Manasi Pradhan

Manasi Pradhan, born on October fourth, nineteen sixty-two, is a prominent Indian writer, poet, and human rights defender. She is widely recognized for her unwavering commitment to women's rights and is the founder of the Honour for Women National Campaign, a significant movement aimed at eradicating violence against women in India. Her impactful work has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Rani Laskhmibai Stree Shakti Puraskar in two thousand fourteen, awarded by the President of India.

In addition to her role as a campaigner, Pradhan has co-received the 'Outstanding Women Award' in two thousand eleven alongside Mary Prema Pierick, the global head of the Missionaries of Charity. Her influence extends beyond national borders, as she has been featured in various international publications and organizations. In two thousand sixteen, Bustle, a New York-based platform, recognized her as one of the twenty most inspiring feminist authors and activists, while in two thousand seventeen, Welker Media Inc. named her among the twelve most powerful feminist change-makers.

Pradhan's contributions to women's empowerment are further exemplified by her founding of initiatives such as Nirbhaya Vahini, Nirbhaya Samaroh, and OYSS Women. She has also served on the panel of the Central Board of Film Certification in India and the Inquiry Committee of the National Commission for Women, showcasing her dedication to advocating for women's rights through various platforms.

Born into a humble family in a remote village in Odisha, Pradhan overcame significant challenges to pursue her education. She defied societal norms by walking fifteen kilometers daily through hilly terrain to attend the only high school in her region, ultimately becoming the first woman to matriculate from her village and the first woman law graduate in her area. Her inspiring life story has been documented in films in the United States and Israel, highlighting her remarkable journey and the impact she continues to make.