Hand That Rocks the Cradle Rules the World

• 04 Feb 2023

"The greatest strength of a mother is her unwavering love and sacrifice for her children."

- Mahatma Gandhi

A mother plays a vital role in shaping society by influencing the development of future generations. Through her interactions with her children, a mother can instill values such as compassion, empathy, and responsibility, which can help to create a more harmonious and inclusive society.

One of the most significant ways a mother impacts society is through her role in raising and educating her children. She is responsible for instilling moral values and teaching her children how to interact with others in a respectful and responsible manner. She can also act as a role model, showing her children how to be a responsible and caring member of society.

Shivaji Bhonsle, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was a Maratha warrior king and the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India in the 17^th century. It is believed that Shivaji's mother, Jijabai, played a significant role in his upbringing and development. Jijabai was a devout Hindu and instilled in Shivaji a strong sense of religious and nationalistic pride. She also taught him about the history and culture of the Marathas, which helped shape his vision for an independent and powerful Maratha kingdom. Jijabai's teachings and guidance were believed to have had a great impact on Shivaji's character and his future actions as a leader. He is considered as one of the most influential figures in the history of India and an important figure in the resistance against the Mughal Empire. It is said that Jijabai was the main inspiration for Shivaji to become a great leader, warrior and a king.

A mother can indeed have a significant impact on society beyond just raising her own child. Mothers can use the skills, values and knowledge acquired through their experiences as mothers to lead and shape society in many ways. They can be active members of their communities, volunteering and participating in social or political activities that promote positive change. For example, a mother can become an advocate for education, healthcare, or child welfare, and work to improve these areas for the benefit of all families in her community. Mothers can also enter the workforce and lead in various sectors, such as business, politics, or non-profit organizations. They can use their leadership skills to bring about change in their workplace and industry, promoting policies that support families, education, and work-life balance.

Additionally, mothers can also use their influence to raise awareness about important social issues and to promote equality and social justice. Many mothers have become activists and leaders in movements that address a wide range of issues, such as civil rights, gender equality, and environmental conservation.

Jhansi Ki Rani, also known as Rani Lakshmi Bai, was a queen of the Maratha-ruled princely state of Jhansi in North India during the mid-19^th century. She is remembered for her courage and leadership during the Revolt of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence. Rani Lakshmi Bai was a mother of a child, but she was also the ruler of the kingdom of Jhansi. She was a powerful and influential leader who fought for the rights of her people and the independence of India from British colonial rule. Her story is an inspiration for many, and she is remembered as one of the leading figures in Indian history.

Indira Gandhi was a mother and a leader who played a significant role in shaping the history of India. She served as the Prime Minister of India for three consecutive terms from 1966 to 1977, and then again from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. She served in various government positions before becoming Prime Minister, including as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting. She nationalized banks and key industries, which helped to increase economic growth and reduce poverty. She also initiated the Green Revolution, which led to a significant increase in food production and agricultural productivity. Indira Gandhi also played a key role in foreign policy, and was instrumental in the creation of Bangladesh.

"God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers."

-Rabindranath Tagore

Indira Gandhi, played a significant role in shaping the political career of her son, Rajiv Gandhi. He eventually became the Prime Minister of India in 1984. Like his mother, Rajiv Gandhi was known for his charismatic leadership style and strong political acumen. Despite his untimely death, Rajiv Gandhi is still remembered as one of India's most influential leaders and a key figure in modern Indian politics.

Marie Curie, a Polish-born physicist and chemist, who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the first person to win two Nobel Prizes in different fields. She was also a mother of two daughters.

Mother Teresa was a Catholic nun who became famous for her humanitarian work, particularly her work serving the poor and sick in India. She moved to India in 1929 and began working with the poor and sick in Calcutta (now Kolkata). She started the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation dedicated to serving the poor and suffering.

Mother Teresa's work focused on serving the poorest of the poor, including those who were dying of diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy. She also established orphanages, schools, and clinics to serve the needs of the poorest communities in India. Her selfless and compassionate work earned her numerous awards and honors, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Her life and teachings continue to inspire many people around the world to work for the welfare of the poor and less privileged.

In conclusion, mothers play a vital role in shaping the future of society and the example of Queen Elizabeth I and Jhansi ki Rani, Mother Teresa, Marie Curie and several others are a testament to the strength, intelligence and capability of mothers. They prove that a mother is not a weak entity, but rather a powerful and capable leader who can play a decisive role in shaping the future of society.

"A mother's love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible."

-Marion C. Garretty