“I don’t feel scared at the police station anymore. I pull the chair, sit with confidence, and speak for myself.”
These words belong to Khushda Khatoon — a woman who chose courage and determination over defeat during the toughest phase of her life.
Coming from a small village in Sitamarhi, Khushda’s journey to building her identity in the streets of Patna is a story of struggle, courage, and self-reliance.
Her world collapsed when her husband passed away unexpectedly. She was left with the responsibility of raising her children, running the household, and facing constant taunts from society. Many advised her to remarry, telling her that a single woman could not manage life on her own. But Khushda decided to prove them wrong through her work and inner strength.
It was during this difficult time that she met Savita Madam from EVA Foundation, who connected her with the Parwaz Women Network. That moment became a turning point in her life. She began going into the field, spreading awareness among women about their rights, and slowly started establishing herself as a community leader.
At the same time, Khushda focused on empowering herself. She completed her 10th and 12th grades and even started attending Hindi, English, and Urdu classes. Every day she walked 4 kilometers to attend these classes, but her determination never let the distance feel like a burden. She raised and educated her children on her own and even took responsibility for her nephew’s education.
In 2022, EVA Foundation set up a Women’s Skill Training Centre in her village, the first of its kind in the area. Khushda was appointed as the sewing instructor. In just four years, she has trained more than 150 young girls. Many of them, inspired by her, have started their own small businesses and become financially independent. For Khushda, this was not just about teaching a skill — it was about restoring dignity and building self-reliance.
She didn’t stop there. Khushda went door-to-door, encouraging girls to join the centre. Alongside sewing, the centre also created awareness about women’s legal rights. For her, this centre was not just an institution, but the turning point of her life where she began shaping her identity.
Today, when injustice or discrimination happens in her village, Khushda does not stay silent. She raises her voice, goes to the police station, and stands with the victims until they get justice. The young girls in her group now proudly call her their leader.
Khushda’s story is not just her own — it is the story of hundreds of women who draw strength and inspiration from her. She proves that no matter how difficult life gets, with courage, a new beginning is always possible.
Today, Khushda Khatoon is no longer just a name — she is a symbol of change and hope.