I must say this is the most inspiring story of an amazing girl called Babi, who stands up for the truth at all times, walks away from cowardice of her own family and even her lover who shamelessly refuses to marry her after getting her pregnant. She raises her child entirely on her own. What Babi, a single mother, faces in the orthodox old fashioned pompous male dominated society, and how she struggles at all times for standing firm with her beliefs in truth is an inspiring experience in itself. Idealistic people often suffer in the society, which isn’t anything new, nonetheless the way VaPu Kale has illustrated it is truly incredible. Babi never compromises her dignity and self-respect, and walks her path all alone (whence comes the title “Hi Vat Ekatichi.”) VaPu mentions that Babi’s actual name is Vidya, which is short for Vidyullata, the divine Lightning that dances fearlessly in the sky with her free will, illuminating the Universe. Does Babi win her battles with her determination and strength? Or does the male-dominated traditional Indian society succeed in suppressing her will to stand up for truth and her self-respect? It’s worth reading in VaPu Kale’s one of the best creations.
On a somewhat personal note, this is the book that had made great impressions on my mind during my early youth. It made me realize, and firmly believe that no matter whether you have to walk alone all your life (as almost everyone does), you still must follow the path of truth at all times. Only Truth can set you free, and only Truth liberates you.
The most positive message I learn from Babi’s life is that no person and no relationship are worth compromising your dignity and self-respect.
Hats off to VaPu Kale for creating such a masterpiece.