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By contrast, women in India have to work much harder than their female counterparts in Western countries, to stand their ground in their daily ongoing struggle for recognition and equality
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Yet there are some, who overcome insurmountable odds and become winners as they pursue their dreams
Despite the rapid strides taken to empower women through education and the dismantling of many outdated societal norms, the perceived stereotype about the Indian woman continues to remain more or less the same – submissive, pliant, docile and meek.
That’s why in the midst of this archaic backwardness, women like Rajani Pandit throw refreshing light, hope and inspiration for the women of tomorrow.
With over four years of experience in this line of work, Rajani Pandit is hailed as India’s first lady private detective, solving crimes, like tracking cheating spouses in hotels to infiltrating political campaigns and uncovering corporate scams.
Nowadays much of her work hinges on technology. “Aadhi investigation social media pe hoti hai,” (Half of the investigation is done over social media) she admits. And she is quite adept at using tools like spy cameras in teddy bears, pens, buttons. Intelligence gathering on political party leaders also forms part of her work to be used in campaigns against rival candidates.
Recounting incidents related to a particular incident of fake and duplicate goods, Ms Pandit said she was able to successfully expose a massive counterfeit goods racket where fake branded products were flooding the market.
By tracking the fake supply chain from shops to distributors, she helped companies act on real-time intel and put an end to the racket.
Despite her confrontation with the dark and seamy side of life on a daily basis, Ms Pandit finds fulfilment in helping others, in real change. On many an occasion her intel has proved invaluable in solving several police cases
But life is not without its challenges as well. She recalls an intense legal battle over her book, which was pirated without her knowledge. And had to face threats, intimidation, and even a planned mob attack from the culprits in court.
But Ms Pandit never loses sight of the human element. Whether it’s guiding a rebellious teen or confronting a lying spouse, she’s acutely aware of the impact truth can have.
In recent times her life has attracted the attention of filmmakers. Talks are underway for a web series based on her experiences. But she is quick to point out that “in a TV serial things may look adventurous and thrilling, but being a detective in the real world is a tough job, not without risks and dangers”.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Pravasi Samwad. Pravasi Samwad is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented.
