‘Ananya,’ a day-long National Seminar for college girls with the theme ‘Empowering the Women, Develop the Nation,’ organised by Ramakrishna Institute of Moral and Spiritual Education (RIMSE) in commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of  Sister Nivedita, began at Yajnavalkya Auditorium in RIMSE campus, Yadavagiri, this morning.

Speaking after inaugurating the event, Ashwini Angadi, a visually challenged achiever and National facilitator for young voices, stressed on the need for leading a life of service and sacrifice.

Calling upon women to develop determination and self-confidence for facing the challenges that may come up in life, she said that it was equally important for everyone to accept pleasures and problems in life alike.

Asserting that one must be proud for being a woman, she said that being a woman was God’s gift and every woman needs to realise her inner self in meeting the challenges.

Recalling her childhood days, Ashwini said though she was born with a sight impairment, she always wanted to be independent. “I am proud to be a ‘mother’ of 30 specially-abled children who are being taken care of at the Centre run by me in Bengaluru” she said.

Underlining the need for the country to transform its colossal women force into an effective human resource, Ashwini opined that this was possible only through women empowerment.

Swami Atmajnanandaji, President of Ramakrishna Ashrama, Mysuru, presided. Swami Maheshatmananda, RIMSE Correspondent, RIMSE Principal G. Chandrashekar, Bengaluru Bhavatarini Ashram’s Vivekamayi Mataji and others were present.

More than 100 girl students from different colleges across the city are taking part in the event that features seminars in which successful women entrepreneurs will share their views and experiences, documentaries, interactions etc.