Resilience and Advocacy: A Glimpse into Lakshmi Agarwal's Inspiring Journey

I recently had the privilege of attending the Open Ceiling Women's Leadership Conclave at the exquisite DoubleTree by Hilton in Goa, held from November 24th to 26th, 2023. One of the most impactful moments of the event was meeting Lakshmi Agarwal, the acid attack survivor whose resilience and advocacy are truly inspiring.

In a room filled with corporate women leaders, Lakshmi spoke passionately in Hindi, showcasing a remarkable level of confidence and comfort. Her unapologetic demeanor highlighted her strength, serving as a powerful message for women who might be holding themselves back due to societal judgments.

Having watched "Chhapaak," read her stories, and followed her journey, I was captivated by her live narration. Lakshmi is not just a survivor; she is an incredible storyteller, weaving emotions into every word.

What struck me most was her refusal to seek sympathy. Instead, she directed her energy towards addressing the root cause of her situation — the easy availability of acid in retail shops. Lakshmi took a bold step by filing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to urge the courts to pass legislation restricting the sale of acid. Her motive was clear: preventing another unsuspecting victim from enduring the horrors of an acid attack.

Lakshmi Agarwal's story is a testament to the power of resilience, turning adversity into a platform for advocacy and change. Her courage to speak up and challenge the status quo is not just empowering for survivors but resonates with anyone facing challenges.

In a world that often fixates on appearances, Lakshmi stands tall, breaking through stereotypes and inspiring others to do the same. Her story is a reminder that true leadership goes beyond titles and positions — it's about making a difference, challenging injustices, and leaving a lasting impact on the world.

Lakshmi's journey encourages us all to embrace our authenticity, confront societal norms, and be the change we wish to see. Her advocacy work not only transforms her own narrative but has the potential to reshape the lives of countless others. As we celebrate women's leadership, let Lakshmi Agarwal's story be a beacon of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination.

Shanti Sharma

Founder | Author | Leadership, Executive and Team Coach | Facilitator | Mentor Coach