You Are More Powerful Than You Know! - Sudha Awasty

“I got married when I was 16 because my Dad believed that girls are a burden and marrying them off early was the right decision. I had to leave my education in between to handle the responsibilities of my marriage.

At my in-law’s place, I had to endure a lot. My mother-in-law was quite uptight. She fancied the age-old thought process which considers women to be less than men. She asked to me speak less and not go out. My life was limited to the kitchen and my bedroom. My husband, on the other hand, was a drunkard. He used to fight with me, scold me and even beat me. Even during my pregnancy, I wasn’t at peace. After my mother-in-law expired, my Jethani took her place and tormented me just like her. A time came, where I couldn’t take it anymore, and I moved out of that place, leaving my children behind because I knew I cannot provide for them unless I am established.

My family didn’t support this decision because by this time, my marriage had already completed 20 years. In all these years, I hadn’t voiced my issue before them even once. Thus, for them, to believe me, was quite a challenge.

I went to Delhi, did a makeup course and joined “Looks”. While I was making ends meet in Delhi, my in-laws were assuming that I had an affair, hence, I took off to Delhi. After some months, my daughter started longing for me so I had to head back. I took my children and came back to my Dad’s place. While I was there, Dad suggested me to give the marriage another chance for the kids’ sake. I couldn’t say no to him and decided to give it another shot.

But, again, the same feuds began happening. Even, my Dad and Mom came down to talk to my husband, but, he decided upon ending the marriage. With a heavy heart, my parents, my kids and I left. We even asked the kids who do they want to live with. But, just while we were about to board our train, my husband came, apologized and took us back.

Since then, all four of us are living together without any fights and violence. My husband even appreciates my job. Today, despite all my adversities, I am an independent woman who overcame her hurdles, received the “Popular Queen of Universe” title from IAWA and is ready to take challenges head on with her two kids by her side.” – Sudha Awasty.