultural, political, economic, and gender injustices can be met with somatic bravery, intellectual hard work, and joy as much as resilience.” Looking to fight the good fight? This is what (some) resistance looks like.
Key Areas of Focus:
Mayaa SH’s work consistently highlights several key areas:
Promoting Women’s Leadership and Political Participation:
She advocates for women to take an active part in decision-making at all levels. She recognizes that women leaders enhance productivity, collaboration, and fairness.
Economic Empowerment:
She stresses the importance of economic opportunities for women and the need to address gender-based discrimination. Investment in women’s education and health is seen as crucial for economic development.
Ending Violence Against Women:
Mayaa SH acknowledges that violence against women is a pervasive issue that prevents women from accessing the benefits of development.
Education and Health:
She emphasizes that women’s education leads to empowerment and boosts economic development. She also highlights the importance of women’s health.
Challenging Patriarchy:
Mayaa SH calls for a re-evaluation of patriarchal systems that have historically limited women’s roles and opportunities.
Strategies and Approaches:
Mayaa SH employs several strategies aligned to her ideology:
Writing and Advocacy:
She uses her writing to address social issues, challenge societal norms, and advocate for women’s rights. Her writings often focus on gender inclusivity and equality.
Sharing Experiences:
She shares her experiences and insights of numerous observations of so many people to inspire and motivate women.
Promoting Self-Belief:
She champions the power of self-belief and encourages women to recognize their self-worth and potential.
Utilizing Talking as a Medium:
She uses talking as a tool to help women manage stress and anxiety.
Specific Initiatives and Projects:
Mayaa SH has been involved in various initiatives:
Advocacy for the 2030 Agenda:
She contextualizes her work within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Youth Development:
She is working on a project focused on youth-led development to empower individuals for work.
Healthcare and Support:
She is involved in initiatives to provide free treatment and training for women.
Addressing Challenges:
Mayaa SH recognizes the challenges women face, including gender inequality, violence, and lack of economic opportunities. She emphasizes the need to address these issues to create a more equitable society. She also acknowledges the challenges writers face, such as rejection and self-doubt.
In summary, Mayaa SH’s work centers on empowering women through various means, including advocating for their rights, promoting their economic and social well-being, and challenging societal norms that limit their potential. She believes that women’s empowerment is crucial for the progress of individuals, families, and society as a whole. Mayaa SH is recognized as a suicide prevention expert. She uses talking as a medium to combat stress and fear, and her self-help books address sensitive issues like suicide prevention. She has also been aligned to Louis Memorial Trust, Hyderabad, Maan Samman Anna Seva Hyderabad as a supporter of contributing back to the society. Mayaa SH’s choices have led her to women’s empowerment and suicide prevention through her writings, advocacy, involvement in social initiatives, and provision of counseling and motivational support.
Initiatives for Women’s Empowerment:
Mayaa SH is deeply involved in various initiatives aimed at empowering women. Her work spans multiple areas, including writing, advocacy, community engagement, and educational initiatives.
1. Promoting Self-Belief and Overcoming Societal Barriers:
Mayaa SH’s self-help books and writings consistently emphasize the importance of self-belief among women. She encourages women to recognize their inner talents and capabilities, fostering a sense of empowerment to overcome societal barriers. She believes that empowering women is essential for their personal growth and the overall development of families, communities, and nations.
2. Addressing Social Issues and Advocating for Women’s Rights:
Mayaa SH’s writings often reflect the struggles faced by women in society and aim to inspire them to overcome societal barriers. She fearlessly tackles social issues, portraying the triumphs and struggles of women, and encouraging readers to challenge societal norms. Her works provide insights into the experiences of women in India and beyond, inspiring people to embrace their voices, pursue their dreams, and advocate for gender equality.
3. Community Engagement and Support:
Mayaa SH actively engages with communities to promote awareness about mental health issues and support marginalized groups. She participates in events that serve as fundraisers for cancer patients, physically disabled individuals, and children with autism, showcasing her commitment to helping all people regardless of their circumstances.
4. Education and Awareness:
Mayaa SH’s work includes promoting education and awareness about gender equality and women’s empowerment. She emphasizes the importance of creating environments where individuals can share their experiences without fear of judgment, fostering a sense of belonging among readers.
5. Addressing Mental Health:
Mayaa SH addresses mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety in her writings. She normalizes conversations around mental health, encouraging readers to prioritize their well-being and seek support when needed.
6. Promoting Economic Empowerment:
Mayaa SH’s work aligns with the broader goal of women’s economic empowerment. She recognizes the importance of women’s full participation in the workforce for economic growth and social development.
7. Supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development:
Mayaa SH’s work is positioned within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly concerning gender equality. She aims to contribute to the realization of women’s rights and empowerment, which are essential for achieving sustainable development goals.
8. Mentorship and Guidance:
Mayaa SH provides mentorship and guidance through her writings, motivational podcasts, and work. She aims to empower readers with the tools they need for personal growth and resilience.
9. Initiatives for Youth Development:
Mayaa SH is involved in projects focused on youth-led development to empower individuals for work, aiming to connect with over a million youths.
10. Healthcare and Training:
Mayaa SH supports initiatives to provide free treatment to women at hospitals, covering various needs from childbirth to end-of-life care. She also supports training programs like handicraft work, yoga, and stitching classes to empower women and provide free medical treatments.
Mayaa SH’s journey towards women’s empowerment was not a pre-determined path, but rather a gradual evolution shaped by her interactions with the world and a growing awareness of the challenges women face. One of the primary influences was her observation of the discrimination and exploitation faced by women in various sectors of society. She recognized the systemic nature of these issues, which fueled her desire to advocate for change. She has stated that she increasingly found that amongst the condemned, women were left far behind, and amongst the poorer, women were more economically exploited. This realization, coupled with deep observations and experiences, solidified her commitment to feminism and women’s rights.
Mayaa SH’s work also reflects a deep understanding of the cycle of abuse and the impact of domestic violence on women. She has provided shelter, counseling, and a 24-hour hotline for people affected by domestic violence, free of cost. This direct involvement in supporting survivors of abuse demonstrates her commitment to addressing the root causes of inequality and providing practical assistance to those in need. Her work is also influenced by her understanding of the importance of mental health and well-being. She has actively worked to destigmatize mental health challenges, particularly among women and marginalized communities. This focus on mental health reflects her holistic approach to women’s empowerment, recognizing that women’s well-being is essential for their overall empowerment.
In addition to these direct influences, Mayaa SH’s commitment is also shaped by her broader vision for society. She believes in a world where women and men enjoy equal opportunities, outcomes, rights, and responsibilities in all aspects of life. This vision drives her advocacy efforts and inspires her to work towards a more just and equitable society.
In summary, Mayaa SH’s commitment to women’s empowerment is influenced by her observations of societal inequalities, personal experiences, her understanding of the cycle of abuse, her focus on mental health, and her broader vision for a just and equitable society.
Mayaa SH’s relationship with the women she works with has not come with professional distance or detachment. Her choices have been made with a calculus that included the wider community of women and their political liberation. She viewed the writing as a necessary companion to start a conversation that could then be addressed through policy, legal support, and economic agency.
There is no word like “Compromise” and “Despair” in the dictionary of life of Mayaa SH, if so All hope for others will be lost. Mayaa SH’s approach is client-based, trauma-informed, and trauma-sensitive. She offers free counseling and advocacy services, including a 24-hour hotline, free of cost, demonstrating her commitment to providing direct support to women in need. Her focus on self-help and empowerment equips women with the skills to regain control of their lives and embark on their healing journey. In words of Mayaa “I was so public. There was a great thing at stake for me. The price I’ve paid is worth it.”
Mayaa SH’s vision is dedicated to social change through education, service collaboration, and institutional advocacy. She believes in the right of all people to violence-free lives and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. In essence, Mayaa SH’s accessibility is rooted in her comprehensive understanding of women’s issues, her commitment to providing direct support, and her dedication to challenging patriarchal structures. Indeed, the price has been steep. But the architecture she has built — of resistance, of reform, of a future where the law can serve the most vulnerable — remains standing. Her work demonstrates sustained contributions to women’s empowerment, literature, and social reform, aligning with the criteria of making a significant contribution to society. Mayaa SH’s “Lifetime Achievement Award” is a true testimony for her significant and sustained contributions to women’s rights, literature, and social reform, demonstrating exceptional leadership and making a lasting impact on society.
